Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Non-Linear Periodization Strength Training on Muscle Strength and Function in Elite Athletes

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of resistance exercise with intermittent blood flow restriction (BFR) on the muscle thickness, maximal strength, and isokinetic muscular function (strength, power, endurance) in high school field hockey athletes.METHODS: The BFR group (n=10, 16.1±1.1 years, 172.8±3.9 cm, 66.2±3.9 kg) and the control (CON) group (n=10, 16.60±1.17 years, 172.5±2.3 cm, 65.7±2.9 kg) participated in the same nonlinear periodic training program, however different weight loading (%RM) was applied depending on whether or not BFR was applied. In this study, the systolic blood pressure was set as the blood flow compression strength, and a BFR prop belt was used. After the 8-week training period was over, the degree of improvement in body composition, 1 repetition maximum (1RM), and isokinetic muscle function among groups was compared to determine the effect of training by blood flow restriction.RESULTS: The cross-sectional area of the thighs of athletes who applied BFR was significantly increased than that of the CON (<i>p</i><.05). In the isokinetic results, athletes with BFR showed higher 1RM than the CON (<i>p</i><.05). but there were no differences in muscle power and endurance (<i>p</i>>.05). In the results of improving the muscle strength (1RM and 60º/sec) of the athletes who applied the BFR, there was no significant difference between the groups in muscle power and muscular endurance.CONCLUSIONS: Non-linear strength training with BFR might be considered to be an effective method for improving muscle hypertrophy and maximum strength of athletes. The muscle endurance and muscle power method once a week, which was not effective in improving the muscle power and muscular endurance of high school male hockey players.