Effects of low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction on the perceived exertion, muscular resistance and endurance in healthy young adults

Abstract

The objective was to verify the effect of low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction (LL + BFR) on the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). In addition, strength and muscular endurance were evaluated. 26 male subjects were divided into two groups: (a) low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction at 30% 1RM (one repetition maximum), and (b) high-load (HL) resistance training without blood flow restriction at 80% 1RM. The training lasted 8 weeks (three times a week) and consisted of elbow flexion and knee extensor exercises. RPE was assessed using the OMNI scale in sessions before and after training. The maximum dynamic force was evaluated using the 1RM test, and muscular endurance was assessed by the test of the number of repetitions at 60% 1RM. The RPE was higher in the pre-training session for elbow flexion exercise in the HL group as compared to the LL + BFR group (HL: 7.84 ± 1.25 LL: 6.34 ± 1.27; p < 0.05), besides being higher in the HL group in elbow flexion (HL: 8.61 ± 0.83 LL: 6.00 ± 1.53; p < 0.05) and knee extensor (HL: 8.38 ± 0.83 LL: 6.00 ± 1.89; p < 0.05) exercises in the post-training session when comparing the groups. Also in LL + BFR there was significant difference between moments in knee extensor (baseline: 8.30 ± 1.08 post: 6.00 ± 1.89; p < 0.05). There were strength gains in both groups, whereas they were greater for the HL group in the knee extensor exercise (p < 0.05). There were, in both groups, significant increase in muscular endurance (p < 0.05). Lastly, there was a negative correlation in strength with RPE in LL + BFR. In conclusion, the RPE reduced in LL + BFR resistance training compared to HL after 8 weeks of training. In addition, both methods were effective for increasing muscular strength and endurance.