Effects of resistance training with blood flow restriction on the body composition of postmenopausal women

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of low load resistance training with blood flow restriction (LLRT+BFR) on the body composition of postmenopausal women and to compare the results with the effects obtained from high load resistance training (HLRT). Methods: This is a randomized, open label, controlled trial with two parallel arms. Eighteen postmenopausal women (62,28 ± 5,07years), physically active and functionally independent, were randomly allocated into two groups: LLRT+BFR (n = 9) and HLRT (n = 9). Body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), appendicular muscle mass (AMM) and body fat percentage (BF%) were tested before, during and after 16 weeks of resistance training. The LLRT+BFR group performed four sets of 15 repetitions with 50% of the arterial occlusion pressure reduced to 50 mmHg in intervals between series with 30% of 1RM.The HLRT group performed three series of 10 repetitions with 70% of 1RM. Both groups performed the free squat exercise with bar twice a week. ANOVA of repeated measures with Bonferroni post hoc were used. Results: After 16 weeks, no significant differences (p>0,05) occurred in the body composition neither intra and nor between groups. Conclusion: Low load resistance training with blood flow restriction and high load is apparently ineffective in provide changes in body composition.