The effects of blood flow restriction resistance training on indices of delayed onset muscle soreness and peak power

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction (LL + BFR) attenuated delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) under some conditions. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study examined the effects of reciprocal concentric-only elbow flexion-extension muscle actions at 30% of peak torque on indices of DOMS. METHODS: Thirty untrained women (mean ± SD; 22 ± 2.4 years) were randomly assigned to 6 training days of LL + BFR (n= 10), low-load non-BFR (LL) (n= 10), or control (n= 10). Participants completed 4 sets (1 × 30, 3 × 15) of submaximal (30% of peak torque), unilateral, isokinetic (120∘s-1) muscle actions. Indices of DOMS including peak power, resting elbow joint angle (ROM), perceived muscle soreness (VAS), and pain pressure threshold (PPT) were assessed. RESULTS: There were no changes in peak power, ROM, or VAS. There was a significant interaction for PPT. Follow-up analyses indicated PPT increased for the LL + BFR condition (Day 5 > Day 2), but did not decrease below baseline. The results of the present study indicated LL + BFR and LL did not induce DOMS for the elbow extensors in previously untrained women. CONCLUSION: These findings suggested LL + BFR and LL concentric-only resistance training could be an effective training modality to elicit muscular adaptation without inducing DOMS.