Effect of moderate intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction on muscle strength and girth in young adults –a randomized control trial

Abstract

Abstract Objectives To examine the effects of moderate intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction on muscle strength and forearm girth. Methods Total of 39 students enrolled in this study were divided into three groups that is group A (control group), group B and group C. Group A performed exercise training without restrictive pressure, group B & C performed exercise training with 50 and 75 mmHg respectively. Both the outcome measures were evaluated on day 1 and day 12th with the help of digital dynamometer and measuring tape. Results Repeated measure ANOVA with Post hoc analysis was done using SPSS software version 20. The result of the study showed significant (p≤0.05) within subject improvement in muscle strength and muscle girth in all the three groups. However, significant improvement in muscle strength was found in between group analysis (p≤0.05). Conclusions The results of the study can be concluded as the partial blood flow restriction (50 mmHg) with moderate intensity resistance training resulted in greater handgrip strength than the other two groups. No difference was found in forearm girth among the three groups, however within the group difference was found. Highlights - The High Resistance training improves muscle strength and endurance but it also produces high load on joints. In an attempt to find an alternative to conventional high resistance training, blood flow restriction is combined with resistance training.- But there is lack of literature regarding the optimal vascular occlusion pressure for muscle strength and hypertrophy.- This study explores the effect of moderate intensity training with Blood Flow restriction at different pressures (0, 50, 75 mmHg) and to find the ideal pain free cuff pressure for attaining good muscle strength and hypertrophy.