Effects of Heavy-load Resistance Training With and Without Blood Flow Restriction Therapy on Quadriceps Muscle Strength and Endurance in Athletes

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of heavy-load resistance training (HLRT) with and without blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy on muscle strength and endurance in athletes aged 18 to 35. This single-blinded randomized controlled trial compares two training methods to understand how adding BFR influences muscle performance and physical activity levels in active individuals participating in sports regularly. Participants are divided into two groups: one performs HLRT combined with BFR and the other performs HLRT alone without BFR. Both groups follow the same exercise program involving back squats, leg press, and bench press at 70-80% of their one-repetition maximum (1RM), training three times per week for four weeks. BFR is applied using pneumatic cuffs inflated to 50% of limb occlusion pressure during working sets but deflated during rest periods. Training loads increase progressively based on participants' performance. During the study, participants undergo assessments at baseline and after four weeks measuring their 1RM strength for back squat and bench press, muscular endurance through a maximum repetition squat test and a one-minute push-up test, and physical activity levels via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The trial lasts about eight weeks and includes monitoring of exercise performance, adherence, and safety throughout the intervention period.

Heavy-load Resistance Training With and Without Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Athletes