Blood Flow Restriction Training

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training is a technique that allows participants to make strength gains while lifting lighter loads. This is particularly useful to build greater muscle mass while limiting external loads and stress.

By applying the right amount of external pressure to an extremity through pressurized bands worn around the arms or legs, blood flow into and away from the muscles below the level of compression is restricted. This temporary low-oxygen environment for the muscles mimics the environment created in the body during high intensity exercise and increases protein synthesis in the muscle cells. This specifically affects the fast-twitch, anaerobic muscle fibers like those used in sprinting, jumping, and power activities.

Individuals participating in Elevate’s Strength & Conditioning Coaching appointments and who have performance training methods or health conditions limiting their ability to participate in higher intensity exercise (post-rehabilition, osteopenia/osteoporosis, deconditioning, sarcopenia, etc.) may be excellent candidates for BFR training with a BFR-certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist.

Individuals recovering from injury or limited by pain may benefit from BFR as part of their comprehensive treatment plan under the guidance of a BFR-certified physical therapist or occupational therapist, and should contact Mammoth Hospital’s rehabilitation department.