INCREASE MUSCULAR STRENGTH IN ADOLESCENTS WITH BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING

In this study the authors compared a back squat exercise for adolescents using low load BFR as compared to traditional weight lifting and found a greater increase in strength in the BFR group. They found greater strength gains in the adolescent group and point out that because there is reduced muscle damage, this may be a more tolerable form of strength training for youth.

They write:

“While both high-load traditional resistance training and low-load practical BFR resistance training can potentially increase muscular strength in adolescents, BFR may offer unique elements that could be appealing to teachers and coaches of this age group. High-load training typically induces some degree of muscle damage, which may cause short term muscular soreness (both acute and delayed) as well as diminished performance and function (27). Conversely, low-load BFR has been demonstrated to increase muscular strength without causing muscle damage. The present study is the first to indicate that low-load, practical BFR resistance training may also be an effective means for increasing muscular strength in adolescents.” – Luebbers PE1, Witte EV, Oshel JQ.