BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION

Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a method used during exercise at low loads of around 20–50% of a repetition maximum, or at a low-moderate intensity aerobic exercise. BFR involves placing an occlusion cuff to the most proximal portion of the arms or legs. This restricts venous return of the working muscles in order to achieve the same benefits as high-load exercise. The mechanisms behind BFR is that it leads to higher metabolic stress, enhanced muscle contractions, and low oxygen delivery to the exercising muscle favoring type-II muscle fiber recruitment.