Key result
Low-load blood flow restriction training improved dynamic plantar flexion strength (43.6% vs 43.5%) and induced similar regional Achilles tendon hypertrophy (+5.2% area) as high-load training.
Why the study?
Although low-load blood flow restriction training elicits an anabolic response in tendinous tissue, its induced Achilles tendon hypertrophic pattern compared to conventional high-load resistance training was unknown.
Does low-load blood flow restriction training improve Achilles tendon morphology and strength similarly to high-load resistance training in male participants?
RCT (n=40)
Concealed allocation
Does low-load blood flow restriction training improve Achilles tendon morphology and strength similarly to high-load resistance training in male participants?
Absolute Event Rate: 43.6% vs 43.5%
Low-load blood flow restriction training induces similar regional Achilles tendon hypertrophy and strength gains as conventional high-load resistance training.
Authors
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Offers viable option for load-limited patients; extends RCT evidence on Achilles tendon adaptations.
Centner et al. (2023) reported an RCT. Low-load blood flow restriction (LL-BFR) training vs. High-load (HL) resistance training (70-85% 1RM) was evaluated on Dynamic plantar flexion strength. Low-load blood flow restriction training improved dynamic plantar flexion strength (43.6% vs 43.5%) and induced similar regional Achilles tendon hypertrophy (+5.2% area) as high-load training.
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