BFR Training for Fitness
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if cycling with blood flow restriction (BFR) can improve leg strength, shoulder strength, and overall fitness. Researchers will divide participants into two groups: one group will cycle with BFR bands on their thighs, while the other group will cycle without them. The trial suits healthy adults without current injuries or recent surgeries on their lower or upper body. Participants will cycle and perform specific shoulder exercises to measure the effects. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to innovative fitness research and potentially enhance their physical health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that using blood flow restriction (BFR) during cycling is generally safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found that BFR can intensify workouts by increasing muscle stress. Despite this, BFR usually doesn't cause serious problems.
In past trials, participants used BFR cuffs while cycling several times a week without major issues. Some even experienced less strain on their heart and lungs compared to regular workouts. Overall, BFR is considered a safe way to enhance exercise benefits without overworking the body.
While BFR can temporarily reduce blood flow and stress muscles, most evidence suggests it is well-tolerated, allowing most people to use it without experiencing serious side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) cycling technique because it introduces a novel way to enhance muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness. Unlike traditional cycling, which improves fitness through regular aerobic exercise, BFR cycling applies pressure to the limbs, limiting blood flow and tricking the body into building muscle more efficiently even at lower exercise intensities. This method could offer significant benefits for individuals who are unable to perform high-intensity workouts due to injury or other limitations. By combining BFR with cycling, the method aims to boost recovery and performance without the need for heavy weights or intense training sessions.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for improving leg press strength, rotator cuff strength, and VO2 peak?
Research has shown that blood flow restriction (BFR) training can improve muscle strength and endurance. One study found that using BFR while cycling strengthened and increased the endurance of thigh muscles after three weeks. Another study discovered that BFR interval training enhanced performance and reduced muscle fatigue. Overall, BFR training has demonstrated small to large improvements in strength, potentially benefiting those aiming to strengthen their legs and shoulder muscles. In this trial, participants in the BFR cycling arm will cycle with BFR applied, which may build muscle strength and boost exercise performance. Meanwhile, the cycling without BFR arm will perform the same exercises without BFR.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
JASON BRUMITT, PhD
Principal Investigator
George Fox University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants perform cycling with or without BFR and shoulder exercises for 6 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- BFR cycling
- Cycling without BFR
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
George Fox University
Lead Sponsor