What is Blood Flow Restriction? What does it do?

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training, often known as occlusion training, is a resistance training technique employing specialised cuffs or wraps to partially limit blood flow to the muscles undergoing exertion (Batista et al., 2020). This unique approach enables individuals to reap muscle-building benefits with lighter weight loads compared to traditional high-intensity resistance training (Gavanda et al., 2020). Research indicates the efficacy of blood flow restriction training in promoting muscle growth and strength gains (Gavanda et al., 2020). While the debate regarding its superiority over traditional high-load training persists, numerous studies have underscored the positive impact of BFR training on muscle hypertrophy and strength enhancement (Clarkson and Hubal, 2002).

How does it do it? 

The crux of BFR training lies in its capacity to induce metabolic stress and cellular swelling within the muscle (Dos Santos et al., 2021). By applying controlled pressure to the limbs, BFR training restricts blood outflow while sustaining inflow (Mouser et al., 2017), leading to blood pooling within the muscle. This process triggers the release of growth factors and hormones conducive to muscle growth and adaptation (Slysz et al., 2016).

Measurement of blood flow restriction during training involves determining the individual’s limb occlusion pressure (LOP) (Kacin et al., 2015). Specialised devices can then apply a percentage of this pressure to the limb, ensuring personalised and safe application of pressure (Castle et al., 2023).

How does it improve my training and recovery?

BFR training acts as a catalyst for muscle growth by stimulating muscle fibres that might not be as effectively activated during traditional training (Lixandrão et al., 2019). The metabolic stress induced by BFR augments the release of hormones such as growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), fostering muscle development (da Silva et al., 2018). Moreover, BFR training enhances endurance and cardiovascular fitness owing to the heightened metabolic demands imposed on the muscles (Shimizu et al., 2016).

How often should I use it?

For optimal results, integrating BFR training a few times weekly is advisable. It's essential to allow at least one day of rest between sessions to facilitate muscle recovery (Garber et al., 2011). The frequency and duration of BFR sessions can be customised based on individual fitness levels and goals (Clarkson and Hubal, 2002).

Mad-UP

The MAD-UP PRO® is the new offering of BFR for Perform Better and marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training, setting a new standard with its personalised measurement system and adaptable compression levels. This technology, powered by the patented MAD-UP® system, meticulously analyses the user's physiological characteristics, ensuring optimal and secure treatment.

How is Mad-UP different?

MAD-UP PRO® stands out for its ability to regulate pressure levels in real-time, dynamically adjusting to the user's movements to prioritise comfort and safety.

Equipped with dual pathways, MAD-UP PRO® offers precise pressure management for each limb individually. The journey towards a safe and optimised BFR approach begins with the calculation of a personalised Limb Occlusion Pressure (LOP). As muscles engage and contract, the pressure level, determined by the LOP, undergoes continuous variation. MAD-UP technology expertly modulates this pressure with every muscle contraction, ensuring consistent treatment at the chosen occlusion percentage throughout the session, regardless of the user's activity or position.

The foundation of MAD-UP PRO® lies in its commitment to safety and efficacy through comprehensive physiological analysis. By determining the ideal pressure for each user's limb, the device facilitates a practice that is not only safe but also comfortable and efficient. Moreover, the availability of regulation pressure tubing in various sizes and cuff widths designed for maximum comfort and safety underscores MAD-UP PRO®'s dedication to user well-being. Easy-to-disinfect accessory materials further enhance the device's hygiene and usability.

Who should use Mad-UP?

Inclusivity is at the core of MAD-UP's mission, reflected in regularly updated work protocols integrated into the system to cater to diverse users. The patented technology of MAD-UP PRO® empowers users to fine-tune the pressure applied to their limb(s) via the cuffs, ensuring a tailored and effective experience. Throughout the session, pressure regulation occurs in real-time, synchronised with movement and muscular contraction. The user's physiological evolution remains under continuous analysis and consideration, further enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Is Mad-UP easy to use?

Despite its advanced capabilities, MAD-UP PRO® remains remarkably intuitive to use, providing real-time visual and audio feedback via its touchscreen display. This seamless integration of technology and user experience exemplifies MAD-UP PRO®'s commitment to excellence in BFR training, ushering in a new era of personalised and optimised recovery practices.

References 

• Batista, M. M., Silva, D. S. G. and Bento, P. C. B. (2020). Effects of blood flow restriction training on strength, muscle mass and physical function in older individuals—systematic review and meta-analysis. Phys Occup Ther Geriatr, 38 (4), pg. 400 – 417.
• Castle, J. P., Tramer, J. S., Turner, E. H. G., Cotter, D., McGee A, Abbas MJ, Gasparro MA, Lynch TS, Moutzouros V.J. (2023) Survey of blood flow restriction therapy for rehabilitation in Sports Medicine patients. Orthop. 38: pg. 47-52.
• Clarkson, P. M., Hubal, M. J. (2002). Exercise-induced muscle damage in humans. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 81 (11 Suppl), S52–69.
• da Silva, J. C. G., Aniceto, R. R., Oliota-Ribeiro, L. S., Neto, G. R., Leandro, L. S., Cirilo-Sousa M. S. (2018). Mood effects of blood flow restriction resistance exercises among basketball players. Percept Mot Skills. 125 (4): pg. 788-801.
• Dos Santos, L. P, Santo, R. C. E., Ramis, T. R., Portes, J. K. S., Chakr, R. M. S., Xavier, R. M. (2021) The effects of resistance training with blood flow restriction on muscle strength, muscle hypertrophy and functionality in patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review with meta-analysis. PLoS ONE. 16 (11), e0259574.
• Gavanda, S., Isenmann, E., Schlöder, Y., Roth, R., Freiwald, J., Schiffer, T., Geisler, S. and Behringer, M. (2020). Low-intensity blood flow restriction calf muscle training leads to similar functional and structural adaptations than conventional low-load strength training: A randomized controlled trial. PloS one, 15 (6), e0235377.
• Kacin, A., Rosenblatt, B., Žargi, T. G., Biswas, A. (2015). Safety considerations with blood flow restricted resistance training. Ann Kinesiol. 6 (1), pg. 3–26.
• Lixandrão, M. E., Roschel, H., Ugrinowitsch, C., Miquelini, M., Alvarez, I. F. and Libardi, C. A. (2019). Blood-flow restriction resistance exercise promotes lower pain and ratings of perceived exertion compared with either high- or low-intensity resistance exercise performed to muscular failure. J Sport Rehabil. 28 (7): pg. 706-710.
• Mouser, J. G, Dankel, S. J., Jessee, M. B., Mattocks, K. T., Buckner, S. L., Counts, B. R. et al. (2017). A tale of three cuffs: the hemodynamics of blood flow restriction. Eur J Appl Physiol. 117 (7), pg. 1493–1499.
• Shimizu, R., Hotta, K., Yamamoto, S., Matsumoto, T., Kamiya, K., Kato, M., Hamazaki, N., Kamekawa, D., Akiyama, A., Kamada, Y., Tanaka, S. and Masuda, T. (2016). Low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction improves vascular endothelial function and peripheral blood circulation in healthy elderly people. Eur J Appl Physiol. 116 (4): pg. 749-57.
• Slysz, J., Stultz, J., Burr, J. F. (2016). The efficacy of blood flow restricted exercise: a systematic review meta-analysis. J Sci Med Sport. 19 (8), pg. 669-675.

Part 4 of our Cutting-Edge Recovery: Exploring Advanced Techniques series is here! More information on Mad-UP products can be found here.