Blood Flow Restriction TrainingNCT06406907
Effects of Short Duration Blood Flow Restriction Training on Musculoskeletal and Performance Outcomes
A study testing High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group, Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group and High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group in people with Blood Flow Restriction Training, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
Effects of short duration blood flow restriction training on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 30 years, men onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Blood Flow Restriction Training
- What is being tested?
- High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group, Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group and High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 68 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 2 Nov 2024to 8 Jul 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 30 years
- Men only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Sedentary males (< 2.5h/week physical activity) or < 300 METs per week (36)
- Age 18-30 years
- BMI between 18.5-29.9
- Free from any lower-limb pain or injury
- No previous experience with BFRT
- Ankle brachial index values between 0.9-1.4
Show all 9Show fewer
- Not doing regular strength training of lower limb in the past 6 months
- No strenuous physical activities 72h before and during the study period
- Non-smokers
Who cannot join
- Any injuries of the musculoskeletal system that could prevent the participants from training or testing
- Any use of medication and/or supplements (e.g., protein powder, vitamins, creatine, NSAIDs, etc.)
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Diabetes and hypertensive patients
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Effects of short duration blood flow restriction training on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes.
Read the detailed description
Often after 40 years of age due to decrease in physical activity, muscle strength and performance starts gradually declining. However, regular resistance training can decelerate age related decline in musculoskeletal system and it is considered a major contributing factor in optimizing health and longevity. The beneficial effects of resistance training include decreased resting blood pressure, improved lipid profiles, improved glucose metabolism, improved bone mineral density, decreased lower back pain, enhanced flexibility, increased resting metabolic rate, improved maximal aerobic capacity and alleviated symptoms of arthritis.
According to American College of Sports Medicine, at least loads >70% of an individual's one-repetition maximum (1RM) are required to maintain muscle mass and strength. Exercises done with heavy loads of more than >70% of individual 1RM are sometimes referred to traditional resistance training or high-load resistance training (HLRT). However, it is worth mentioning that HLRT may not be suitable for specific populations due to the excessive mechanical stress during exercises on joints and ligaments which may lead to injury. These populations may include novices, individuals recovering from an injury or suffering from chronic diseases, those with disabled limbs as well as the elderly who cannot endure the continual high mechanical stress caused by heavy resistance training.
Alternative training methods to HLRT exists that do not put excessive mechanical loads on the musculoskeletal system, yet can lead to increased muscle mass and strength. One such training method is called blood flow restriction training (BFRT).
In recent years, low load resistance training (< 40% 1RM) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) has gained much attention as a feasible alternative to HLRT for maintaining or improving muscle mass and strength.
BFR is usually accomplished by inflating a pneumatic cuff or specially designed elastic bands around the most proximal region of the upper and/or lower limbs. Training loads are usually between 20%-40% 1-RM, 75 repetitions per exercise (15- 30 repetitions per set) or sets to failure. During BFRT pressure is applied in such a way that only venous return is blocked while maintaining arterial inflow to the muscles. It causes hypoxia within the muscles. When exercise is performed with BFR, there is an increase in intramuscular pressure beneath the cuff, which further disturbs the blood flow.
Although the use of BFRT seems very enticing and a viable alternative to HLRT but the mechanisms underpinning the hypertrophic adaptations are yet to be fully determined. Over the years numerous theories have been put forth but general consensus of scientific community is that during BFRT, metabolic stress from vascular occlusion and mechanical tension from resistance training may lead to synergistic increases in muscle hypertrophy and strength. At a cellular level, metabolites accumulation like lactate and reactive oxygen species, hormonal differences, cell-to-cell signaling, cellular swelling, and intracellular signaling pathways have all been proposed.
Metabolites, which accumulate during exercise that are known mediators of muscular hypertrophy, are amplified by BFR's relative ischemic and hypoxic conditions. They are believed to induce earlier, peripherally mediated fatigue, resulting in greater motor unit recruitment, as suggested by the fact that BFRT has similar recruitment to that of HLRT. In addition, type II fast-twitch muscle fibers are activated during BFRT.
The benefits of BFRT may also be partially explained by the proliferation and activation of satellite cells (multipotent cells within muscle connective tissue responsible for muscle growth and regeneration) due to increased production of reactive oxygen species such as nitric oxide results from fluctuations in oxygen availability.
BFRT can be performed in either low frequency or high frequency. For low frequency, it is recommended to perform BFRT 2-3 times per week and the intervention lasts longer than three weeks. For high frequency, it is recommended to perform BFRT less than 3 weeks 1-2 times per day. High-frequency BFRT can be potentially useful for clinicians since the technique can provide positive physiological adaptations in short terms.
There are numerous studies conducted on short duration high frequency (<3 weeks intervention) BFRT. The duration of the intervention ranges between 1-3 weeks and frequency of training sessions ranges from 6-16 sessions per week to 24 sessions in 3 weeks. Short duration BFRT studies have positive effects on muscle strength, muscle size, performance, hormonal levels, inflammatory marks and satellite cells. However, there are still research gaps that needs to be addressed.
Difference between the effects of varied frequency short duration BFRT protocols i.e., high frequency vs low frequency on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes is still unclear. Furthermore, limited studies have been conducted on the effect of BFRT on muscles proximal to the BFR site. Often the studies have focused on chest and shoulder muscles but have reported conflicting results. One study assessed the effects of lower limb BFRT on trunk muscles (gluteus maximus, iliopsoas and lumber L4-5) however, it reported that BFR walk training does increase muscle mass in the trunk muscles.
To the best of our knowledge no study has assessed the effects of lower limb BFRT on abdominal muscles. Furthermore, research has shown that instability training can enhance abdominal muscles activation. However, effects of addition of instability during BFRT on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes are not known. Therefore, this study is designed to address some of the current research gaps that exists in BFRT protocols. This study will compare the effects of short duration BFRT protocols (high frequency vs low frequency) on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes. Furthermore, this study will try to understand the effects of addition of instability during BFRT on abdominal muscles.
- Conditions
- Blood Flow Restriction Training
- Being tested
- High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group, Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group, High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group, Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group, Control Group
- Keywords
- Blood flow restriction, Surface EMG, Reactive strength index, Abdominal muscles
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training GroupOther
Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM.
Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise.
Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training GroupOther
Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM.
Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise.
High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability GroupOther
Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs.
Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise.
Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability GroupOther
Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs.
Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise.
Control GroupOther
The subjects of this group performed squat exercise 6 days a week but without BFR. Pneumatic cuff were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms but were not inflated.
Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group | Experimental | Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM. Receives: Other: High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group |
| Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group | Experimental | Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM. Receives: Other: Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group |
| High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group | Experimental | Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs. Receives: Other: High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group |
| Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group | Experimental | Subjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs Receives: Other: Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group |
| Control Group | Sham comparator | The subjects of this group performed squat exercise 6 days a week but without BFR. Pneumatic cuff will be wrapped around the thigh of the subjects but it would not be inflated.
The subjects of this group performed squat exercise 6 days a week but without BFR. Pneumatic cuff were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms but were not inflated. Receives: Other: Control Group |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Thigh Muscles Ultrasound Assessment
Subject lying in supine position. 50% of thigh length was measured from ASIS to mid patella. Ultrasound measurements of muscle thickness of bilateral rectus femoris, and vastus intermedius were performed.
Measured: 2 weeks
Abdomen Muscles Ultrasound Assessment
Subject lying in supine position. The images of bilateral, transverse abdominis, internal oblique and external oblique were taken by placing the probe transversely in the mid-axillary line, between the subcostal line and the iliac crest 15 cm lateral to the umbilicus. For the rectus abdominis examination, the probe was placed transversely 3 cm lateral to the umbilicus.
Measured: 2 weeks
Thigh Muscles Strength Assessment
Subject sitting on a table unsupported. Knee in 75° flexion. Dynamometer was fixed with the table with the help of a strap the other end of the strap was fixed with subject's leg just above the ankle joint. Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Measured: 2 weeks
Abdominal Muscles Strength Assessment
Subject stood in a custom made frame. Knee slightly bent. Heels on the mark so it is standardized for all subjects. Knees and thighs secured and tightened with belt. Chest harness placed and connected to the dynamometer belt. Subject was positioned in 17.5° trunk flexion. Trunk angle checked with goniometer. Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Measured: 2 weeks
Thigh Muscles Electromyography Assessment
Subject sitting on a table unsupported. Knee in 75° flexion. For quadriceps muscles the electrodes were placed approximately half the distance between the knee and the iliac spine.Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Measured: 2 weeks
Abdominal Muscles Electromyography Assessment
Subject stood in a custom made frame. Knee slightly bent. Heels on the mark so it is standardized for all subjects. Knees and thighs secured and tightened with belt. Chest harness placed and connected to the dynamometer belt. Subject was positioned in 17.5° trunk flexion. For rectus abdominis the electrodes were placed 3 cm lateral to the umbilicus. For external oblique the electrodes were placed 15 cm lateral to the umbilicus. Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Measured: 2 weeks
Jump Assessment
Subjects were standing 2 meters away from the mobile stand. My jump 3 mobile app was used for assessment. For jump assessment the mobile was fixed on a stand and placed in front of the subject.
Measured: 2 weeks
Secondary outcomes (2)
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Assessment
Quadriceps palpated with two fingers on five different locations of bilateral legs: distal, middle, and proximal parts of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis muscles. The measurement locations recorded on transparent, acetate paper. Palpations done in a standing position and subjects familiarized to apply palpation pressures two times before the baseline measurements.
Measured: 2 weeks
Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale
Rating of perceived exertion scale was used to identify the patients' intensity of exercise. It is a numerical scale that ranges from 1 to 10, where 1 means "no exertion at all" and 10 means "maximal exertion."
Measured: 2 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted9 May 2024
- Study start2 Nov 2024
- Primary completion8 Jul 2025
- Study completion8 Jul 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Blood Flow Restriction TrainingStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Riphah International UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Basic science
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 68 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Asghar Khan, Study chair, asghar.khan@riphah.edu.pkWaqar Ahmed Awan, PhD, Study chair, Riphah International UniversitySaad Rauf, PhD*, Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06406907
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- REC/PhD/011104 Saad Rauf
- Status last verified
- Nov 2025
- First submitted
- 6 May 2024
- Last updated
- 24 Nov 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 24 Nov 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Short Duration Blood Flow Restriction Training on Musculoskeletal and Performance Outcomes
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06406907
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- REC/PhD/011104 Saad Rauf
- Conditions
- Blood Flow Restriction Training
- Keywords
- Blood flow restriction, Surface EMG, Reactive strength index, Abdominal muscles
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 68 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 2 Nov 2024 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 8 Jul 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 8 Jul 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 9 May 2024 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Effects of short duration blood flow restriction training on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes.
Detailed description
Often after 40 years of age due to decrease in physical activity, muscle strength and performance starts gradually declining. However, regular resistance training can decelerate age related decline in musculoskeletal system and it is considered a major contributing factor in optimizing health and longevity. The beneficial effects of resistance training include decreased resting blood pressure, improved lipid profiles, improved glucose metabolism, improved bone mineral density, decreased lower back pain, enhanced flexibility, increased resting metabolic rate, improved maximal aerobic capacity and alleviated symptoms of arthritis.
According to American College of Sports Medicine, at least loads >70% of an individual's one-repetition maximum (1RM) are required to maintain muscle mass and strength. Exercises done with heavy loads of more than >70% of individual 1RM are sometimes referred to traditional resistance training or high-load resistance training (HLRT). However, it is worth mentioning that HLRT may not be suitable for specific populations due to the excessive mechanical stress during exercises on joints and ligaments which may lead to injury. These populations may include novices, individuals recovering from an injury or suffering from chronic diseases, those with disabled limbs as well as the elderly who cannot endure the continual high mechanical stress caused by heavy resistance training.
Alternative training methods to HLRT exists that do not put excessive mechanical loads on the musculoskeletal system, yet can lead to increased muscle mass and strength. One such training method is called blood flow restriction training (BFRT).
In recent years, low load resistance training (< 40% 1RM) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) has gained much attention as a feasible alternative to HLRT for maintaining or improving muscle mass and strength.
BFR is usually accomplished by inflating a pneumatic cuff or specially designed elastic bands around the most proximal region of the upper and/or lower limbs. Training loads are usually between 20%-40% 1-RM, 75 repetitions per exercise (15- 30 repetitions per set) or sets to failure. During BFRT pressure is applied in such a way that only venous return is blocked while maintaining arterial inflow to the muscles. It causes hypoxia within the muscles. When exercise is performed with BFR, there is an increase in intramuscular pressure beneath the cuff, which further disturbs the blood flow.
Although the use of BFRT seems very enticing and a viable alternative to HLRT but the mechanisms underpinning the hypertrophic adaptations are yet to be fully determined. Over the years numerous theories have been put forth but general consensus of scientific community is that during BFRT, metabolic stress from vascular occlusion and mechanical tension from resistance training may lead to synergistic increases in muscle hypertrophy and strength. At a cellular level, metabolites accumulation like lactate and reactive oxygen species, hormonal differences, cell-to-cell signaling, cellular swelling, and intracellular signaling pathways have all been proposed.
Metabolites, which accumulate during exercise that are known mediators of muscular hypertrophy, are amplified by BFR's relative ischemic and hypoxic conditions. They are believed to induce earlier, peripherally mediated fatigue, resulting in greater motor unit recruitment, as suggested by the fact that BFRT has similar recruitment to that of HLRT. In addition, type II fast-twitch muscle fibers are activated during BFRT.
The benefits of BFRT may also be partially explained by the proliferation and activation of satellite cells (multipotent cells within muscle connective tissue responsible for muscle growth and regeneration) due to increased production of reactive oxygen species such as nitric oxide results from fluctuations in oxygen availability.
BFRT can be performed in either low frequency or high frequency. For low frequency, it is recommended to perform BFRT 2-3 times per week and the intervention lasts longer than three weeks. For high frequency, it is recommended to perform BFRT less than 3 weeks 1-2 times per day. High-frequency BFRT can be potentially useful for clinicians since the technique can provide positive physiological adaptations in short terms.
There are numerous studies conducted on short duration high frequency (<3 weeks intervention) BFRT. The duration of the intervention ranges between 1-3 weeks and frequency of training sessions ranges from 6-16 sessions per week to 24 sessions in 3 weeks. Short duration BFRT studies have positive effects on muscle strength, muscle size, performance, hormonal levels, inflammatory marks and satellite cells. However, there are still research gaps that needs to be addressed.
Difference between the effects of varied frequency short duration BFRT protocols i.e., high frequency vs low frequency on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes is still unclear. Furthermore, limited studies have been conducted on the effect of BFRT on muscles proximal to the BFR site. Often the studies have focused on chest and shoulder muscles but have reported conflicting results. One study assessed the effects of lower limb BFRT on trunk muscles (gluteus maximus, iliopsoas and lumber L4-5) however, it reported that BFR walk training does increase muscle mass in the trunk muscles.
To the best of our knowledge no study has assessed the effects of lower limb BFRT on abdominal muscles. Furthermore, research has shown that instability training can enhance abdominal muscles activation. However, effects of addition of instability during BFRT on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes are not known. Therefore, this study is designed to address some of the current research gaps that exists in BFRT protocols. This study will compare the effects of short duration BFRT protocols (high frequency vs low frequency) on musculoskeletal and performance outcomes. Furthermore, this study will try to understand the effects of addition of instability during BFRT on abdominal muscles.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Basic science
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 5
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group | Experimental | Other: High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM. |
| Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group | Experimental | Other: Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM. |
| High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group | Experimental | Other: High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs. |
| Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group | Experimental | Other: Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs |
| Control Group | Sham comparator | Other: Control GroupThe subjects of this group performed squat exercise 6 days a week but without BFR. Pneumatic cuff will be wrapped around the thigh of the subjects but it would not be inflated. The subjects of this group performed squat exercise 6 days a week but without BFR. Pneumatic cuff were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms but were not inflated. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 30 years
- Sex
- Male only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (9 listed)
- Sedentary males (< 2.5h/week physical activity) or < 300 METs per week (36)
- Age 18-30 years
- BMI between 18.5-29.9
- Free from any lower-limb pain or injury
- No previous experience with BFRT
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Any injuries of the musculoskeletal system that could prevent the participants from training or testing
- Any use of medication and/or supplements (e.g., protein powder, vitamins, creatine, NSAIDs, etc.)
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Diabetes and hypertensive patients
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM. Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise. | Other | High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group |
| Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM. Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise. | Other | Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group |
| High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 6 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs. Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise. | Other | High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group |
| Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability GroupSubjects allocated to this group performed squat exercise 3 days per week for 2 weeks with B Strong blood flow restriction cuffs, with the pressure set at 300mmHg of mercury for arm and 350mmHg of mercury for thigh and 30% of 1RM on instability pneumatic discs. Blood flow restriction cuffs were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise. | Other | Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group |
| Control GroupThe subjects of this group performed squat exercise 6 days a week but without BFR. Pneumatic cuff were applied to the most proximal part of the thighs and arms but were not inflated. Each subject performed 75 repetitions in total across 4 sets of squats in the order of 30-15-15-15. Rest between sets was 30 sec. Subjects were instructed to tummy tuck while performing the exercise. | Other | Control Group |
Primary outcome
Thigh Muscles Ultrasound Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subject lying in supine position. 50% of thigh length was measured from ASIS to mid patella. Ultrasound measurements of muscle thickness of bilateral rectus femoris, and vastus intermedius were performed.
Abdomen Muscles Ultrasound Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subject lying in supine position. The images of bilateral, transverse abdominis, internal oblique and external oblique were taken by placing the probe transversely in the mid-axillary line, between the subcostal line and the iliac crest 15 cm lateral to the umbilicus. For the rectus abdominis examination, the probe was placed transversely 3 cm lateral to the umbilicus.
Thigh Muscles Strength Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subject sitting on a table unsupported. Knee in 75° flexion. Dynamometer was fixed with the table with the help of a strap the other end of the strap was fixed with subject's leg just above the ankle joint. Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Abdominal Muscles Strength Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subject stood in a custom made frame. Knee slightly bent. Heels on the mark so it is standardized for all subjects. Knees and thighs secured and tightened with belt. Chest harness placed and connected to the dynamometer belt. Subject was positioned in 17.5° trunk flexion. Trunk angle checked with goniometer. Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Thigh Muscles Electromyography Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subject sitting on a table unsupported. Knee in 75° flexion. For quadriceps muscles the electrodes were placed approximately half the distance between the knee and the iliac spine.Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Abdominal Muscles Electromyography Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subject stood in a custom made frame. Knee slightly bent. Heels on the mark so it is standardized for all subjects. Knees and thighs secured and tightened with belt. Chest harness placed and connected to the dynamometer belt. Subject was positioned in 17.5° trunk flexion. For rectus abdominis the electrodes were placed 3 cm lateral to the umbilicus. For external oblique the electrodes were placed 15 cm lateral to the umbilicus. Patient performed MVC for 5 seconds. First 2 seconds submaximal effort. Last 3 seconds maximum effort. 3 trials. 2 mins break between the trails.
Jump Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Subjects were standing 2 meters away from the mobile stand. My jump 3 mobile app was used for assessment. For jump assessment the mobile was fixed on a stand and placed in front of the subject.
2 secondary outcomes
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Assessment
Time frame: 2 weeks
Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale
Time frame: 2 weeks
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 24 Nov 2025.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Asghar Khan study chair
asghar.khan@riphah.edu.pk
Waqar Ahmed Awan, PhD study chair
Riphah International University
Saad Rauf, PhD* principal investigator
Riphah International University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group, Low Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Group and High Frequency Blood Flow Restriction Training Instability Group in people with Blood Flow Restriction Training, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 9 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 24 Nov 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Thigh Muscles Ultrasound Assessment (time frame: 2 weeks). The study lists 7 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 24 Nov 2025.