The Long-Term Impact on Ankle-Brachial Index from Low Intensity Resistance Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction Technique: A Systematic Review
Volume 14, Issue 1 (2024)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (2024)
The Long-Term Impact on Ankle-Brachial Index from Low Intensity Resistance Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction Technique: A Systematic Review
Abstract:
This comprehensive review delves into the impact of low-intensity resistance training coupled with blood flow
restriction (BFR) on arterial stiffness, evaluated through the ankle-brachial index (ABI). This assessment seeks to discern
any discernible alterations in arterial stiffness attributed to this unique training approach. Employing systematic search
via PubMed and Google Scholar databases, this review examined research articles focusing on the chronic effects of resistance
training with BFR on the ABI. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies assessing this effect across various age groups
while concentrating on healthy individuals and publications in the English language. Among the extensive array of studies,
a selective inclusion of 5 research articles formed the foundational basis of this analysis. Synthesizing analyses from these
studies illuminated the safety of BFR training, particularly at intensities around 20-30% or using elastic bands. Intriguingly,
these modalities exhibited no significant impact on alterations in the ABI, notably observed within elderly subjects.
However, a notable scarcity in studies focusing on young subjects warrants a more comprehensive investigation into this
specific demographic. The findings of this review underscore the safety and efficacy of BFR resistance training methodologies,
especially protocols utilizing 20-30% 1RM or incorporating elastic bands of 75-repetition-scheme, showcasing no
significant impact on the ankle-brachial index, particularly in the elderly population over intervention periods not exceeding
12 weeks. Encouraging practitioners, these established methodologies offer safe practices for the elderly. However, the
evident research gap in young subjects necessitates more expansive investigations.
Keywords:
Ankle-brachial index, Blood flow restriction, Resistance training
Full Text:
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