Acute hemodynamic, metabolic, and perceptual responses to low-intensity blood flow restriction vs. conventional resistance training in overweight young adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v79.117796Keywords:
Blood flow restriction, hemodynamic, blood lactate, overweightAbstract
Introduction: Resistance training benefits adults with overweight, yet adherence to traditional high-intensity training (HT) is often limited by discomfort and physical strain. Low-intensity resistance exercise with blood flow restriction (LTBFR) has emerged as a viable alternative, but head-to-head evidence on acute physiological and perceptual stress in this population remains limited.
Objective: To compare acute hemodynamic, perceptual, and metabolic responses to LTBFR versus HT in overweight young adults.
Methodology: Twenty-four overweight young adults were randomized to LTBFR (n=12; 40% 1RM, 60% arterial occlusion pressure) or HT (n=12; 70% 1RM). Hemodynamic variables (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure) and perceptual measures (Rate of Perceived Exertion, Visual Analogue Scale for discomfort) were assessed pre/post a single session. Blood lactate was measured immediately post-session at baseline and after an 8-week intervention.
Results: At baseline, HT was rated significantly more demanding and uncomfortable, and evoked greater increases in heart rate and systolic blood pressure than LTBFR. Conversely, LTBFR elicited a higher diastolic blood pressure response. Both protocols initially produced comparable, significant elevations in blood lactate. Following 8 weeks, the acute post-exercise lactate response was significantly attenuated in both groups, indicating improved metabolic efficiency.
Conclusion: In overweight young adults, conventional HT imposes greater acute cardiovascular and perceptual load than LTBFR. Nonetheless, both modalities evoke robust metabolic stress and yield favorable adaptations over time. LTBFR provides these benefits with substantially lower cardiovascular strain and improved tolerability and safety, supporting its use as a physiologically potent, patient-friendly entry point for initiating resistance training in this at-risk population.
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