BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Long-distance runners with exercise-induced hypertension (EIH) are at increased risk for cardiovascular complications. Although blood flow restriction (BFR) training has shown promise in improving vascular function, hemodynamic response, and cardiorespiratory fitness, its effects in EIH runners remain understudied. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of BFR training on cardiovascular responses and exercise performance in this population as a potential non-pharmacological therapy. METHODS: Middle-aged male long-distance runners aged 40 to 65 with peak systolic blood pressure (SBP) >= 210 mmHg during graded exercise testing were randomly assigned to either a BFR group (n = 18) or a non-BFR control group (n = 15) using a computer-generated random sequence. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups. Both groups performed aerobic training at 40 to 60% HRR for 20 min twice weekly for 8 weeks. SBP, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), rate pressure product (RPP), ventilatory threshold (VT), VOmax, and perceived exertion were assessed before and after the intervention at rest, during exercise, and during recovery. RESULTS: Compared to the non-BFR group, the BFR group showed statistically significant reductions in resting and maximal SBP and DBP (p < 0.05), along with significant increases in VOmax and VT (p < 0.05). During submaximal exercise and post-exercise recovery, SBP and RPP were significantly lower in the BFR group (p < 0.05). The reductions in maximal SBP and DBP were significantly greater in the BFR group than in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: BFR training led to reduced myocardial workload and enhanced cardiovascular efficiency in male runners with EIH. These findings suggest that BFR training may be a viable non-pharmacological therapy for mitigating cardiovascular risks associated with EIH. Future studies should explore the long-term effects of BFR in broader populations and assess its applicability in clinical settings.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help

• PubMed Central
• DOI
• PubMed
• publisher