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Effects of blood flow restriction–augmented baduanjin training on quadriceps strength and postural stability in sedentary young men: a randomized controlled trial

Wenbo Ren, Yuanpeng Liao, Zhenhua Jin, Jiahuan Huang, Wenshi Wang · Scientific Reports · 2026

Researchers had 38 sedentary young men do 8 weeks of Baduanjin (a gentle Chinese qigong exercise routine) either alone or with blood flow restriction cuffs on the legs. The BFR group gained significantly more quadriceps strength and showed steadier single-leg balance with eyes open, though eyes-closed balance was no different between groups, and no adverse events occurred.
Takeaway: Add blood flow restriction to low-intensity movement practice like Baduanjin if heavy loading isn't an option, to boost leg strength and balance.
Abstract (source)

This randomized controlled trial examined whether augmenting traditional Baduanjin (BDJ) exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) enhances quadriceps muscle function and postural stability in sedentary young men. A total of 38 participants were randomly assigned to either BDJ or BFR-BDJ training for 8 weeks. Quadriceps peak torque, total work, and single-leg stance stability under eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions were assessed using isokinetic dynamometry and force-platform measures. Compared with BDJ alone, BFR-BDJ produced significantly greater improvements in quadriceps strength and reductions in sway velocity during eyes-open stance. No between-group differences were observed under eyes-closed conditions, suggesting visual dependence in balance enhancement. No adverse events occurred. These

Findings: indicate that integrating BFR with BDJ provides a low-intensity yet effective training strategy to improve lower-limb neuromuscular performance and functional stability in individuals unable or unwilling to engage in high-load exercise.

Randomized controlled trialOpen accessResistance Training & Hypertrophy
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