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Hemodynamic Effects of Low-Load Resistance Training Combined with Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) on Inflation Pressure (IP) Adaptations in Trained and Untrained Individuals

Oliveira JA, Caetano AFP, Dantas PAM, Morais KS, Ricarte GB, Paes PP et al. · Research Square · 2026

This study examined how different blood flow restriction (BFR) pressures affect muscle growth and blood vessel function when combined with very light weights (30% of maximum strength) in trained and untrained people over 8 weeks. Trained individuals showed better muscle growth at 40% restriction compared to 60% restriction, and all BFR groups showed improved blood vessel health indicated by lower resting restriction pressures needed over time.
Takeaway: Adjust your BFR pressure downward periodically during training as your muscles grow and blood vessels adapt, rather than keeping it fixed.
Abstract (source)

Abstract

Background: This study compared the adaptive effects of insonation pressure (INP) across different blood flow restriction (BFR) fractions in trained and untrained individuals.

Methods: The sample of N = 46 participants underwent an 8-week intervention (3 sessions/week), performing squat and elbow flexion exercises with a load of 30% of 1RM, with different restriction fractions (60% and 40%) and low-load training. The groups were divided into TBFR60%, TBFR40%, TLLT, UBFR60%, UBFR40%, and ULLT. Muscle thickness and muscle tissue quality (biceps brachii and rectus femoris) were assessed at baseline, after 4 weeks (intermediate), and after 8 weeks (final).

Results: In the BB, TBFR40% demonstrated superior hypertrophic gains (∆=0.60; p = 0.001) compared to TBFR60% (∆=0.28; p = 0.025). All BFR groups exhibited a chronic reduction in baseline INP, indicating improved vascular compliance and endothelial efficiency. Positive correlations between MT and INP confirmed that muscle mass directly influences required restriction pressure.

Conclusion: Low-load BFR at 40% INP effectively induces hypertrophy and reduces peripheral vascular resistance in untrained individuals, whereas trained individuals may require tailored pressure loads. Because muscular and vascular adaptations occur dynamically, pressure prescription must be individualized and periodically adjusted throughout training.

Primary studyResistance Training & Hypertrophy
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