Vascular occlusion training

Vascular occlusion training (VOT) or muscle occlusion training (also called blood flow restriction training abbreviated BFR training[1]) is an exercise approach involving compression of the vasculature proximal to the exercising muscles to reduce venous return from the limb, which causes venous pooling. Longer terms also include blood flow moderation exercise or vascular occlusion moderation training.

Exposure

VOT and the related methods have gained popularity mainly as an alternative to the progressive load principle in hypertrophy-specific weight training,[2][3] although more recent studies show inferior results compared with straightforward strength training.[2] VOT is nevertheless suggested as a possible solution to acquire muscular hypertrophy in "stubborn" body parts such as calves.[4][5]

Application

Although following similar dynamics, VOT has two different modes of inducing occlusion on the vasculature. The first method involves applying a simple tourniquet proximal to a muscle. Yet another method is the technique of manipulating muscle contraction.[6]

Kaatsu

This is a patented method of blood flow moderation exercise invented by Dr. Yoshiaki Sato in 1966 that makes use of a set of equipment named the KAATSU Master and KAATSU Nano that to moderate the blood flow to the limbs.[7]

Risks

When using belts and lifting straps for tourniquet, the amount of pressure on the vasculature cannot be controlled and there are reports of rhabdomyolysis cases due to VOT.[2] Dr. Sato himself risked his life in 1967 after uncontrolled sessions of VOT, leading him to focus more on control and adjustment of the pressure applied on the vasculature.[7]

References

  1. ↑ Blood Flow Restriction Training by by Brad Schoenfeld of T-Nation 16 September 2013
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Big Ass Mass: Occlusion Training, Bryan Haycock, FLEX
  3. ↑ How Does Occlusion Training Work In Increasing muscle?
  4. ↑ Is this the cure for stubborn calves?, Jerry Brainum, Iron Man
  5. ↑ Calves grow quicker if you restrict the blood supply
  6. ↑ How to build muscle with vascular occlusion training, Jade Teta, Metabolic Effect
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Blood-flow restriction weight training destroys ice hockey player's muscles

External links