Effects of blood flow restriction training on aerobic capacity: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and purpose Numerous research studies have shown the effects of Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training on muscle strength and hypertrophy, but there is still no comprehensive analysis of the effects on aerobic capacity. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative results of BFR training on aerobic capacity. Methods PRISMA guidelines were used to carry out the systematic review and meta-analysis. Five electronic databases were searched up to October 2020: PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, Scopus and Cochrane/Embase. Data selected for primary analysis consisted of post-intervention changes in VO2 values (VO2max, VO(2)peak). Case reports, acute studies and review studies were excluded. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020214919). Results After the elimination of duplicates, 62 records were screened. Among these, 17 studies were included in the systematic review. Twelve of these were involved in the meta-analysis. Discussion BFR training compared with exercise under normal blood flow conditions could positively influences both aerobic capacity and athletic performance. Differences in young and older subjects were discussed. BFR showed to be a promising and beneficial training to elicit improvements in aerobic capacity (measured in VO2) and performances.