Effects of Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction Resistance Training on Lower-Limb Strength in University Students

Abstract

This study examined the effects of low-load resistance training combined with blood flow restriction on lower-limb strength in university Latin dance students. A total of 45 participants were randomly assigned to three groups: a blood flow restriction resistance training group (BFR-RT), a traditional resistance training group (TRT), and a dance training control group. The intervention lasted eight weeks. Lower-limb strength was assessed using two performance indicators, namely hip flexor peak torque and ankle rebound endurance, before and after the intervention. The results showed that both resistance training groups improved lower-limb strength after the training period. In particular, the BFR-RT group showed marked increases in hip flexor peak torque and ankle rebound endurance. The TRT group also demonstrated clear improvements, whereas only small changes were observed in the control group. Importantly, the magnitude of improvement in the BFR-RT group was comparable to that of the TRT group despite the substantially lower training load. These findings suggest that low-load resistance training combined with blood flow restriction can effectively improve lower-limb strength in university Latin dance students. This approach may therefore be considered a practical alternative to conventional resistance training when reducing mechanical stress on the musculoskeletal system is desirable.