Effectiveness of aerobic training with blood flow restriction and ischemic preconditioning on anaerobic performance

The aim of the study was to analyze the effectiveness of aerobic training (AT) with restricted blood flow (BFR+AT) and ischemic preconditioning (PCI+AT) on the anaerobic performance of non-exercising individuals. This is a longitudinal study, with a sample of 23 sedentary men (age= 30.0 ± 5.57 years; = 1.77 ± 0.07 m; body mass= 91.10 ± 18.66 kg), who underwent specific aerobic power tests in vertical cycloergometer, step and treadmill. An aerobic training program was carried out for 4 weeks. The subjects were randomized into three groups: BFR+AT: continuous at 50% of the auscultatory pulse; PCI+AT: three cycles of 05' min of vascular occlusion/reperfusion at 220 mmHg; Control: AT without BFR. All groups performed the same training (6' min per ergometer with 45" min interval at an intensity of 50% of VO2max). Anaerobic performance was verified using the RAST TEST, analyzing the measurements of lactate (La), peak power (PP) and fatigue index (%F). There were significant differences in La Pre vs Post levels (∆ =40%) in the PCI group; an increase was noted in PP (∆=23%) compared to the other groups; there was no significant difference in any of the groups in the F variable. However, there was a greater tendency to fatigue in the Control group (∆=23%). Aerobic training with restricted blood flow and ischemic preconditioning has been shown to be effective in improving anaerobic performance, considering lactate levels, peak power. However, the fatigue index showed a greater tendency of decreasing fatigue, thus improving the anaerobic capacity of individuals without regular physical practice.