About the study
The purpose of this research is to determine whether a new type of weight training, called blood flow restricted resistance training (BFR-RT) can improve running performance instead of traditional heavy-load resistance training (TRAD). BFR involves applying blood pressure cuffs to the exercise limb, which challenges the muscle to work harder. This training method has been shown to improve strength and performance using loads that would typically be too light to elicit any positive adaptations. However, it has not been explored in runners.
This is a two-part study. You will first undergo one session of strength testing (~60 minutes), followed by a two-week familiarisation period where you will complete two 60-minute resistance training sessions (one TRAD and one BFR-RT) separated by 7 days (i.e., one session per week). After each of these you will be asked to complete a daily survey online that asks you to rate your muscle soreness and recovery.
Part two involves a four-week intervention period, where you will be randomly allocated to either a control group (who will complete their normal running training only) or to the intervention group (who will complete their normal running training plus two 60-minute BFR-RT sessions per week). If you are allocated to the BFR-RT group, all sessions will be conducted one-on-one with a trainer, and times that best fit your schedule.
At the start and end of the 4-week intervention, all participants (in both groups), will undergo 3-in-1 physiological testing to determine your baseline VO2max, lactate threshold and running economy. This test is normally valued at $180.
Time commitments for the study include completing daily tolerability ratings for the first part of the study, which take no more than 5 minutes per day for two weeks duration. The 1RM strength testing will be completed in approximately 60 minutes. The familiarisation period consists of two 60-minute sessions split across 2 weeks. The 3-in-1 testing will take approximately 45 minutes each (taken before and after the intervention). The 4-week intervention itself will include two 60-minute sessions per week.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible you must:
- Pass stage one of the ESSA pre-screening
- Have no contraindications to the AIS BFR training guidelines
- Be aged between 18-50 years old
- Run at least 10 km per week
You will not be eligible if:
- You have participated in structured resistance training in the last 3 months
- You have completed any BFR-RT in the past 6 months
- Have a musculoskeletal or neurological condition
- Taking blood clotting medication
Benefits
By taking part in this research you will receive two 3-in-1 running tests valued at $180 per test. From these tests, you will receive your personal VO2max, lactate threshold and running economy. Lactate threshold data specifically, can generate training zones to assist in overall training program development.
If you are interested in the study, please click on the following link to express your interest:
https://unisasurveys.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a2XCp6XBYKWFcWy
OR
For questions, please contact the UniSA Clinical Trials Facility unisa.researchvolunteers@unisa.edu.au | +61 8 8302 1365
The project has been approved by the University of South Australia’s Human Research Ethics Committee (Ethics Protocol 205214)
