Effects of blood flow restriction training combined with plyometric training on lower limb muscle strength and motor unit recruitment in basketball players: An experimental study.
Jiqing Cui, Fangzhou He, Yufei Liu
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of blood flow restriction training (BFR) combined with plyometric training (PT) on lower limb muscle function in 20 elite basketball players. Results indicated that while both training methods improved muscle strength, the PT-BFR group showed significantly greater enhancements in hip extension and flexion at 60°/s, as well as increased electromyographic activity in the rectus femoris compared to PT alone.
Key findings
- Both groups improved knee flexion and extension peak torque at 180°/s (all p < 0.01).
- The PT-BFR group had greater gains in hip extension and flexion at 60°/s (p = 0.036-0.002).
- RMS of the rectus femoris increased significantly more in the PT-BFR group (right: p = 0.004; left: p = 0.020).
- CMJ height improved more in the PT-BFR group with a significant group × time interaction (p = 0.042).
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of combining blood flow restriction with plyometric training to enhance lower limb strength and neuromuscular recruitment, which may be beneficial for athletes aiming to improve performance.