High-load, low-load, and passive blood flow restriction training for competitive sprinters

Comparative Effects of High-Load, Low-Load, and Passive Blood Flow Restriction Training on Strength and Sprint Performance in Competitive Sprinters

NA · Riphah International University · NCT07438535

This study will test whether high-load, low-load, or passive blood flow restriction training improves sprint speed and strength in competitive sprinters aged 16–30.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment18 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province)
Trial IDNCT07438535 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized trial will assign competitive male and female sprinters aged 16–30 to one of three groups: high-load BFR (70–85% 1RM during sets), low-load BFR (20–30% 1RM during sets), or passive BFR applied between sets. Participants complete a six-week, sprint-specific resistance program three times per week including resisted sprints, barbell step-ups, hip thrusts, Nordic curls, and bounding. Primary outcomes are 1RM strength, countermovement and standing broad jump performance, and timed 10m/30m/100m sprints, with subjective exertion tracked by sRPE; measurements are taken before and after the intervention. The trial is conducted at the Punjab Sports Board in Lahore using purposive sampling of competitive sprinters.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy competitive sprinters aged 16–30 with at least two years of sprint-specific training and no contraindicating medical conditions.

Not a fit: Individuals with cardiovascular, vascular, pulmonary, renal, or other contraindicating medical conditions, pregnant or lactating people, or athletes not engaged in sprint training are unlikely to receive benefit from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, one of the protocols could offer a faster or lower-load way to boost sprint speed and neuromuscular strength for sprinters.

How similar studies have performed: Prior trials and meta-analyses of BFR training report small-to-moderate improvements in jump, sprint, and power outcomes, so this approach has supporting but not conclusive evidence.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age between 16-30 years
* Competitive sprinters with at least 2 years of sprint-specific training
* Healthy individuals without cardiovascular, metabolic, musculoskeletal, or neurological disorders
* Willingness to participate in a 6-week training program

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy or lactation
* Cardiovascular, vascular, pulmonary, renal or metabolic disorders
* Uncontrolled hypertension
* Recent significant weight loss
* Use of performance-enhancing drugs within past 2 months
* Any medical condition preventing safe participation

Where this trial is running

Lahore, Punjab Province

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Blood Flow Restriction, Competitive Sprinters, High-Load, Low-Load, Passive Blood Flow Restriction

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.