Low-intensity blood flow restriction training to improve leg strength and kicking in taekwondo athletes
Effects of Low-Intensity Blood Flow Restriction Training on Lower-Limb Strength and Kicking Performance in Taekwondo Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This project will test if low-intensity blood flow restriction during workouts can help national-level taekwondo athletes (aged 16–25) improve lower-limb strength and kicking performance.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 18 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years to 25 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Shanghai University of Sport Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality) |
| Trial ID | NCT07538037 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Participants are randomized to a low-intensity blood flow restriction training (LI-BFRT) group or a conventional high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) group and complete a supervised 6-week lower-limb program three times per week. LI-BFRT uses controlled external limb occlusion to create a hypoxic, metabolically stressful environment while using lower mechanical loads. The HIRT group performs traditional high-load resistance exercises without occlusion. Outcomes include measures of lower-limb strength, explosive performance, and sport-specific kicking ability to compare the training effects between approaches.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: National-level taekwondo athletes aged 16–25 with at least 3 years of systematic training, no lower-limb injury in the past 6 months, and no major cardiovascular, metabolic, or neurological disorders are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Individuals with current lower-limb injuries, relevant medical conditions, or those not meeting the required training background are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, athletes could achieve similar strength and kicking gains using lower mechanical loads, potentially reducing joint stress and training burden.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research shows LI-BFRT often produces strength and hypertrophy comparable to high-load training in various populations, but sport-specific evidence in taekwondo is limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Taekwondo athletes aged 16-25 years National-level athletes (National Level 1 or higher); Minimum of 3 years of systematic taekwondo training experience; Free from lower-limb injury within the past 6 months; Able to complete the training intervention and testing procedures. Exclusion Criteria: \- History of cardiovascular, metabolic, or neurological disorders; Current musculoskeletal injury or pain affecting training; Participation in other structured resistance training programs during the study period; Use of medications or supplements that may affect physical performance Inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent.
Where this trial is running
Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality
- Shanghai University of Sport — Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Yunzhou Hu, MSc
- Email: 2421852028@sus.edu.cn
- Phone: +86 13532279646
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.