How BFR works to improve muscular and cardiovascular endurance

Studies show a marked increase in endurance from using BFR. Research suggests that metabolic stress and associated improvements in energy molecular breakdown increase the rate at which glucose (sugars) are transported into muscles. Increased capillarization of muscle fibres due to BFR training significantly improves the body’s ability to deliver oxygen and glucose to working muscles. The resulting increase in glucose uptake and energy delivery improve endurance capacity, both cardiovascular (running, cycling, rowing etc.) and muscular (getting a couple more reps).

Various studies have shown significant improvements in VO2 max scores (a measure of fitness) of elite level athletes after using BFR. A study conducted with professional rowers showed improvements of 6.9% as a direct outcome of BFR, while runners and cyclists improved by 10% and 6.4% respectively. For sports where small margins have a significant impact, these findings are quite extraordinary and shine a bright light on the benefits of BFR training.