Blood flow restriction training intervention in the elderly with sarcopenic obesity

Liu Chenchen; Liu Ruize; Bao Mengmeng; Fang Li; Cao Liquan; Wu Jiangbo

doi:10.12307/2025.997

Abstract：BACKGROUND:Sarcopenic obesity is a syndrome characterized by the loss of muscle mass and an increase in body fat,which increases the risk of metabolic diseases and physical disabilities in the elderly.Blood flow restriction training involves applying pressure to a body part during exercise to reduce blood flow,achieving the effects of high-intensity training with low-intensity exercise,making it suitable for the elderly and those with limited mobility. OBJECTIVE:To review and discuss the biological mechanisms,effectiveness,and limitations of blood flow restriction training in addressing sarcopenic obesity in the elderly,and to provide exercise prescription recommendations based on current evidence. METHODS:Literature published up to September 2024 was retrieved from major databases.English and Chinese search terms included"blood flow restriction training,KAATSU,elderly,sarcopenia,sarcopenic obesity,muscle,fat."A total of 66 articles were selected,organized,and analyzed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:This study explored the biological mechanisms of blood flow restriction training,including creating an ischemic-hypoxic environment,accumulating metabolites,activating potential signaling pathways,and promoting satellite cell proliferation.The effectiveness of blood flow restriction training in improving muscle strength,mass,and reducing body fat was evaluated,and its potential advantages and risks in the elderly population were discussed.It is recommended that elderly patients with sarcopenic obesity undergo blood flow restriction training combined with 20%-40%1 RM resistance training for three to four times per week.Starting from the first week,there are three sets of training with 30,15,and 15 repetitions respectively.From the second week,there are four sets with 30,15,15,and 15 repetitions respectively.The rest interval between each set is 30-60 seconds.The cuffwidth is 3-5 cm.The pressure of each set increases incrementally by 40%,60%,and 80%of the arterial occlusion pressure.The airbag pressure ranges from 80 to 240 mmHg.Future research is needed to further verify the long-term effects of blood flow restriction training,optimize the training protocol,and explore its application possibilities in different disease contexts.