Blood flow restriction training – an intervention to counteract muscle loss caused by the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: Physical inactivity is a major unintended consequence of the social distancing imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Increased physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors have profound physiological impacts on muscular health, leading to muscle and strength losses that are associated with lower performance and higher mortality rates. In the so-called “new normal”, exercise routines must find alternative ways to replace high-intensity resistance exercises, since resources are limited in home environments. Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a low-intensity training method involving compressive pressure of the vasculature by use of a tourniquet cuff in the proximal portion of the upper and lower limbs. BFR has been demonstrated to be a safe and efficient training modality to promote muscle and strength gains in different groups, including those under musculoskeletal rehabilitation, young and older adults, and athletes. Objective: This review aims to show that BFR training is an effective intervention for counteracting losses of muscle mass and function caused by Covid-19. Methods: A review of the scientific literature was conducted on electronic databases, such as PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science, covering the period 2000–2020. Results: We advocate the use of BFR training as an urgent counteracting intervention to prevent muscle and strength losses during social distancing and propose a progressive home-based protocol based on wide array of literature. Conclusion: This evidence can help practitioners, personal trainers, physical therapists, and physician assistants to implement an alternative exercise routine that may prevent the deleterious physiological effects of physical inactivity on muscle function during intermittent social distancing.