Bridging Training and Competition: Blood Flow Restriction as a Novel Tapering Approach

Background Effective tapering is essential to maintain peak performance and reduce injury risk prior to competition. Blood flow restriction (BFR) training, a low-load alternative to traditional resistance exercise, has shown promise; however, its biomechanical effects during tapering are not well defined. This study aimed to compare the acute effects of low-pressure and high-pressure BFR with traditional progressive resistance exercise (PRE) on muscle tone and stiffness during a simulated tapering period. Methods This randomized controlled study included sixty-two healthy participants (mean age 21.03 ± 0.83 years;54.8% female). The participants were randomized into three groups: low-pressure BFR (20% arterial occlusion pressure [AOP]), high-pressure BFR (80% AOP), or PRE. Over four days, participants completed group-specific resistance protocols targeting the biceps brachii. Muscle tone and stiffness were measured using a MyotonPRO device just after each session. Results In intragroup analyses, muscle tone showed significant time effect in the PRE (η²=0.772, p < 0.001) and 80% BFR (η²=0.387, p < 0.001) groups, but not in the 20% BFR group (η²=0.004, p = 0.975). Similarly, muscle stiffness increased over time in the PRE (η²=0.393, p < 0.001) and 80% BFR (η²=0.251, p < 0.001) groups, while no significant changes were observed in 20% BFR group (η²=0.037, p = 0.544). Intergroup comparisons revealed that 80% BFR induced greater changes in both muscle tone and stiffness compared to 20% BFR (p < 0.001). Conclusions Both high-pressure BFR and PRE increase muscle tone and stiffness during tapering, which may elevate injury risk. In contrast, low-pressure BFR preserves neuromuscular properties without exacerbating tissue stiffness, presenting a viable and safer tapering alternative for strength athletes aiming to maintain readiness while minimizing mechanical strain. Clinical trial number: NCT06861699