5 weeks of online resistance training with blood flow restriction increases sit-to-stand oxygen consumption in healthy older adults

Maximal oxygen consumption (VO 2 max) reflects the greatest amount of oxygen utilized upon exertion. Blood flow restriction (BFR) limits venous return, enabling low-intensity exercise to yield adaptations like high-intensity training. This study examined whether 5 weeks of online resistance training with BFR straps improves VO 2 , tidal volume, and respiratory frequency in older adults. Twenty-five participants (mean age: 70 ± 5.6 years) completed bi-weekly trainings. VO 2 and respiratory measures were assessed during a 30 s sit-to-stand test. The BFR group showed significant VO 2 gains, while respiratory measures remained unchanged. BFR may offer an effective strategy to enhance aerobic capacity in aging adults. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06724393