The Protective Effect of High-Pressure Ischemic Preconditioning on Rowing Performance During Consecutive 2000-m Efforts

Purpose: This study examined the effects of low- and high-pressure ischemic preconditioning (LIPC and HIPC) on muscle oxygenation, physiological responses, and performance during repeated 2000-m rowing trials. This was a counterbalanced, repeated-measures crossover study. Methods : Eleven elite high school rowers were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 warm-up protocols: (1) traditional warm-up (control trial [CON]), (2) LIPC (100–190 mmHg) + traditional warm-up, or (c) HIPC (210–300 mmHg) + traditional warm-up. Measurements were taken before and after warm-up, immediately following two 2000-m rowing efforts, and 10 minutes postexercise. Variables included blood lactate, heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, muscle tissue oxygen saturation (tissue saturation index), mean power output, and total time. Results : Significantly greater reductions in tissue saturation index of the vastus lateralis during occlusion were observed in LIPC (36.41% [12.03%]) and HIPC (35.05% [14.29%]) compared with CON (10.43% [4.9%], P < .001). No significant group differences were found in blood lactate, heart rate, or rating of perceived exertion, although time effects were noted ( P < .001). While first-trial performance was similar, the second 2000-m trial showed significant group differences ( P = .009), with HIPC outperforming both CON and LIPC ( P < .05). The CON group demonstrated a performance decline, while LIPC and HIPC maintained output. High-pressure ischemic preconditioning also exhibited significantly higher mean power in the second trial compared with CON ( P = .04), with consistent pacing. Conclusions : These findings suggest that ischemic preconditioning, particularly HIPC, may enhance repeated high-intensity rowing performance by improving muscle oxygen extraction and sustaining output, offering practical benefits for endurance athletes.