Effects of blood flow restriction training using plural parallel cuff on walking functions of older people.

Objectives: Previous studies have shown that older people who usually walk faster have a lower risk of death. The present study investigated the effects of blood flow restriction training using the newly developed plural parallel cuff (multi-cuff training) on psychological and physiological parameters, aiming to improve walking function in older people.

Design, material and methods: Forty-two older adults participated in the present study. They were randomly allocated to two groups with the same average age: one group trained with a cuff wrapped on both legs (multi-cuff training) during strength training, and the second group trained without cuffs (control), with training protocols being similar for both groups. This study had a crossover design: after 3 weeks, the training was switched between the groups.

Results: Multi-cuff training significantly rejuvenated the estimated walking age compared to the control.

Conclusion: The multi-cuff training program improves the walking function of older people with no major problems.