Heavy-load Resistance Training With and Without Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Athletes

A 8 weeks, single-blinded randomized controlled trial will be conducted at Pakistan Sports Board (PSB). Forty-four athletes (18-35 years) will be randomized into Group A (HL-RT + BFR, n = 22) and Group B (HL-RT only, n = 22). BFR will be applied at 50% limb occlusion pressure during lower-body exercises (squats, leg press). Both groups trained 3x/week for 4 weeks at 70-80% 1RM. Outcomes included 1RM strength, squat endurance, push-up performance, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) scores.