The Effects of the Blood Flow Restriction Method on Performance Parameters in Elite Volleyball Players

Summary

This study aims to investigate the effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) applied during jump squat exercises on selected performance parameters in elite volleyball players. Prior to each training session, all participants followed a standardized warm-up protocol that included dynamic stretching, mobility exercises, and general body activation to prepare for the workout. Following this preparation phase, the jump squat exercises were performed.

Participants were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group performed the jump squats under blood flow restriction using a manually controlled, non-automated tourniquet, while the control group performed the same exercises without any restriction.

Performance parameters were assessed before and after the 4-week intervention using the following measurement tools:

Jump performance: Measured using the Optojump system

Agility: Assessed with the Hexagon Agility Test

Balance: Evaluated using the Y Balance Test

Perceived fatigue: Measured via the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale

The purpose of the study is to determine whether jump squat exercises performed under BFR conditions can lead to greater improvements in athletic performance and perceived fatigue compared to traditional training methods. The study was conducted using equipment provided by Bahçeşehir University and included licensed volleyball players from Süreyyapaşa Sports Club. The research protocol was approved by the Non-Interventional Research Ethics Committee of Üsküdar University.

Conditions

• Jump Performance, Agility, Balance, Blood Flow Restriction, Fatigue

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Jump Squat with Blood Flow Restriction (BFR)

This intervention consisted of jump squat exercises performed with blood flow restriction applied using a non-automated, manually adjustable tourniquet placed on the proximal thighs. The restriction was applied during the exercise to partially limit venous return while maintaining arterial flow. The exercise protocol included 3 sets of 10 repetitions, performed 3 times per week for 4 weeks. A standardized warm-up preceded each session.

BEHAVIORAL

Jump Squat without Blood Flow Restriction

This intervention consisted of the same jump squat protocol as the experimental group but without the application of blood flow restriction. Participants performed 3 sets of 10 repetitions, 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session was preceded by a standardized warm-up routine that included dynamic stretching and general activation exercises.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Süreyyapaşa Sports Club

  collaborator UNKNOWN

• Bahçeşehir University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Gokay GORMELI, MD, PhD · Bahçeşehir University, Faculty of Health Sciences

• Melike Gizem KALAYCI, PhD, PT · Bahçeşehir University, Faculty of Health Sciences

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

OTHER

Masking

NONE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

25 Years

Sex

MALE

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-02-10

Primary Completion

2025-03-21

Completion

2025-03-21

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations