Table 3_Effects of individualized blood flow restriction during brief twice-weekly low-load cycling on mobility and muscle function in adults older than 70 years.docx

In secondary analyses, no significant between-group differences were observed for TUG [p = 0.14; g = −0.68 (−1.61 to 0.25)] or 6MWT distance [p = 0.08; g = 0.79 (−0.15 to 1.73)]. However, INT showed significant improvements in lower-limb strength with no relevant improvements in CON [leg press: p = 0.04, g = 0.98 [0.02 to 1.94]; leg extension: p < 0.01, g = 1.52 [0.49 to 2.56]]. Furthermore, significant improvements were also observed in muscle mass and endurance capacity (p < 0.05), as well as in health-related quality of life, including vitality [baseline-adjusted ANCOVA: p = 0.042, adjusted mean difference = 6.94 (0.29 to 13.6)] and mental health [p < 0.001, g = 1.61 (0.53 to 2.68)].

Handgrip strength was preserved in INT despite a significant decline in CON (p = 0.042). In secondary exploratory analyses, HDL cholesterol increased, and HbA1c decreased (p < 0.05). Echocardiography revealed no adverse structural or functional cardiac adaptations, and no adverse events occurred.</p>Conclusion<p>A brief, twice-weekly low-load cycling program combined with BFR elicited significant rises in lower-limb strength with associated clinically meaningful improvements in mobility despite a minimal exercise dose.

Endurance-based BFR appears to be a feasible, safe, and well-tolerated strategy to improve physical function and support independent living in healthy older adults. This trial was not prospectively registered in a public trial registry. It was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number: NCT07825987).</p>