Your new experience awaits. Try the new design now and help us make it even better

ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Front. Physiol., 07 November 2025

Sec. Exercise Physiology

Volume 16 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2025.1656050

Effect of six weeks of blood flow restriction combined with Tabata training on anaerobic capacity in male badminton players

Yuancheng Xia&#x;Yuancheng Xia1Xin Zheng&#x;Xin Zheng2Kaixiang ZhouKaixiang Zhou2Leyi JiangLeyi Jiang3Bojun SongBojun Song1Shuxian XuShuxian Xu1Zhangyuting Shang,
Zhangyuting Shang1,4*Jin Dai
Jin Dai1*
  • 1Sports Coaching College, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
  • 2College of Physical Education and Health Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
  • 3School of Strength and Conditioning Training, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
  • 4College of Physical Education and Health Management, Chongqing University of Education, Chongqing, China

Background: Blood flow restriction (BFR) combined with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is increasingly recognized as an effective strategy for enhancing aerobic capacity and muscle strength in athletes. However, there is no consensus on the effects of BFR combined with HIIT on anaerobic capacity.

Objective: This study aims to examine the effects of BFR combined with Tabata training (BFR-Tabata), a type of HIIT, on anaerobic capacity in male badminton players.

Methods: Thirty male badminton players (age: 20.4 ± 1.2 years) were randomized to the BFR-Tabata group (n = 15) or the Tabata group (n = 15). Both groups performed 6 weeks (3 times per week) of Tabata training (20 s maximal effort/10 s rest x 8 sets x 4 rounds). Pre and post-intervention assessments included a 30-s Badminton-specific endurance test, countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), and Wingate anaerobic test (peak power [PP], average power [AP], fatigue index [FI], time to peak [TTP]). A two-way repeated measures ANOVA (time × group) was used to analyze training effects, with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Effect sizes were reported as partial eta squared (ηp2) or Cohen’s d, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The BFR-Tabata training intervention significantly improved anaerobic endurance among male badminton athletes. In comparison to the Tabata group, the BFR-Tabata group exhibited statistically significant differences in badminton-specific endurance (p = 0.02, d = 0.92, moderate effect) and multiple anaerobic performance indicators assessed by the Wingate test, including PP (p = 0.01, d = 1.11, moderate effect), AP (p < 0.01, d = 1.51, large effect), and TTP (p < 0.01, d = 2.10, very large). However, no statistically significant difference was observed in lower limb explosive strength measures, including CMJ (p = 0.50, d = 0.25, small effect), SJ (p = 0.56, d = 0.21, small effect), or during the Wingate test the FI (F = 0.138, p = 0.71, ηp2 = 0.005, trivial effect).

Conclusion: Blood flow restriction combined with Tabata training is an effective strategy for improving anaerobic capacity in male badminton players, but it has limited enhancement of lower-limb explosive strength.

1 Introduction

Badminton is a high-intensity intermittent event characterized by rapid changes of direction, acceleration-deceleration, and vertical jumps over short periods (usually 20 s) during a competition (Edel et al., 2024; Hong et al., 2014; Phomsoupha and Laffaye, 2015; Shariff et al., 2009; Yuan et al., 2025). It also requires a high level of physical fitness, as athletes are given only short breaks between matches (Zhang et al., 2016). The factors that affect badminton performance include not only cardiorespiratory endurance, agility, and quickness, but also anaerobic energy system (Ko et al., 2021). This system supplies energy that helps badminton players sustain a high-intensity effort or maintain their pace, especially when recovery time is limited (Phomsoupha and Laffaye, 2015; Göktepe, 2007). A study reported that in competitive games, badminton players reach over 90% of HRmax, and about 30% of the energy comes from the anaerobic system (Phomsoupha and Laffaye, 2015). High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is recognized as a highly effective training method for enhancing anaerobic performance in players (Franchini et al., 2019). This training method improves anaerobic metabolism by increasing energy expenditure during exercise sessions and elevating excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) (BaiQuan et al., 2025). Additionally, HIIT significantly enhances skeletal muscle oxidative capacity and substrate utilization efficiency by promoting metabolic adaptations (Hoshino et al., 2016). Donie et al. have shown that a 6-week HIIT program significantly improved the 30-m sprint in collegiate badminton players (Donie et al., 2021). Ko et al., 2021 demonstrated that 4 weeks of HIIT (three sessions per week) significantly enhanced the anaerobic capacity of badminton players (Ko et al., 2021). Samsir reported a statistically significant improvement in the 20 m shuttle run test following a 10-week HIIT intervention in 16 male adolescent badminton players (Suppiah et al., 2019). Tabata training, a type of HIIT training, is commonly structured as eight repeated cycles of 20 s of maximal-intensity exercise followed by 10 s of rest, resulting in a complete session duration of only 4 minutes. One study has found that Tabata training (20s sprints at 170% V̇O2max with 10 s rest) led to a significant 28% enhancement in maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) among male physical students (Tabata et al., 1996). Compared to traditional HIIT, which typically requires 20 min or more to elicit comparable physiological responses, Tabata training induces substantial metabolic and cardiovascular adaptations within a significantly shorter time frame (Tabata, 2019). This time-efficient method is particularly advantageous for badminton players, who require rapid energy turnover, repeated high-intensity efforts, and efficient use of limited training time. A previous review suggested that Tabata training is effective in improving anaerobic endurance in elite athletes; however, it has limited effects on muscle strength and peak power output (Tabata, 2019). To achieve better results without extending the session duration, it is essential to update the current Tabata training methods.

One potential method is to combine blood flow restriction (BFR) with Tabata training. BFR training involves using devices like blood pressure cuffs or elastic wraps on the proximal limb muscles to restrict arterial blood flow during exercise, slowing venous return (Patterson et al., 2019). The principal physiological mechanisms underlying BFR training include the induction of localized muscular hypoxia and the accumulation of metabolic byproducts, notably lactate, due to controlled reductions in muscular perfusion (Freitas et al., 2021). Such physiological alterations activate metabolic and neuromuscular signaling pathways, ultimately enhancing protein synthesis and augmenting metabolic adaptations (Castilla-López et al., 2022). A number of studies have shown that BFR combined with low-intensity aerobic exercises or resistance training effectively improves aerobic capacity and muscle strength in athletes (Chang et al., 2022; Lavigne et al., 2024). These studies reported that such BFR interventions could enhance oxidative enzyme activity, increase V̇O2max, prolong time to exhaustion, and promote both muscle hypertrophy and strength (Abe et al., 2010; Scott et al., 2017).

However, the effects of BFR combined with HIIT (BFRIT) on anaerobic capacity are still controversial. For example, Amani-Shalamzari et al. (2020) and Behringer et al. (2017) reported that BFRIT significantly improved V̇O2max, anaerobic running capacity, and sprint performance (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020; Behringer et al., 2017). Conversely, other studies have suggested that 4–5 weeks of BFRIT fail to improve 30-s Wingate anaerobic power (Held et al., 2020; Mitchell et al., 2019). A systematic review by Chua et al. (2022) indicated that the enhancement of anaerobic capacity by BFRIT was affected by training level, training intensity, and the specific training program (Chua et al., 2022). To our knowledge, no study has investigated the effects of blood flow restriction combined with Tabata training (BFR-Tabata) on anaerobic capacity in male badminton players.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of BFR-Tabata training on the anaerobic capacity of male badminton players, comparing it to traditional Tabata training. The hypotheses were as follows: compared to Tabata, 1) BFR-Tabata training significantly improves anaerobic capacity (peak power [PP], average power [AP], fatigue index [FI], time to peak [TTP]) in male badminton players; 2) BFR-Tabata training significantly improves lower-limb explosive strength (squat jump [SJ] and countermovement jump [CMJ]).

2 Materials and methods

2.1 Participants

Thirty male collegiate badminton players (age: 20.4 ± 1.2 years; body mass: 72.6 ± 3.2 kg; height: 178.5 ± 7.2 cm) participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to either the BFR-Tabata group (n = 15) or the Tabata group (n = 15). All participants were healthy, non-smokers, and not taking any medications or supplements. Eligible male players had competed in the quarterfinals of the National Junior Competition, achieving a top-six ranking in individual events or a top-two ranking in team events at the provincial level or higher. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Sports Science Experiment of Beijing Sport University (No. 2025158H), and all procedures were conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Before the experiment, participants were informed of the benefits and potential risks related to the study, and all signed the informed consent form.

Sample size estimation was based on a study by Amani-Shalamzari et al. (2020), which reported an effect size of 0.66 for anaerobic performance (peak power [PP]) (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020). Since anaerobic capacity was the primary outcome, power analysis relied on PP. Using G*Power, we determined that 14 participants (7 per group) were needed for a significance level (α = 0.05) and a statistical power of 0.95. To account for potential dropouts and ensure reliable analyses across outcomes such as the vertical jump and badminton-specific endurance tests, we recruited a total of 30 participants.

2.2 Study design

This study used a 6-week, single-masked (assessor-blind) randomized controlled trial (Figure 1). Participants were randomly assigned to either the BFR-Tabata group or the Tabata group using a computer-generated block randomization sequence (block size = 4). The allocation sequence was generated by an investigator not involved in participant recruitment or assessment, and the assignments were concealed until interventions were implemented. Outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. The BFR-Tabata and Tabata groups completed the training protocol thrice weekly, allowing for a 24–48-h recovery period between sessions. Training sessions were scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12:10 to 12:40 p.m. or 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. All participants were required to complete a familiarization session to learn the Tabata training protocol and the testing procedures before the intervention. A certified strength and conditioning coach delivered standardized instruction to ensure consistency in the training and evaluation process. To ensure measurement consistency and minimize potential bias, all evaluations were conducted by the same trained assessor throughout the study. All evaluation sessions were conducted at the same time of day for each participant to prevent potential confounding effects related to circadian rhythms. Temperature (21.2 °C ± 0.3 °C) and humidity (29.0% ± 0.4%) were maintained consistently. Participants were instructed to avoid vigorous exercise for 48 h before each evaluation day and refrain from consuming alcohol and caffeine for 24 h before the sessions (Figure 2). All experimental equipment, including the Doppler ultrasonography (Apogee 1,000), bicycle ergometer (Model 894E, Monark, Sweden), and force platform (Kistler Group, Switzerland), was calibrated before each testing session. Calibration procedures were strictly followed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure measurement accuracy and reliability.

Figure 1
Flowchart depicting the clinical trial process. Enrolment assessed 30 participants for eligibility, none were excluded. All were randomized into two groups: BFR-Tabata and Tabata, each with 15 participants. Both groups received their allocated interventions with no discontinuations or losses to follow-up. All participants were analyzed for the primary outcome, with none excluded.

Figure 1. CONSORT flow diagram.

Figure 2
Flowchart showing a study of thirty badminton players. They undergo baseline tests, including vertical jump, Wingate anaerobic, and badminton-specific endurance tests. They are split into two groups: BFR plus Tabata (fifteen players) with sixty percent AOP, and Tabata (fifteen players) with zero percent AOP. Post-tests are conducted afterward.

Figure 2. Experimental procedure. BFR, Blood flow restriction; AOP, arterial occlusion pressure.

2.2.1 Training protocol

Each Tabata session consisted of four sets of specific exercises (Figure 3). Each exercise was executed at maximal intensity for 20 s, followed by a 10-s recovery period, with a 2-min rest interval between sets. Participants in the BFR-Tabata group wore a 5 cm wide KAATSU pneumatic cuff (Kaatsu-Master, KAATSU Global, Japan) that was positioned around each thigh approximately 1–2 cm distal to the inguinal crease (Kim et al., 2012; Hori et al., 2022). The Tabata group followed the same training program but used textile straps that did not apply any effective pressure. Inflate approximately 20 s before the exercise begins, and deflate immediately after completing each set. Before training, we measured arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) at the posterior tibial artery with Doppler ultrasonography (Apogee 1,000). We chose this site because study show valid and reproducible results when using relative pressures with a proximal thigh cuff (Mouser et al., 2018). Participants were in a standing position during this assessment. A pneumatic cuff was then placed around the upper thigh and gradually inflated while the participant remained standing until the Doppler signal indicated a complete cessation of arterial blood flow. The compression pressure was set at 60% of each participant’s AOP, a mid-range value within the recommended 40%–80% range for lower-limb BFR (Patterson et al., 2019), which balances efficacy and tolerability and is consistent with prior evidence-based protocols (Gonzalez Rojas et al., 2024; Bourgeois et al., 2025). To monitor vascular adaptations, AOP was reassessed weekly to monitor vascular adaptations, and BFR pressure was set each week at 60% of that week’s AOP; detailed values are provided in Supplementary Table S1.

Figure 3
Exercise routine diagram showing four sets of exercises labeled set 1 to set 4. Each set includes exercises such as squat jump, alternating lunge jump, burpee, high-knee sprints, lateral lunge, mountain climbers, jumping lunge, plyometric lunge, jumping jack, and others. Each set involves performing 8 exercises for 20 seconds with a 10-second rest between them, and a 2-minute rest between sets. The sets include variations like BFR-Tabata and Tabata with different levels of arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) noted as 60% and 0%.

Figure 3. Training protocol. BFR, Blood flow restriction; AOP, arterial occlusion pressure.

2.2.2 Outcomes measurement

2.2.2.1 Primary outcomes
2.2.2.1.1 Wingate anaerobic test

Participants performed a 30-s Wingate anaerobic test on a stationary bicycle ergometer (Model 894E, Monark, Sweden) to obtain measures of peak power (PP), average power (AP), time to peak (TTP), and fatigue index (FI). Participants first completed a 10-min warm-up that included easy riding and dynamic stretching. After the warm-up, participants performed a 30-s all-out Wingate with the braking force set at 7.5% of body mass, consistent with prior studies (Yaprak, 2020; Ko et al., 2021). The assessors provided encouragement during the test to help participants perform their best. The test–retest reliability of the Wingate anaerobic test has been established in previous study, with ICC typically ranging from 0.85 to 0.98 across key performance variables such as PP, AP, and FI (Malone et al., 2014).

2.2.2.1.2 Badminton-specific endurance test

We adopted a previously developed badminton-specific endurance test with established test–retest reliability: Ando et al. (2024) reported CVs of 11.9% for blood lactate and 1.5% for reach time, indicating good reproducibility (Ando et al., 2024). We set up four markers at designated locations on a standard badminton court. The participants began at the midpoint of the half-court and touched the markers in a specified order. The sequence was as follows: 1) move to the right front marker and return to the center point; 2) move to the left front marker and return to the center point; 3) move to the left back marker and return to the center point; 4) move to the right back marker and return to the center point. Participants repeated this sequence for 30 s, recording the total number of completed moves (Figure 4).

Figure 4
Court diagram for a badminton direction drill. Four cones are placed diagonally 70 centimeters from a central point, forming an X shape. Arrows indicate movement directions between the cones, with a figure holding a racket at one position. A box shows numbered directional instructions.

Figure 4. Badminton-specific endurance test.

2.2.2.2 Secondary outcomes
2.2.2.2.1 Vertical jump test (SJ and CMJ)

We utilized a force platform (Kistler Group, Switzerland) to assess squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) in participants. The test–retest reliability of both SJ and CMJ has been established in previous study. Markovic et al. (2004) reported high intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC = 0.97 for SJ and ICC = 0.98 for CMJ) (Markovic et al., 2004).

The SJ test was utilized to assess the concentric muscle contraction ability. Participants were instructed to maintain a static position with their knees flexed at a 90° angle, as verified by a dynamic joint goniometer. After a 2-s pause, they were required to perform a forceful vertical jump without any preparatory squatting movements (Van Hooren and Zolotarjova, 2017).

The CMJ test was used to assess the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) ability. Participants began in an upright position and, upon hearing an audible signal, performed a knee flexion before jumping vertically to reach maximum height. They were instructed to land on a force platform positioned in the center. Additionally, participants were told to keep both hands fixed on their iliac crests throughout the exercise (gözlükaya Girginer et al., 2024).

Participants completed three maximal effort jumps, and the highest jump height was chosen for analysis in both the SJ and CMJ tests (Claudino et al., 2017). A standardized rest interval of 180 s was implemented between jumps. The assessors provided verbal feedback to help participants achieve their best performance.

2.3 Statistical analysis

All variables were tested for normality using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and the homogeneity of variances was assessed with Levene’s test. Data were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS statistical package (version 25.0, IBM Statistics, Chicago, IL). A two-way repeated measures ANOVA with a 2 (time: pre–post intervention) × 2 (group: experimental–control) design was conducted to examine both within- and between-group differences. The effect size was expressed as partial eta squared (ηp2), with thresholds defined as small (0.01 ≤ ηp2 ≤ 0.06), moderate (0.06 ≤ ηp2 < 0.14), and large (ηp2 ≥ 0.14) (Cohen, 2013). For significant interaction, pairwise comparison was conducted to find any possible mean differences, with their p-values adjusted via Bonferroni methods. In cases where the assumption of sphericity was violated, the Greenhouse-Geisser correction was applied. Cohen’s d (reported as absolute values) was calculated to quantify effect sizes (d) for within-group pre–post comparisons and between-group comparisons, with the following thresholds: trivial (d < 0.2), small (0.2 ≤ d < 0.6), moderate (0.6 ≤ d < 1.2), large (1.2 ≤ d < 2.0), very large (2.0 ≤ d < 4.0), and extremely large (d ≥ 4.0) (Hopkins et al., 2009). A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

3 Results

All 30 participants completed the training intervention, resulting in a 100% adherence rate. Throughout the intervention, no adverse events occurred, and no participants reported subjective discomfort. The results of Shapiro-Wilk and Levene’s test showed that when considering that the calculated significance value was more than five hundredths, the assumption of normality of data distribution and homogeneity of variances were met.

3.1 Primary outcomes

3.1.1 Wingate anaerobic test

3.1.1.1 PP

There was a significant main effect of time (F = 165.91, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.86) and interaction (F = 95.14, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.77). After the training period, both groups significant improved (BFR-Tabata: p < 0.01, d = 2.99, 95% CI: [1.78 to 4.19]; Tabata: p = 0.04, d = 1.80, 95% CI: [0.96 to 2.62]), and a significant between-group difference was observed (p = 0.01, d = 1.11, 95% CI: [0.33 to 1.88]) (Figure 5a) (Table 1).

Figure 5
Bar charts labeled (a) to (d) compare pre- and post-training effects of BFR-Tabata and Tabata routines. Charts show peak power (PP), average power (AP), time to peak (TTP), and fatigue index (FI). Pre-values are circles; post-values are triangles. Significant differences are marked with * and #.

Figure 5. Effect of BFR-Tabata on the Wingate anaerobic test. Mean ± SD. (a) PP, peak power; (b) AP, average power; (c) TTP, time to peak; (d) FI, fatigue index. *: compared with pre significant difference; #: between-group significant difference.

Table 1
www.frontiersin.org

Table 1. Effects of BFR-Tabata training on anaerobic capacity in badminton players.

3.1.1.2 AP

There was a significant main effect of time (F = 658.38, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.96) and interaction (F = 369.06, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.93). After the training period, both groups significantly improved (BFR-Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 6.93, 95% CI: [4.34 to 9.52]; Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 1.47, 95% CI: [0.73 to 2.19]), and a significant between-group difference was observed (p < 0.001, d = 1.51, 95% CI: [0.68 to 2.32]) (Figure 5b).

3.1.1.3 TTP

There was a significant main effect of time (F = 799.09, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.97), group (F = 6.25, p = 0.02, ηp2 = 0.18), and interaction (F = 186.33, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.87). After the training period, both groups significantly improved (BFR-Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 5.56, 95% CI: [3.46 to 7.65]; Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 8.18, 95% CI: 5.14–11.21), and a significant between-group difference was observed (p < 0.001, d = 2.10, 95% CI: [1.19 to 2.99]) (Figure 5c).

3.1.1.4 FI

The statistical analysis revealed no significant main effect of time for FI (F = 3.72, p = 0.06, ηp2 = 0.12), no significant main effect of group (F = 0.14, p = 0.71, ηp2 = 0.001), and no significant interaction effect (F = 1.70, p = 0.20, ηp2 = 0.06) (Figure 5d).

3.1.2 Badminton-specific endurance test

There was a significant main effect of time (F = 152.91, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.85) and interaction (F = 18.18, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.39). After the training period, both groups significantly improved (BFR-Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 2.46, 95% CI: [1.42 to 3.49]; Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 2.13, 95% CI: [1.19 to 3.05]), and a significant between-group difference was observed (p = 0.02, d = 0.92, 95% CI: [0.16 to 1.67]) (Figure 6) (Table 1).

Figure 6
Bar chart comparing badminton-specific endurance test results for BFR-Tabata and Tabata groups, with pre-training marked by circles and post-training by triangles. Significant improvements are indicated by asterisks and a hash symbol, with values increasing from approximately 20 to 25 for both groups.

Figure 6. Effect of BFR-Tabata on the badminton-specific endurance test. Mean ± SD; *: compared with pre significant difference; #: Between-group significant difference.

3.2 Secondary outcomes

3.2.1 Vertical jump test

3.2.1.1 SJ

There was a significant main effect of time (F = 74.04, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.73) and interaction (F = 74.04, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.73). After the training period, the BFR-Tabata group significantly improved (p < 0.001, d = 3.53, 95% CI: [2.13 to 4.91]), whereas the Tabata group showed no significant change (p = 0.99, d = 0.00, 95% CI: [-0.51 to 0.51]), and no significant between-group difference was observed (p = 0.56, d = 0.21, 95% CI: [-0.50 to 0.93]) (Figure 7a) (Table 1).

Figure 7
Bar graphs illustrating two tests: (a) shows SJ results and (b) shows CMJ results, comparing pre and post conditions for BFR-Tabata and Tabata. Bars indicate means, and dots/triangles represent individual data points. Asterisks denote statistical significance.

Figure 7. Effect of BFR-Tabata on the vertical jump test. Mean ± SD. (a) SJ, squat jump; (b) CMJ, countermovement jump. *: compared with pre significant difference; #: between-group significant difference.

3.2.1.2 CMJ

There was a significant main effect of time (F = 193.98, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.87) and interaction (F = 58.82, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.68). After the training period, both groups significantly improved (BFR-Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 3.92, 95% CI: [2.39 to 5.43]; Tabata: p < 0.001, d = 1.15, 95% CI: [0.48 to 1.80]), and no significant between-group difference was observed (p = 0.50, d = 0.25, 95% CI: [-0.47 to 0.96]) (Figure 7b).

4 Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effects of 6 weeks of BFR-Tabata training on anaerobic capacity in male badminton players. The findings indicate that BFR-Tabata training significantly enhances specialized anaerobic endurance compared to Tabata training alone, but has limited enhancement of lower-limb explosive strength.

The improvement in badminton-specific endurance performance may be attributable to enhancements in anaerobic endurance. Previous studies indicate that BFR training can induce localized hypoxia, increasing reliance on anaerobic glycolysis and elevating blood lactate concentration. (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020; Thompson et al., 2024; Li et al., 2023; Y et al., 2021). For instance, Thompson et al. (2024) demonstrated that 4 weeks of BFR-rowing intervention significantly increased lactate levels in elite rowers (Thompson et al., 2024); while Amani-Shalamzari et al. (2020) similarly reported higher blood lactate concentrations in BFR groups compared to controls (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020). Meanwhile, chronic BFRIT has been reported to delay the onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) (de Oliveira et al., 2016), suggesting improved lactate clearance and, consequently, greater lactate tolerance. This process may involve adaptations in glucose uptake and mitochondrial function. Relevant fundamental research has proposed that the hypoxia-induced upregulation of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) caused by BFR plays a pivotal role in enhancing muscle glucose extraction, thereby promoting glycogen storage, facilitating cross-membrane glucose transport, improving lactate metabolism (Burgomaster et al., 2003; Christi et al., 2019). Therefore, we speculate that the observed increase in anaerobic capacity in this study may be related to enhanced lactate tolerance. Current research primarily focus on peripheral mechanisms (Chua et al., 2022; Yin et al., 2025), with the FI utilized in this study predominantly reflecting peripheral fatigue. Future research should explore central mechanisms, including neural activation and changes related to electroencephalography, to enhance our understanding of the anti-fatigue effects of BFR training.

The finding of this study is consistent with previous studies that found BFRIT to be effective in enhancing AP in athletes (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020; Bourgeois et al., 2025; Park et al., 2010). Amani-Shalamzari et al. (2020) used BFR in small-sided games (SSG) training, resulting in improved AP in Futsal players after 3 weeks (10 sessions) (Lavigne et al., 2024). This is supported by a recent report from Bourgeois et al. (2025), which found that 3 weeks of BFRIT significantly improved both AP and total work in male endurance athletes (Bourgeois et al., 2025). However, McKee et al. (2023) suggested that less than 6 weeks of BFRIT do not improve AP in amateur male team-sport players (Mckee et al., 2023). A meta-analysis showed that training protocols (e.g., training durations, training status) are moderators that influence physiological adaptations in BFRIT-enhanced athletes (Yin et al., 2025). Future research should investigate how training status (e.g., elite and amateur athletes) and durations (e.g., greater than 6 weeks or less than 6 weeks) affect training outcomes.

This study found that BFRIT was able to improve PP, which is in contrast to previous studies. A meta-analysis indicated that BFRIT did not show a statistically significant benefit over traditional interval training (IT) in enhancing PP(50). Taylor et al. (2016) and Mitchell et al. (2019) showed similar PP improvements in both BFR and control groups, with no significant between-group differences. The training duration (e.g., 3–4 weeks) and number of sessions used in previous studies (Mitchell et al., 2019; Taylor et al., 2016) may not be adequate to increase PP compared to our training protocol. This study used the BFR-Tabata protocol, featuring eight 20-s all-out efforts with 10-s rests. This approach led to a higher training intensity than previous SIT protocols (Mitchell et al., 2019; Taylor et al., 2016), which consisted of 30-s sprints followed by 4.5-min recoveries. The BFR pressure setting may affect training effectiveness. This study employed individualized pressure settings based on each participant’s arterial occlusion pressure (AOP), thereby standardizing the relative restriction stimulus across individuals. In contrast, previous studies implemented fixed pressure protocols (Mitchell et al., 2019; Taylor et al., 2016), which may have introduced inter-individual variability in vascular occlusion, potentially attenuating the efficacy and consistency of the BFR stimulus (Patterson et al., 2019).

This study observes that the BFR-Tabata group demonstrated a greater improvement in TTP than the Tabata group. We speculate that this enhancement may be related to greater recruitment of type II fibers and muscle hypertrophy under BFR, as previous research has shown that BFR training can enhance neural activation and facilitate type II motor unit engagement (Wang et al., 2023). Furthermore, the temporary increase in growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and testosterone from BFR creates an anabolic environment for muscle growth (Y et al., 2021; Li et al., 2022). Interestingly, our study found no significant changes in the FI for either group. One plausible explanation is that the Wingate test, as a single maximal effort, may not effectively reflect adaptations in fatigue resistance typically induced by interval-based training (W et al., 2025). These modalities primarily enhance recovery between repeated bouts rather than sustaining power in a single all-out effort (W et al., 2025). Thus, the lack of change in FI likely reflects a mismatch between training adaptations and the test characteristics.

Another important finding was that BFR-Tabata did not further enhance lower limb explosive strength compared to previous studies (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020; Park et al., 2010; Mckee et al., 2023; Elgammal et al., 2020; Tangchaisuriya et al., 2021). This discrepancy could be attributed to interval recovery time. Using a 10-s recovery period during BFR-Tabata training may be detrimental to skeletal muscle anabolism. Amani-Shalamzari et al. discovered that combining BFR with SSG training, which consists of 3-min repetitive sprints followed by 2-min rests, effectively improved athletes’ muscular strength (Amani-Shalamzari et al., 2020). Elgammal et al. observed comparable findings when implementing a 4-week BFR + repeated sprint training (RST) program consisting of three weekly sessions (Elgammal et al., 2020). SSG and RST typically involve interval recovery time, which increase muscle strength adaptations (Yin et al., 2025). Sufficient recovery time between intervals helps reduce skeletal muscle fatigue and enhances explosiveness in the lower extremities (Loenneke et al., 2015). In contrast, the BFR-Tabata protocol may have resulted in insufficient cumulative ischemic stimulus, thereby attenuating the extent of muscle adaptation. This is supported by the findings of Abe et al. (2009), who demonstrated that performing BFR walking once daily yielded approximately half the improvements in muscular strength and hypertrophy compared to a twice-daily training frequency (Abe et al., 2009). De Oliveira et al. reported that although the BFRIT group incorporated BFR during training, the BFR component accounted for only 50% of the training volume compared to the BFR-only group. This reduced exposure likely resulted in insufficient cumulative mechanical and metabolic stress, thereby failing to elicit significant improvements in muscle strength (de Oliveira et al., 2016). In summary, the choice of training modality should be closely matched to the targeted adaptation. For a training goal aimed at enhancing lower limb explosive strength, the BFR-Tabata mode may not be sufficient. Future research could further explore the effects of combining different intermittent durations with BFR. It has been shown that BFR combined with resistance training exhibits more significant effects in enhancing dynamic muscle strength (Moore et al., 2004; Yasuda et al., 2011).

5 Limitations

The interpretation of the findings should consider potential limitations. First, while various mechanisms, such as metabolic stress, fast-twitch fiber recruitment, and hormonal regulation, were suggested, no physiological markers were measured directly. For better validation, future studies should include muscle biopsies, enzyme activity assessments, and hormone level evaluations. The absence of acute-session blood lactate and standardized intensity metrics (e.g., %V̇O2max, %HRmax, RPE) limits the physiological interpretation of our findings. Additionally, this study included only male participants, limiting generalizability; given the larger hormonal fluctuations in females that can influence experimental outcomes, future research should include female participants. Furthermore, the 6-week intervention period may not have been sufficient to achieve significant physiological adaptations. It is advisable to extend the training duration to obtain more comprehensive training effects. This study is underpowered for detecting interaction effects and smaller outcomes, so it should be interpreted cautiously and confirmed in larger samples. Despite these limitations, this study provides practical insights into BFR-Tabata as an effective training method for badminton players.

6 Conclusion

In conclusion, BFR-Tabata training represents a promising and practical strategy for optimizing anaerobic endurance performance in badminton players. Its capacity to elicit targeted physiological adaptations makes it particularly suitable for elite athletes engaged in high-intensity, intermittent sports, supporting its integration into advanced training programs. However, it has a limited effect on lower limb explosive strength (CMJ/SJ) enhancement. Further research is needed to explore the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms of BFR-Tabata training, including hormonal responses, muscle oxygenation, and metabolic biomarkers, to better understand its specific adaptive pathways in elite athletes.

Data availability statement

The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/Supplementary Material, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding authors.

Ethics statement

The studies involving humans were approved by Ethics Committee of Sports Science Experiment of Beijing Sport University. The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. The participants provided their written informed consent to participate in this study.

Author contributions

YX: Methodology, Supervision, Writing – review and editing, Writing – original draft, Formal Analysis, Software, Investigation, Visualization, Data curation, Resources, Conceptualization, Validation, Project administration. XZ: Project administration, Formal Analysis, Validation, Methodology, Data curation, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Software, Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing, Resources, Visualization, Investigation. KZ: Methodology, Writing – original draft, Supervision, Data curation, Writing – review and editing. LJ: Writing – review and editing, Investigation, Writing – original draft, Data curation, Methodology. BS: Data curation, Writing – review and editing, Methodology, Writing – original draft. SX: Writing – review and editing, Writing – original draft, Supervision. ZS: Writing – review and editing, Writing – original draft. JD: Writing – review and editing, Writing – original draft.

Funding

The author(s) declare that no financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Generative AI statement

The author(s) declare that Generative AI was used in the creation of this manuscript. The authors used ChatGPT-4o (OpenAI, 2024) for linguistic enhancement in the Introduction and Conclusion sections. This was done by rephrasing author-written sentences using the prompt: “Rewrite this sentence in an academic language: [SENTENCE]”. The AI-generated text was subsequently reviewed and edited by the authors. All scientific content, analysis, and interpretations were independently written by the authors without the involvement of AI.

Any alternative text (alt text) provided alongside figures in this article has been generated by Frontiers with the support of artificial intelligence and reasonable efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, including review by the authors wherever possible. If you identify any issues, please contact us.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Supplementary material

The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2025.1656050/full#supplementary-material

References

Abe T., Cf K., Fujita S., Sakamaki M., Sato Y., Wf B. (2009). Skeletal muscle size and strength are increased following walk training with restricted leg muscle blood flow: implications for training duration and frequency. Int. J. KAATSU Train. Res. 5 (1), 9–15. doi:10.3806/ijktr.5.9

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Abe T., Fujita S., Nakajima T., Sakamaki M., Ozaki H., Ogasawara R., et al. (2010). Effects of low-intensity cycle training with restricted leg blood flow on thigh muscle volume and VO2max in young men. J. sports Sci. and Med. 9 (3), 452–458.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

Amani-Shalamzari S., Sarikhani A., Paton C., Rajabi H., Bayati M., Nikolaidis P. T., et al. (2020). Occlusion training during specific futsal training improves aspects of physiological and physical performance. J. sports Sci. and Med. 19 (2), 374–382.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

Ando R., Hoshikawa Y., Iizuka T., Suita M., Kameda M., Nakashima H., et al. (2024). Difference in badminton-specific endurance evaluated by a newly developed on-court test between competitive levels: a pilot study of female players. Physiol. Rep. 12 (10), e16058. doi:10.14814/phy2.16058

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

BaiQuan Y., Meng C., Congqing Z., XiaoDong W. (2025). The effects and post-exercise energy metabolism characteristics of different high-intensity interval training in Obese adults. Sci. Rep. 15 (1), 13770. doi:10.1038/s41598-025-98590-z

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Behringer M., Behlau D., Montag J. C., McCourt M. L., Mester J. (2017). Low-intensity sprint training with blood flow restriction improves 100-m dash. J. Strength and Cond. Res. 31 (9), 2462–2472. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001746

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Bourgeois H., Paradis-Deschênes P., Billaut F. (2025). High-intensity interval training with blood-flow restriction enhances sprint and maximal aerobic power in Male endurance athletes. Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. 50, 1–11. doi:10.1139/apnm-2024-0378

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Burgomaster K. A., Moore D. R., Schofield L. M., Phillips S. M., Sale D. G., Gibala M. J. (2003). Resistance training with vascular occlusion: metabolic adaptations in human muscle. Med. and Sci. Sports and Exerc. 35 (7), 1203–1208. doi:10.1249/01.MSS.0000074458.71025.71

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Castilla-López C., Molina-Mula J., Romero-Franco N. (2022). Blood flow restriction during training for improving the aerobic capacity and sport performance of trained athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J. Exerc. Sci. and Fit. 20 (2), 190–197. doi:10.1016/j.jesf.2022.03.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Chang H., Yao M., Chen B., Qi Y., Zhang J. (2022). Effects of blood flow restriction combined with low-intensity resistance training on lower-limb muscle strength and mass in post-middle-aged adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 19 (23), 15691. doi:10.3390/ijerph192315691

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Christiansen D., Eibye K. H., Hostrup M., Bangsbo J. (2019). Blood flow-restricted training enhances thigh glucose uptake during exercise and muscle antioxidant function in humans. Metabolism 98, 1–15. doi:10.1016/j.metabol.2019.06.003

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Chua M. T., Sim A., Burns S. F. (2022). Acute and chronic effects of blood flow restricted high-intensity interval training: a systematic review. Sports Medicine-Open 8 (1), 122. doi:10.1186/s40798-022-00506-y

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Claudino J. G., Cronin J., Mezêncio B., McMaster D. T., McGuigan M., Tricoli V., et al. (2017). The countermovement jump to monitor neuromuscular status: a meta-analysis. J. Sci. Med. Sport 20 (4), 397–402. doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2016.08.011

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Cohen J. (2013). Statistical power analysis for the behavioral sciences. Routledge.

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

de Oliveira M. F.Md, Caputo F., Corvino R. B., Denadai B. S. (2016). Short-term low-intensity blood flow restricted interval training improves both aerobic fitness and muscle strength. Scand. J. Med. and Sci. Sports 26 (9), 1017–1025. doi:10.1111/sms.12540

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Donie D., Kiram Y., Hermanzoni H., Edmizal E. (2021). The effectiveness of footwork exercises with the HIIT method in developing VO2max and anaerobic capacity. AL-ISHLAH J. Pendidik. 13 (2), 998–1005. doi:10.35445/alishlah.v13i2.803

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Edel A., Vuong J. L., Kaufmann S., Hoos O., Wiewelhove T., Ferrauti A. (2024). Metabolic profile in elite badminton match play and training drills. Eur. J. Sport Sci. 24 (11), 1639–1652. doi:10.1002/ejsc.12196

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Elgammal M., Hassan I., Eltanahi N., Ibrahim H. (2020). The effects of repeated sprint training with blood flow restriction on strength, anaerobic and aerobic performance in basketball. Int. J. Hum. Mov. Sports Sci. 8 (6), 462–468. doi:10.13189/saj.2020.080619

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Franchini E., Cormack S., Takito M. Y. (2019). Effects of high-intensity interval training on olympic combat sports athletes' performance and physiological adaptation: a systematic review. J. Strength and Cond. Res. 33 (1), 242–252. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000002957

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Freitas E. D., Karabulut M., Bemben M. G. (2021). The evolution of blood flow restricted exercise. Front. Physiology 12, 747759. doi:10.3389/fphys.2021.747759

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Göktepe A. S. (2007) “Energy systems in sports,” in Amputee sports for victims of terrorism. Amsterdam, Netherlands: IOS Press, 24–31.

Google Scholar

Gonzalez Rojas D. H., Wizenberg A. M., Rivera P. M., Proppe C. E., Lawson J. E., Stock M. S., et al. (2024). Acute effects of sprint interval training and blood flow restriction on neuromuscular and muscle function. J. Musculoskelet. Neuronal Interact. 24 (1), 38–46.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

Gözlükaya Gi̇rgi̇ner F., Soyugür B., Alemdaroğlu B. U. (2024). Futbolcularda fransız kontrast yönteminin aktivasyon sonrası performans artışına etkisi: Deneysel araştırma. Turkiye Klinikleri J. Sports Sci. 16 (2).

Google Scholar

Held S., Behringer M., Donath L. (2020). Low intensity rowing with blood flow restriction over 5 weeks increases V̇O2max in elite rowers: a randomized controlled trial. J. Sci. Med. Sport 23 (3), 304–308. doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2019.10.002

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hong Y., Wang S. J., Lam W. K., Cheung J. T.-M. (2014). Kinetics of badminton lunges in four directions. J. Appl. Biomechanics 30 (1), 113–118. doi:10.1123/jab.2012-0151

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hopkins W., Marshall S., Batterham A., Hanin J. (2009). Progressive statistics for studies in sports medicine and exercise science. Medicine+ Sci. Sports+ Exerc. 41 (1), 3–13. doi:10.1249/MSS.0b013e31818cb278

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hori A., Saito R., Suijo K., Kushnick M. R., Hasegawa D., Ishida K., et al. (2022). Blood flow restriction accelerates aerobic training-induced adaptation of [formula: see text] kinetics at the onset of moderate-intensity exercise. Sci. Rep. 12 (1), 18160. doi:10.1038/s41598-022-22852-3

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hoshino D., Kitaoka Y., Hatta H. (2016). High-intensity interval training enhances oxidative capacity and substrate availability in skeletal muscle. J. Phys. Fit. Sports Med. 5 (1), 13–23. doi:10.7600/jpfsm.5.13

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kim S., Sherk V. D., Bemben M. G., Bemben D. A. (2012). Effects of short term low intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction on bone markers and muscle cross-sectional area in young men. Int. J. Exerc. Sci. 5 (2), 136–147. doi:10.70252/dgij7171

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ko D. H., Choi Y. C., Lee D. S. (2021). The effect of short-term wingate-based high intensity interval training on anaerobic power and isokinetic muscle function in adolescent badminton players. Child. (Basel) 8 (6), 458. doi:10.3390/children8060458

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Lavigne C., Mons V., Grange M., Blain G. M. (2024). Acute neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and muscle oxygenation responses to low-intensity aerobic interval exercises with blood flow restriction. Exp. Physiol. 109 (8), 1353–1369. doi:10.1113/EP091742

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Li S., Li S., Wang L., Quan H., Yu W., Li T., et al. (2022). The effect of blood flow restriction exercise on angiogenesis-related factors in skeletal muscle among healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front. Physiol. 13, 814965. doi:10.3389/fphys.2022.814965

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Li S., Guo R., Wang J., Zheng X., Zhao S., Zhang Z., et al. (2023). The effect of blood flow restriction exercise on N-lactoylphenylalanine and appetite regulation in Obese adults: a cross-design study. Front. Endocrinol. (Lausanne) 14, 1289574. doi:10.3389/fendo.2023.1289574

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Loenneke J. P., Kim D., Fahs C. A., Thiebaud R. S., Abe T., Larson R. D., et al. (2015). Effects of exercise with and without different degrees of blood flow restriction on torque and muscle activation. Muscle and Nerve 51 (5), 713–721. doi:10.1002/mus.24448

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Malone J. K., Blake C., Caulfield B. (2014). Test-retest reliability of the 30-sec wingate cycle test in a trained Male cohort. Isokinet. Exerc. Sci. 22 (3), 251–258. doi:10.3233/ies-140546

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Markovic G., Dizdar D., Jukic I., Cardinale M. (2004). Reliability and factorial validity of squat and countermovement jump tests. J. Strength and Cond. Res. 18 (3), 551–555. doi:10.1519/1533-4287(2004)18<551:RAFVOS>2.0.CO;2

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mckee J. R., Girard O., Peiffer J. J., Hiscock D. J., De Marco K., Scott B. R. (2023). Repeated-sprint training with blood-flow restriction improves repeated-sprint ability similarly to unrestricted training at reduced external loads. Int. J. Sports Physiology Perform. 19 (3), 257–264. doi:10.1123/ijspp.2023-0321

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mitchell E. A., Martin N. R., Turner M. C., Taylor C. W., Ferguson R. A. (2019). The combined effect of sprint interval training and postexercise blood flow restriction on critical power, capillary growth, and mitochondrial proteins in trained cyclists. J. Appl. Physiology 126 (1), 51–59. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.01082.2017

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Moore D. R., Burgomaster K. A., Schofield L. M., Gibala M. J., Sale D. G., Phillips S. M. (2004). Neuromuscular adaptations in human muscle following low intensity resistance training with vascular occlusion. Eur. J. Appl. Physiology 92, 399–406. doi:10.1007/s00421-004-1072-y

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mouser J. G., Dankel S. J., Mattocks K. T., Jessee M. B., Buckner S. L., Abe T., et al. (2018). Blood flow restriction and cuff width: effect on blood flow in the legs. Clin. Physiology Funct. Imaging 38 (6), 944–948. doi:10.1111/cpf.12504

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Park S., Kim J. K., Choi H. M., Kim H. G., Beekley M. D., Nho H. (2010). Increase in maximal oxygen uptake following 2-week walk training with blood flow occlusion in athletes. Eur. J. Appl. Physiology 109 (4), 591–600. doi:10.1007/s00421-010-1377-y

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Patterson S. D., Hughes L., Warmington S., Burr J., Scott B. R., Owens J., et al. (2019). Blood flow restriction exercise: considerations of methodology, application, and safety. Front. Physiology 10, 533. doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00533

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Phomsoupha M., Laffaye G. (2015). The science of badminton: game characteristics, anthropometry, physiology, visual fitness and biomechanics. Sports Med. 45, 473–495. doi:10.1007/s40279-014-0287-2

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Scott B. R., Peiffer J. J., Goods P. S. (2017). The effects of supplementary low-load blood flow restriction training on morphological and performance-based adaptations in team sport athletes. J. Strength and Cond. Res. 31 (8), 2147–2154. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001671

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Shariff A., George J., Ramlan A. (2009). Musculoskeletal injuries among Malaysian badminton players. Singap. Med. J. 50 (11), 1095–1097.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

Suppiah P. K., Joummy A. J., Samsir M. S., Mariappan M., Noordin H., Nor Azmi A. M. B. (2019). in The effects of high intensity functional interval training on selected fitness components among young badminton players. International conference on movement, health and exercise (Springer).

Google Scholar

Tabata I. (2019). Tabata training: one of the Most energetically effective high-intensity intermittent training methods. J. Physiological Sci. 69 (4), 559–572. doi:10.1007/s12576-019-00676-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Tabata I., Nishimura K., Kouzaki M., Hirai Y., Ogita F., Miyachi M., et al. (1996). Effects of moderate-intensity endurance and high-intensity intermittent training on anaerobic capacity and VO2max. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc. 28, 1327–1330. doi:10.1097/00005768-199610000-00018

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Tangchaisuriya P., Chuensiri N., Tanaka H., Suksom D. (2021). Physiological adaptations to high-intensity interval training combined with blood flow restriction in masters road cyclists. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc. 54 (5), 830–840. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000002857

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Taylor C. W., Ingham S. A., Ferguson R. A. (2016). Acute and chronic effect of sprint interval training combined with postexercise blood-flow restriction in trained individuals. Exp. Physiol. 101 (1), 143–154. doi:10.1113/EP085293

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Thompson K. M., Pethick W. A., Clarke J., Winegarden A., Johnson E., Coates A. M., et al. (2024). Blood flow restricted training and time trial performance: a cohort study of world class rowers. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc 56, 1606–1614. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000003459

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Van Hooren B., Zolotarjova J. (2017). The difference between countermovement and squat jump performances: a review of underlying mechanisms with practical applications. J. Strength and Cond. Res. 31 (7), 2011–2020. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001913

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wang S., Tang J., Liu S., Li H., Li Q., Pan L., et al. (2025). Improving of 6 weeks of repeated sprint training on the aerobic and anaerobic power of college-age Male rugby players. Front. Physiol. 16, 1620197. doi:10.3389/fphys.2025.1620197

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wang Y., Li Z., Tongtong C., Zhang W., Li X. (2023). Effect of continuous and intermittent blood flow restriction deep-squat training on thigh muscle activation and fatigue levels in Male handball players. Sci. Rep. 13 (1), 19152. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-44523-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yinghao L., Jing Y., Yongqi W., Jianming Z., Zeng G., Yiting T., et al. (2021). Effects of a blood flow restriction exercise under different pressures on testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor levels. J. Int. Med. Res. 49 (9), 3000605211039564. doi:10.1177/03000605211039564

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yaprak Y. (2020). A comparison of anaerobic performance of sub-elite tennis and badminton players. European Journal of Physical Education and Sport Science. doi:10.5296/jei.v6i1.17022

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yasuda T., Ogasawara R., Sakamaki M., Ozaki H., Sato Y., Abe T. (2011). Combined effects of low-intensity blood flow restriction training and high-intensity resistance training on muscle strength and size. Eur. J. Appl. Physiology 111, 2525–2533. doi:10.1007/s00421-011-1873-8

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yin M., Deng S., Deng J., Xu K., Nassis G. P., Girard O., et al. (2025). Physiological adaptations and performance enhancement with combined blood flow restricted and interval training: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J. Sport Health Sci. 14, 101030. doi:10.1016/j.jshs.2025.101030

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yuan S., Lu Z., Tan S., Zhang Z., Jing S., Liu H., et al. (2025). Comparison of six-week flywheel and traditional resistance training on deceleration and dynamic balance in elite badminton players. Front. Physiology 16, 1491661. doi:10.3389/fphys.2025.1491661

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhang Z., Li S., Wan B., Visentin P., Jiang Q., Dyck M., et al. (2016). The influence of X-Factor (trunk rotation) and experience on the quality of the badminton forehand smash. J. Hum. Kinet. 53, 9–22. doi:10.1515/hukin-2016-0006

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: blood flow restriction, Tabata training, anaerobic capacity, badminton players, lower-limb explosive strength

Citation: Xia Y, Zheng X, Zhou K, Jiang L, Song B, Xu S, Shang Z and Dai J (2025) Effect of six weeks of blood flow restriction combined with Tabata training on anaerobic capacity in male badminton players. Front. Physiol. 16:1656050. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2025.1656050

Received: 29 June 2025; Accepted: 21 October 2025;
Published: 07 November 2025.

Edited by:

José Antonio de Paz, University of León, Spain

Reviewed by:

Cesar Osorio-Fuentealba, Metropolitan University of Educational Sciences, Chile
Shuoqi Li, Nantong University, China
Ayse Ozkan, Izmir Bakircay University, Türkiye

Copyright © 2025 Xia, Zheng, Zhou, Jiang, Song, Xu, Shang and Dai. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Jin Dai, ZGFpamluQGJzdS5lZHUuY24=; Zhangyuting Shang, c2hhbmd6aGFuZzAzMDFAMTYzLmNvbQ==

These authors have contributed equally to this work and share first authorship

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.