Florida Southern College Alumni and Faculty Publish Research On Blood Flow Restriction Exercise as a Training Tool

Florida Southern College's Dr. Erica Marshall, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science, along with Exercise Science alumni Daniela Rincon-Garcia ‘23, Abbey Hafler ‘24, and Rebecca Rodriguez ‘22, have made a significant contribution to the field of exercise science with the publication of their manuscript, "Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Responses Vary Between Blood Flow Restriction Cuff Type.”

Their research explored how cardiovascular responses—heart rate and blood pressure—differ following high-load resistance exercise and blood flow restriction exercise, comparing two cuff types: knee wraps and pneumatic cuffs. The study’s findings highlight the variations in cardiovascular responses between high-load resistance exercise and blood flow restriction exercise in addition to the type of blood flow restriction cuff used, offering important insights for tailoring exercise protocols.

The project was motivated by the growing interest in blood flow restriction exercise as a training tool. Blood flow restriction training has been shown to promote muscle growth and strength with lower loads compared to traditional high-load resistance training. This study sought to fill a gap in understanding how blood flow restriction exercise acutely affects cardiovascular responses and how different cuff types play a role in these effects. The findings could help exercise and health professionals select appropriate [resistance] exercise modalities, as well as blood flow restriction cuff type, advancing effective resistance exercise practices that reduce cardiovascular strain.

The path to publication was both challenging and fulfilling. Recruiting participants and ensuring accurate and consistent data collection presented early obstacles, but the team’s dedication and collaborative approach led to success. Once data was collected, careful analysis and detailed statistical work followed. The manuscript underwent rounds of revisions before its final acceptance for publication.

Dr. Erica Marshall reflected on the process, saying, “It was a fulfilling process to see our hard work culminate in a published article, especially knowing the students had a hands-on role in each stage.”

All three alumni were actively involved in the study and took on distinct roles: Daniela played a key role in participant recruitment, data collection, analysis and writing the manuscript, while Abbey and Rebecca contributed to data collection and analysis. This hands-on experience gave them practical skills in research and scientific writing, preparing them for future success.

This achievement showcases the strength of Florida Southern College’s Exercise Science program and the dedication of its students and faculty. Congratulations to Dr. Marshall, Daniela, Abbey, and Rebecca for their hard work and contribution to advancing the field of exercise science.