For who? athletes
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
Photos courtesy of Kelvin Trautman, English Channel, UK.
KAATSU users come from all walks of life from youth to people as old as 104. But KAATSU users also include plenty of outliers from big-wave tow-in surfers and mountaineers to channel swimmers and Olympians. These extreme athletes use KAATSU for athletic performance, rehabilitation from injury, and recovery from intense workouts.
One KAATSU user - a famed British ice swimmer who lives in South Africa - lives a life on the extremes.
In 2017, Lewis Pugh was named SAB Environmentalist of the Year, included in The Sunday Times Alternative Rich List for people who represent the most inspiring side of humanity, and appointed as an Adjunct Professor of International Law at the University of Cape Town.
In 2015, he received a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) from Plymouth University, was selected by Men's Journal as one of 50 Most Adventurous Men in the World, was named as one of the Greatest Watermen in Open Water Swimming History by the World Open Water Swimming Association and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year.
In 2013, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, was appointed as the United Nations Patron of the Oceans, was inducted in the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, and became an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society.
In 2011, he became a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in London and received the President's Award from the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
Previously, he was appointed as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, awarded the highest honor in South Africa – the Order of Ikhamanga (Gold Class) for his exceptional sporting triumphs, humanitarian feats and creating consciousness about the negative effects of global warming, received the Best Project for the Environment by Beyond Sport Awards, named the Out There Adventurer of the Year, became a Fellow of The Explorers Club in New York, received Sports Adventurer of the Year Award by the French Sports Academy.
In the ocean, he swam 1 km without a wetsuit across the North Pole to highlight the melting of the Arctic sea ice. Up on Mount Everest at 5,300 meter altitude in 2°C water, he swam 1 km across a glacial lake without a wetsuit to draw attention to the melting of the glaciers in the Himalayas. He swam a number of unprecedented swim in the Ross Sea off Antarctica and helped establish the largest marine reserve in the world by melding consensus among 24 nations and the European Union. He has also swum from Robben Island in South Africa, across the English Channel, around Cape Agulhas (the southernmost point in Africa), the Cape of Good Hope, the Cape Peninsula (a 100 km swim from Cape Town to Muizenberg), Lake Malawi in Africa, North Cape (the northernmost point in Europe), 204 km down Norway's Sognefjord, a 1 km at 80° North around Verlegenhuken, a 1 km swim at 65° South at Petermann Island off the Antarctic Peninsula, 325 km down the length of the River Thames, 140 km across the width of the Maldives, and won the 500m race at the 2006 World Winter Swimming Championships in Finland.
After graduating at the top of his Masters class at the University of Cape Town, he read International Law at Jesus College in Cambridge and worked as a maritime lawyer in the City of London while serving in the British Special Air Service. He later spoke twice at the TED Global Conference as a master storyteller and addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos and wrote two books: 'Achieving the Impossible' and '21 Yaks and a Speedo'.
In 2003, Pugh left his maritime law practice to campaign full-time for the protection of the oceans. He often addresses Heads of State and business leaders on the topics of climate change, overfishing and pollution and the need for Marine Protected Areas and low carbon economies. Pugh is currently considered one of the world's most influential individuals tackling plastic pollution - and his influence may increase with his latest exploit - an unprecedented 560 km swim along the length of the English Channel.
Pugh's stage swim is scheduled to start in July and may take up to 50 days to complete.
"We’re drowning in commitments; it is high-time for action,” said Pugh. “I am embarking on this swim to highlight importance of proper marine protected areas – areas where human activity such as fishing, drilling, shipping, gunnery practice and disputing marine life is restricted and/or prohibited.”
The totality of UK waters include 750,000 square kilometers, but only 7 square kilometers are fully protected marine reserve. It within the southernmost coastline where Pugh will conduct his stage swim as a plea to create additional marine protected areas that offer one of the best options to maintain ocean health and avoid further degradation, especially when developed as part of a wider management solution.
Pugh is swimsourcing his Channel swim. “I want politicians, mums, children, businessmen, anyone to join me for any section of the swim. There is nothing better than seeing the impact of our wrongdoing with your own two eyes."
He plans on 10+ km swims per day, but that distance will be dependent upon the conditions that will range from enjoyably tranquil to turbulent.
Surfers Against Sewage, a grass-roots organization engaged in cleaning up beaches in the UK with 75,000 volunteers will support Pugh’s effort.
“We must stop the plastic from entering our rivers and seas. And we must create a series of marine reserves around the UK,” says Pugh who plans to take his swimsourcing campaigns to other shores around the world in the future. "Anyone is welcome to join me for any section of this swim."
The Channel Swimming Association will observe and officially ratify the unprecedented swim.
For more information, follow Pugh here.
Copyright © 2014-2018 by KAATSU Global
KAATSU blog posts testimonials, protocols, case studies, techniques and ideas about KAATSU for recovery, rehabilitation, functional mobility and athletic performance. Statements included in this blog have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Friday, June 22, 2018
David Weinstein And His LifeForce Approach
For who? Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
Courtesy of CEOCFO Magazine.
“Our goal is to awaken human potential by sharing precise effective tools and methods to maximize the health, happiness and performance of people who want to realize their potential," explains David Weinstein of LifeForceIQ.
Weinstein is a successful investment banker with an entrepreneurial DNA in the fields of medicine and biotechnology from Boca Raton, Florida. He had pushed himself hard in business, experiencing its negative effects after he turned 50. He knew he had to transform himself in order to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
"There are extraordinary technologies and concepts most people don't know about that don't just keep you healthy and out of the hospital, but also actually reverse aging," he explained to CEOCFO Magazine.
So Weinstein and his wife Leidy, a competitive body sculptor, founded LifeForceIQ to take these ideas and the technologies they found to others who founded themselves in the same position in life. "The LifeForce approach has four dimensions," Weinstein says. "We can improve your physique and vitality, increase your mental clarity, help you achieve better sleep and recovery, and reduce your stress while boosting your tranquility.
We continuously monitor scientific advances and are quick to adjust products and protocols to assist our clients in optimizing their lifestyles."
We offer LiveO2, a method of breathing higher levels of oxygen during exercise, KAATSU, and Juvent that delivers a low frequency vibration to generate bone growth.
Together with LifeForceIQ, the husband-and-wife team created the Oasis retreat in Boca Raton where visitors can experience the benefits of exercise and nutrition according to the LifeForce approach and receive personalized Life Coaching services.
For more information about LifeforceIQ, visit here.
Copyright © 2014-2018 by KAATSU Global
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
Courtesy of CEOCFO Magazine.
“Our goal is to awaken human potential by sharing precise effective tools and methods to maximize the health, happiness and performance of people who want to realize their potential," explains David Weinstein of LifeForceIQ.
Weinstein is a successful investment banker with an entrepreneurial DNA in the fields of medicine and biotechnology from Boca Raton, Florida. He had pushed himself hard in business, experiencing its negative effects after he turned 50. He knew he had to transform himself in order to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
"There are extraordinary technologies and concepts most people don't know about that don't just keep you healthy and out of the hospital, but also actually reverse aging," he explained to CEOCFO Magazine.
So Weinstein and his wife Leidy, a competitive body sculptor, founded LifeForceIQ to take these ideas and the technologies they found to others who founded themselves in the same position in life. "The LifeForce approach has four dimensions," Weinstein says. "We can improve your physique and vitality, increase your mental clarity, help you achieve better sleep and recovery, and reduce your stress while boosting your tranquility.
We continuously monitor scientific advances and are quick to adjust products and protocols to assist our clients in optimizing their lifestyles."
We offer LiveO2, a method of breathing higher levels of oxygen during exercise, KAATSU, and Juvent that delivers a low frequency vibration to generate bone growth.
Together with LifeForceIQ, the husband-and-wife team created the Oasis retreat in Boca Raton where visitors can experience the benefits of exercise and nutrition according to the LifeForce approach and receive personalized Life Coaching services.
For more information about LifeforceIQ, visit here.
Copyright © 2014-2018 by KAATSU Global
Saturday, June 16, 2018
KAATSU Aqua Strength & Speed Drills
There all kinds of various applications of KAATSU the original BFR. KAATSU Aqua Bosu Ball Kicking with KAATSU Specialist Shotaro Shimazaki at McGaugh Pool in Seal Beach, California doing KAATSU Aqua Bosu Ball sprint kicking (both freestyle and breaststroke) with KAATSU Aqua Bands on legs (with 25 Base SKU + 200 Optimal SKU pressures).
KAATSU Aqua Sit-ups: start horizontal in the water while grabbing onto a Bosu Ball; then climb on top of the Bosu Ball. Do 3 sets to failure.
KAATSU Aqua Triceps Extension with a Water Polo Ball: hold inflated water polo ball with both hands and push ball underwater in 3 sets (doing a number of repetitions sufficient to cause muscular failure) with 20-30 seconds between each set.
KAATSU Aqua Inflated Ball Hold: hold water polo ball underwater with a straight arm while kicking and moving forward.
KAATSU Aqua Double Hand Inflated Ball Hold: hold inflated water polo ball vertically underwater with both hands while kicking forward.
KAATSU Aqua Stationary Core Lifts: move water polo ball left, right, backwards and forwards in 3 sets until failure while attempting to stay stationary and afloat on the surface of the water.
KAATSU Master Specialist David Tawil and Shimazaki move ball underwater with a straight arm (KAATSU Aqua Inflated Ball Vertical Hold), then alternate with KAATSU Aqua Sit-ups.
KAATSU Aqua Recovery Breaststroke: easy pace breaststroke with KAATSU Aqua Bands on.
KAATSU Aqua Sprint Breaststroke Kicking (against wall): do 30 fast breaststroke kicks (first set of 3 with 20-30 seconds rest between sets).
KAATSU Aqua Running Forwards + Backwards: do short runs in shallow water, both forwards and backwards (first set of 3 shown with 20-30 seconds rest between sets).
KAATSU Aqua In-Water Jumps (forwards + backwards in shallow water): do in-water jumps, both forwards and backwards, in shallow water.
KAATSU Aqua In-Water Jumps (forwards + backwards in deeper water): do in-water jumps, both forwards and backwards, in deeper water.
KAATSU Leg Lifts: place back against the wall of the pool and extend arms along the pool's edge. Lift legs slowly and steadily in a variety of movements.
KAATSU Aqua Burpees: 1st lap is butterfly + pull-ups off the diving board performed to muscular failure; 2nd lap is freestyle; 3rd lap is butterfly + push-ups on deck performed to muscular failure; 4th lap is freestyle
Boston-based swimming coach Chris Morgan explains KAATSU Aqua in an interview with Brent Rutemiller of Swimming World Magazine at the 2017 American Swimming Coaches Association World Clinic in Washington D.C.
KAATSU Aqua Sprinting + Pull-ups + Pull-outs + Push-ups
KAATSU Aqua Core: bring legs up and down against the water's resistance.
KAATSU Aqua Eggbeater while holding a weight.
KAATSU Aqua Kicking: use a kickboard or fins, do vertical kicking to stress the legs and core.
KAATSU Aqua Parachuting.
KAATSU Aqua Stationary Sculling: with or without hand paddles.
KAATSU Aqua Sculling: with or without hand paddles.
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
Thursday, June 7, 2018
KAATSU Is The Original BFR
There are two major players in the market created by KAATSU inventor Dr. Yoshiaki Sato in Tokyo: the devices designed and manufactured by KAATSU Global, Inc. (e.g., KAATSU Nano, KAATSU Master 2.0, KAATSU Air Bands, KAATSU B1, KAATSU C3, KAATSU Cycle 2.0) and the Delfi Portable Tourniquet System for Blood Flow Restriction.
There is much confusion and misunderstandings in the marketplace about these two products and approaches. The Delfi product identifies total occlusion pressure and then applies a specific percentage of that pressure during its applications. In contrast, the KAATSU products are not designed to even remotely approach occlusion pressure or do Blood Flow Restriction. This fact was identified by Professor Alyssa Weatherholt of the University of Southern Indiana, Professor William VanWye of Western Kentucky University, and Johnny Owens of Owens Recovery Science (the exclusive distributor of the Delfi Portable Tourniquet System for Blood Flow Restriction equipment) who recently presented a study called Pressure Needed to Achieve Complete Arterial Occlusion: A Comparison of Two Devices Used for Blood Flow Restriction Training [see above].
The researchers concluded a wider cuff of the Delfi Portable Tourniquet System for Blood Flow Restriction is able to restrict arterial blood flow at significantly lower pressures compared to the narrow cuff [KAATSU Air Bands] using the KAATSU Master. The key finding of this study is as follows:
“We were unable to achieve complete arterial occlusion in any participant with the KAATSU cuff.”
The KAATSU equipment was designed and is specifically manufactured to avoid arterial occlusion in the limbs. This fact is precisely why KAATSU was originally defined by Dr. Yoshiaki Sato, the KAATSU inventor, and leading Japanese cardiologists at the University of Tokyo Hospital as a Blood Flow Moderation (BFM) device.
While the vernacular nuance between BFM and BFR may be overlooked by many (venous flow modification versus arterial flow restriction), the modification of venous flow is critical to understanding the safety and goal of KAATSU as certified KAATSU Specialists understand.
"There is no part of the KAATSU protocols that includes as part of its protocols - or tries to achieve - arterial occlusion. This is why KAATSU is definitely not occlusion training, tourniquet training, O-training, or any kind of blood flow restriction modality," explains Steven Munatones. "This is why KAATSU equipment does not use cuffs or bands that are specifically designed to occlude or manufactured to restrict arterial flow. KAATSU Air Bands are not tourniquets or blood pressure cuffs. Rather, the stretchable bands are designed with flexible, elastic air bladders that inflate inwards towards the limb at very moderate pressures to minimally modify venous flow.
This pressure is gentle on the body and uniform because the limb is evenly and safely compressed by a bed of air. This principle and practical engineered solution leads to blood pooling in the limb - not arterial occlusion. This fact was independently determined by researchers and the leading Delfi proponent of BFR.
Furthermore, the patented KAATSU Cycle allows normal arterial and venous flow every 20 seconds which means it is safe, effective and gentle for people of all ages (including up to 104 years - see here).
In summary:
1. The purpose of KAATSU equipment and its protocols is a reduction in venous flow via blood flow moderation, a term first coined in the 1990s by Dr. Sato and Doctors Nakajima and Morita, cardiologists at the University of Tokyo Hospital.
2. The pneumatically controlled KAATSU Air Bands is designed to achieve a reduction in venous flow is a very different approach from BFR and its widely-promoted use of blood pressure cuffs that are specifically designed to achieve limb occlusion.
3. When the KAATSU equipment is used, its users agree to follow the specific protocols as defined by its inventor, Dr. Sato. Specifically, KAATSU protocols and equipment are designed not to occlude.
4. The stretchable, pneumatically controlled KAATSU Air Bands are not (blood pressure) cuffs. A cuff is a term that refers to devices specifically engineered for limb occlusion.
5. KAATSU Specialists understand the importance of users to know both their Base SKU pressure and their Optimal SKU pressure while using in the KAATSU Cycle and KAATSU Training modes. To refer to KAATSU pressure without reference to both Base SKU and Optimal SKU pressures is misleading.
There is another paper written by Jeremy P. Loenneke, Christopher Fahs, Lindy Rossow, Robert Thiebaud, Kevin T. Mattocks, Takashi Abe, and Michael G. Bemben (Blood flow restriction pressure recommendations: a tale of two cuffs) that addresses this subject from another perspective.
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
Crossover Effects Of KAATSU After Accidents
For who? researchers, Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
At the Indiana University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Center for Translational Musculoskeletal Research and the University of Indianapolis Department of Kinesiology, Dr. Alan Mikesky and his research team researched the crossover effects of KAATSU [see Modified KAATSU Training: Adaptations and Subject Perceptions here]. Dr. Mikesky was looking to confirm the systemic effects of KAATSU.
The researchers applied KAATSU Air Bands on only one arm of subjects and tested the strength, girth, tomography scans along with RPE (Rated Perceived Exertion scale) of both arms of the subjects.
The research team correctly did KAATSU and measured both the Base SKU (which they called “Cuff Tightness Pressure in mm Hg"and Optimal SKU (which they called “Cuff Inflation Pressure in mm Hg”) levels.
It should be noted that the SKU levels were conservative for relatively young subjects. The subjects started at 10 Base SKU in Week 1 and increased to 30 Base SKU by Week 8; they started at 90 Base SKU in Week 1 and increased to 180 Base SKU by Week 8. Both the KAATSU arm and the non-KAATSU arm girth increased (measured in cm between Week 0 and Week 8):
Non-KAATSU Arm (cm) girth:
Week 0: 22.7 cm
Week 2: 24.3 cm
Week 4: 24.9 cm
Week 6: 25.7 cm
Week 8: 26.1 cm
KAATSU Arm (cm) girth:
Week 0: 23.0 cm
Week 2: 23.2 cm
Week 4: 24.5 cm
Week 6: 25.4 cm
Week 8: 26.1 cm
The research showed how doing KAATSU on one limb can have crossover (systemic) effects on the other limb - a very important goal for individuals with one injured limb who is trying to recover.
In the United States, a well-known case where this effect was practically demonstrated was with 2010 Olympic silver medalist Todd Lodwick who broke his left arm and torn his ligaments 28 days before the 2014 Winter Olympics. With KAATSU done on his non-injured limbs, he was able to compete admirably well in both the ski jumping and the Nordic combined events after only 5 weeks of KAATSU. His coaching staff noted that Lodwick was getting too muscular after a few weeks of KAATSU - despite his broken bone and torn ligaments. In response, his SKU levels was reduced and he stretched more and did low-pressure, post-workout KAATSU Cycle sets so his muscle hypertrophy was not accelerated (see above). Personally, Lodwick liked the effects and ultimately was able to compete.
In summary, doing KAATSU on healthy limbs can have direct crossover benefits to the strength and girth of an injured limb or core.
Another previous study conducted in Japan is entitled Cross-Transfer Effects of Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction (see here).
Silver medalist Todd Lodwick is shown above doing similar KAATSU Cycle sets after his skiing accident and was able to rehabilitate and recover quickly enough to compete in the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi.
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
At the Indiana University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Center for Translational Musculoskeletal Research and the University of Indianapolis Department of Kinesiology, Dr. Alan Mikesky and his research team researched the crossover effects of KAATSU [see Modified KAATSU Training: Adaptations and Subject Perceptions here]. Dr. Mikesky was looking to confirm the systemic effects of KAATSU.
The researchers applied KAATSU Air Bands on only one arm of subjects and tested the strength, girth, tomography scans along with RPE (Rated Perceived Exertion scale) of both arms of the subjects.
The research team correctly did KAATSU and measured both the Base SKU (which they called “Cuff Tightness Pressure in mm Hg"and Optimal SKU (which they called “Cuff Inflation Pressure in mm Hg”) levels.
It should be noted that the SKU levels were conservative for relatively young subjects. The subjects started at 10 Base SKU in Week 1 and increased to 30 Base SKU by Week 8; they started at 90 Base SKU in Week 1 and increased to 180 Base SKU by Week 8. Both the KAATSU arm and the non-KAATSU arm girth increased (measured in cm between Week 0 and Week 8):
Non-KAATSU Arm (cm) girth:
Week 0: 22.7 cm
Week 2: 24.3 cm
Week 4: 24.9 cm
Week 6: 25.7 cm
Week 8: 26.1 cm
KAATSU Arm (cm) girth:
Week 0: 23.0 cm
Week 2: 23.2 cm
Week 4: 24.5 cm
Week 6: 25.4 cm
Week 8: 26.1 cm
The research showed how doing KAATSU on one limb can have crossover (systemic) effects on the other limb - a very important goal for individuals with one injured limb who is trying to recover.
In the United States, a well-known case where this effect was practically demonstrated was with 2010 Olympic silver medalist Todd Lodwick who broke his left arm and torn his ligaments 28 days before the 2014 Winter Olympics. With KAATSU done on his non-injured limbs, he was able to compete admirably well in both the ski jumping and the Nordic combined events after only 5 weeks of KAATSU. His coaching staff noted that Lodwick was getting too muscular after a few weeks of KAATSU - despite his broken bone and torn ligaments. In response, his SKU levels was reduced and he stretched more and did low-pressure, post-workout KAATSU Cycle sets so his muscle hypertrophy was not accelerated (see above). Personally, Lodwick liked the effects and ultimately was able to compete.
In summary, doing KAATSU on healthy limbs can have direct crossover benefits to the strength and girth of an injured limb or core.
Another previous study conducted in Japan is entitled Cross-Transfer Effects of Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction (see here).
Silver medalist Todd Lodwick is shown above doing similar KAATSU Cycle sets after his skiing accident and was able to rehabilitate and recover quickly enough to compete in the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi.
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Day 17 With Traumatic Brain Injury Survivor
For who? brain injury survivors, Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
After a steady recovery over a 3-week period where she is enjoying improved sleep patterns, improved muscle tone, more relaxation, significantly greater movement and mobility, and improved wound recovery, Tina did 5 KAATSU Cycles on her arms (with an Optimal SKU of 100 + 120 + 140 + 160 + 180) on Day 17.
After her upper body workout, Tina did 5 KAATSU Cycles on her legs (with an Optimal SKU of 150 + 170 + 190 + 200 + 201) while her caregiver Yuri helped her do a variety of exercises:
1. Yuri lifts her knee while Tina pushes forward against resistance to work on her quadricep and hamstring.
2. Yuri grabs against Tina's back while Tina pushes back to work on her back and neck muscles. It is important to help Tina gain more muscle and control her neck when she is moved.
3. Yuri rotates her ankles that helps her feet and calves feel better.
By Day 26, she was doing the following exercises:
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
For what? functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery
After a steady recovery over a 3-week period where she is enjoying improved sleep patterns, improved muscle tone, more relaxation, significantly greater movement and mobility, and improved wound recovery, Tina did 5 KAATSU Cycles on her arms (with an Optimal SKU of 100 + 120 + 140 + 160 + 180) on Day 17.
After her upper body workout, Tina did 5 KAATSU Cycles on her legs (with an Optimal SKU of 150 + 170 + 190 + 200 + 201) while her caregiver Yuri helped her do a variety of exercises:
1. Yuri lifts her knee while Tina pushes forward against resistance to work on her quadricep and hamstring.
2. Yuri grabs against Tina's back while Tina pushes back to work on her back and neck muscles. It is important to help Tina gain more muscle and control her neck when she is moved.
3. Yuri rotates her ankles that helps her feet and calves feel better.
By Day 26, she was doing the following exercises:
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
Sunday, June 3, 2018
Recovery From A Torn ACL With KAATSU
For who? Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? mobility, flexibility, recovery
Danny Woodhead is one tough athlete. Small in stature for an NFL fullback, but huge in heart, the 33-year-old NFL running back has had his share of injuries including two separate torn ACLs experienced many years apart.
His first ACL surgery was in the early part of his professional career and he rehabilitated in the traditional manner. His latest ACL surgery occurred during early part of the 2016 season, but he returned to the field in unprecedented time. Steven Munatones recalls, "Danny started doing Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on the KAATSU Master at his home, every day. This was in early October. I told him that by Thanksgiving in late November, he would be back. Both he and his wife didn't believe me at first, but when he sent a text with photos of his rehabbed leg before Thanksgiving, I could not help but smile."
His return was indeed quick - much quicker than expected under standard orthopedic protocols. He combined his physical therapy regimen with the standard KAATSU Cycle sets including doing a variety of isometic exercises during his rehabilitation from surgery. He sat on his couch at home watching NFL games during his recovery, simply and repeatedly contracting his thighs and hamstrings as the KAATSU Cycle mode was on. Three times per day: morning, afternoon and evening. The result was no muscle atrophy, a key benefit for a veteran player whose leg strength is off the charts.
Woodhead adhered to standard physical therapy, but also enhanced his recovery with the standard KAATSU rehabilitation:
* focusing on the KAATSU Cycle mode
* starting with low pressures and gradually building up to higher pressures
* combined physical therapy movements with the KAATSU Air Bands on
* doing conservative KAATSU Cycles within an hour of going to bed
* also combining isometric exercises while at home in the KAATSU Cycle mode
* gradually increasing the intensity and range of motion
* start with KAATSU Cycles on your arms, and then move to your legs
* you can also do KAATSU Cycles only on your injured leg (i.e., Single-limb KAATSU)
Fundamentally, KAATSU is separated into different protocols in each of the following 3 areas:
1. Athletic Performance
2. Rehabilitation
3. Recovery and Wellness
Athletic Performance: KAATSU is used in slightly different ways to improve speed, stamina, strength, muscle size or BMI.
Rehabilitation: KAATSU is used to enhance traditional physical therapy for people with broken bones, or torn ligaments, tendons, and muscles. These protocols are specific with different applications of pressure.
Recovery: KAATSU is also used for recovery from injuries and the effects of sedentary living.
KAATSU Arm Protocols
›› Even for post-ACL surgery recovery, start KAATSU Cycles on your arms first.
›› Do KAATSU Cycles starting at lower pressures and building up to higher pressures.
•• Your Base SKU can vary between 10 - 30 SKU depending on your age and physical condition (i.e., placing 1-2 fingers between your limb and the KAATSU Air Bands). In general, the younger and more fit you are, the higher your pressures. But everyone differs.
›› Stretch your arms or upper body, do isometric exercises, and/or do 3 sets of the KAATSU 3-Point Arm Exercises (i.e., 3 sets of Hand Clenches + 3 sets of Biceps Curls + 3 sets of Triceps Extensions) during the KAATSU Cycle mode.
•• Rest while there is the KAATSU Air Bands are deflated.
•• Move while the KAATSU Air Bands are inflated.
Specific Post-ACL Surgery Protocols
›› Do muscle contractions of your quadriceps and calves, stretch, and/or perform simple physical therapy movements (in combination with resistance bands or other equipment that is requested by therapist during the KAATSU Cycle.
•• Higher SKU levels are usually tolerable on your legs compared to your arms in most cases.
›› Do specific physical therapy movements, stretch, and/or the KAATSU 3-Point Leg Exercises:
Simple: 3 sets each of Toe Curls + Toe Raises + Sitting Heel Raises
Moderate (after the body begins to heal and such movements become possible): 3 sets each of Balancing on one leg + casual walking
Advanced (after the body begins to heal and such movements become possible): 3 sets each of Standing Heel Raises + Standing Leg Curls + Non-lock (partial extension) Quarter Squats
** Note: KAATSU Air Bands are waterproof and any kind of aqua-therapy movements can also be done in the water or on an AlterG treadmill. However, do not take the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 or KAATSU C3 or KAATSU B1 devices in the water.
How to Wear
›› Place the KAATSU Air Bands on your upper arms, above your biceps, and below your deltoids near your armpits. Your KAATSU Air Bands should be placed snugly so your finger cannot be easily slipped under the bands when it is against your skin.
›› The palms of your hands should start turning pink or even a redness right away. Your KAATSU Air Bands are on too tightly if the hands turn white, gray and blue or you feel numbness.
›› If the KAATSU Air Bands are on too tightly, your Capillary Refill Time (CRT) will be longer than 3 seconds. In this case, loosen the KAATSU Air Bands on your arms.
›› To check your CRT, firmly press your thumb into the palms of both hands and release. The temporary white spot on your palms should quickly fill back with blood and turn pink (or red). You can do this anywhere on your legs, but preferably on your quadriceps above your knee on your legs, when you are checking your CRT on your legs.
›› Place the deflated KAATSU Air Bands around the upper legs, right by your groin (i.e., under mens's briefs or a woman's swimsuit are worn).
›› Start with the appropriate KAATSU Cycle level depending on your age and physical condition (10 - 30 SKU).
General Guidelines
›› Do 3-4 sets of each exercise, stretch, and/or physical therapy exercises. Then, continue with the next 3 sets with a different exercise, stretche, or movement.
›› For rehabilitation and recovery, movements should be performed slowly, steadily and non-stop (e.g., do not lock knees on squats).
›› For athletic performance, movements should be performed at desired pace or speed in a game, set or match. This is called KAATSU Performance Training.
›› After 3-4 sets of a specific exercise, stretch or movement, then move onto another type of exercise, stretch or movement. Note: If you are working on your legs, do 3-4 sets on one leg and then 3-4 sets on the other leg.
›› Keep rest short between sets and between exercises. That is, rest 20 seconds maximum between sets of 3 or 60 seconds maximum between different exercises. Modify as necessary.
›› Select exercises, therapeutic movements or resistance loads that allow performance of a good number of repetitions (e.g., 30- 40 in the first set, 20-30 in the second set, fewer than 15 in the third set, fewer than 10 in the fourth set).
›› Reach maximum effort (or go to muscular failure or technical failure) within each set.
›› Always remain well hydrated before and during the entire KAATSU session.
›› Always start with standard KAATSU Cycel (i.e., 8 cycles of 30 seconds of pressure followed by 5 seconds of pressure off with sequentially increasing pressure).
›› Always conduct movements with a good range of motion. However, if you feel any pain or uncomfortable sensation, restrict your range of motion so there is no pain or uncomfortableness. That is, never push your joints or limbs to the point of pain.
›› Always follow KAATSU protocols (i.e., have Capillary Refill Time within 3 seconds with no occlusion or lightheadedness, and no paleness or no numbness in limbs).
›› Immediately release and remove KAATSU Air Bands if there is any numbness or lightheadedness, or the skin color becomes pale or white. Lie down with the legs elevated if necessary.
›› First start KAATSU on your arms and then proceed to do KAATSU on your legs.
›› Never simultaneously put on or use the KAATSU Air Bands on your arms and legs.
›› Limit KAATSU to 15 minutes on your arms and 20 minutes on your legs.
›› Frequently check your CRT (i.e., Capillary Refill Time). Confirm that the color of your limbs remains either pink or beefy red.
›› Your veins may become distended (i.e., popping out) during KAATSU.
›› You may feel a slight tingling in your fingers or toes during KAATSU.
›› KAATSU should be implemented with the understanding of your physician.
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
For what? mobility, flexibility, recovery
Danny Woodhead is one tough athlete. Small in stature for an NFL fullback, but huge in heart, the 33-year-old NFL running back has had his share of injuries including two separate torn ACLs experienced many years apart.
His first ACL surgery was in the early part of his professional career and he rehabilitated in the traditional manner. His latest ACL surgery occurred during early part of the 2016 season, but he returned to the field in unprecedented time. Steven Munatones recalls, "Danny started doing Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on the KAATSU Master at his home, every day. This was in early October. I told him that by Thanksgiving in late November, he would be back. Both he and his wife didn't believe me at first, but when he sent a text with photos of his rehabbed leg before Thanksgiving, I could not help but smile."
His return was indeed quick - much quicker than expected under standard orthopedic protocols. He combined his physical therapy regimen with the standard KAATSU Cycle sets including doing a variety of isometic exercises during his rehabilitation from surgery. He sat on his couch at home watching NFL games during his recovery, simply and repeatedly contracting his thighs and hamstrings as the KAATSU Cycle mode was on. Three times per day: morning, afternoon and evening. The result was no muscle atrophy, a key benefit for a veteran player whose leg strength is off the charts.
Woodhead adhered to standard physical therapy, but also enhanced his recovery with the standard KAATSU rehabilitation:
* focusing on the KAATSU Cycle mode
* starting with low pressures and gradually building up to higher pressures
* combined physical therapy movements with the KAATSU Air Bands on
* doing conservative KAATSU Cycles within an hour of going to bed
* also combining isometric exercises while at home in the KAATSU Cycle mode
* gradually increasing the intensity and range of motion
* start with KAATSU Cycles on your arms, and then move to your legs
* you can also do KAATSU Cycles only on your injured leg (i.e., Single-limb KAATSU)
Fundamentally, KAATSU is separated into different protocols in each of the following 3 areas:
1. Athletic Performance
2. Rehabilitation
3. Recovery and Wellness
Athletic Performance: KAATSU is used in slightly different ways to improve speed, stamina, strength, muscle size or BMI.
Rehabilitation: KAATSU is used to enhance traditional physical therapy for people with broken bones, or torn ligaments, tendons, and muscles. These protocols are specific with different applications of pressure.
Recovery: KAATSU is also used for recovery from injuries and the effects of sedentary living.
KAATSU Arm Protocols
›› Even for post-ACL surgery recovery, start KAATSU Cycles on your arms first.
›› Do KAATSU Cycles starting at lower pressures and building up to higher pressures.
•• Your Base SKU can vary between 10 - 30 SKU depending on your age and physical condition (i.e., placing 1-2 fingers between your limb and the KAATSU Air Bands). In general, the younger and more fit you are, the higher your pressures. But everyone differs.
›› Stretch your arms or upper body, do isometric exercises, and/or do 3 sets of the KAATSU 3-Point Arm Exercises (i.e., 3 sets of Hand Clenches + 3 sets of Biceps Curls + 3 sets of Triceps Extensions) during the KAATSU Cycle mode.
•• Rest while there is the KAATSU Air Bands are deflated.
•• Move while the KAATSU Air Bands are inflated.
Specific Post-ACL Surgery Protocols
›› Do muscle contractions of your quadriceps and calves, stretch, and/or perform simple physical therapy movements (in combination with resistance bands or other equipment that is requested by therapist during the KAATSU Cycle.
•• Higher SKU levels are usually tolerable on your legs compared to your arms in most cases.
›› Do specific physical therapy movements, stretch, and/or the KAATSU 3-Point Leg Exercises:
Simple: 3 sets each of Toe Curls + Toe Raises + Sitting Heel Raises
Moderate (after the body begins to heal and such movements become possible): 3 sets each of Balancing on one leg + casual walking
Advanced (after the body begins to heal and such movements become possible): 3 sets each of Standing Heel Raises + Standing Leg Curls + Non-lock (partial extension) Quarter Squats
** Note: KAATSU Air Bands are waterproof and any kind of aqua-therapy movements can also be done in the water or on an AlterG treadmill. However, do not take the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 or KAATSU C3 or KAATSU B1 devices in the water.
How to Wear
›› Place the KAATSU Air Bands on your upper arms, above your biceps, and below your deltoids near your armpits. Your KAATSU Air Bands should be placed snugly so your finger cannot be easily slipped under the bands when it is against your skin.
›› The palms of your hands should start turning pink or even a redness right away. Your KAATSU Air Bands are on too tightly if the hands turn white, gray and blue or you feel numbness.
›› If the KAATSU Air Bands are on too tightly, your Capillary Refill Time (CRT) will be longer than 3 seconds. In this case, loosen the KAATSU Air Bands on your arms.
›› To check your CRT, firmly press your thumb into the palms of both hands and release. The temporary white spot on your palms should quickly fill back with blood and turn pink (or red). You can do this anywhere on your legs, but preferably on your quadriceps above your knee on your legs, when you are checking your CRT on your legs.
›› Place the deflated KAATSU Air Bands around the upper legs, right by your groin (i.e., under mens's briefs or a woman's swimsuit are worn).
›› Start with the appropriate KAATSU Cycle level depending on your age and physical condition (10 - 30 SKU).
General Guidelines
›› Do 3-4 sets of each exercise, stretch, and/or physical therapy exercises. Then, continue with the next 3 sets with a different exercise, stretche, or movement.
›› For rehabilitation and recovery, movements should be performed slowly, steadily and non-stop (e.g., do not lock knees on squats).
›› For athletic performance, movements should be performed at desired pace or speed in a game, set or match. This is called KAATSU Performance Training.
›› After 3-4 sets of a specific exercise, stretch or movement, then move onto another type of exercise, stretch or movement. Note: If you are working on your legs, do 3-4 sets on one leg and then 3-4 sets on the other leg.
›› Keep rest short between sets and between exercises. That is, rest 20 seconds maximum between sets of 3 or 60 seconds maximum between different exercises. Modify as necessary.
›› Select exercises, therapeutic movements or resistance loads that allow performance of a good number of repetitions (e.g., 30- 40 in the first set, 20-30 in the second set, fewer than 15 in the third set, fewer than 10 in the fourth set).
›› Reach maximum effort (or go to muscular failure or technical failure) within each set.
›› Always remain well hydrated before and during the entire KAATSU session.
›› Always start with standard KAATSU Cycel (i.e., 8 cycles of 30 seconds of pressure followed by 5 seconds of pressure off with sequentially increasing pressure).
›› Always conduct movements with a good range of motion. However, if you feel any pain or uncomfortable sensation, restrict your range of motion so there is no pain or uncomfortableness. That is, never push your joints or limbs to the point of pain.
›› Always follow KAATSU protocols (i.e., have Capillary Refill Time within 3 seconds with no occlusion or lightheadedness, and no paleness or no numbness in limbs).
›› Immediately release and remove KAATSU Air Bands if there is any numbness or lightheadedness, or the skin color becomes pale or white. Lie down with the legs elevated if necessary.
›› First start KAATSU on your arms and then proceed to do KAATSU on your legs.
›› Never simultaneously put on or use the KAATSU Air Bands on your arms and legs.
›› Limit KAATSU to 15 minutes on your arms and 20 minutes on your legs.
›› Frequently check your CRT (i.e., Capillary Refill Time). Confirm that the color of your limbs remains either pink or beefy red.
›› Your veins may become distended (i.e., popping out) during KAATSU.
›› You may feel a slight tingling in your fingers or toes during KAATSU.
›› KAATSU should be implemented with the understanding of your physician.
Copyright © 2014 - 2018 by KAATSU Global
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