Improving Powerlifting Recovery and Results with KAATSU

For who? Competitive athletes, powerlifters, bodybuilders, football players, sumo wrestlers
For what? Strength, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, warm-up, recovery




































Giancarlo Mavrici and Emma Bollinger quickly realized the benefits of KAATSU - and all its different applications.

The 22-year-old powerlifter from Germany and the 18-year-old American Olympic weightlifter from Florida are both emerging in their weight divisions in the sport of competitive powerlifting.

Mavrici, a 94 kg powerlifter, set a new German national junior deadlift record when he lifted 307.5 kg. Five months later in March 2016, Mavrici increased his deadlift performance to 320 kg while shedding 2 kg of body weight. During the same period, he also improved his squat best from 275 kg to 300 kg. His improvement was credited to his use of KAATSU. He explains here.

His key to success?



























Mavrici uses a KAATSU Nano to recover from his strenuous competitions. "After a deloading period with KAATSU Training, he comes back more refreshed and stronger because KAATSU does not create muscle damage," explained KAATSU Master Specialist Robert Heiduk who authored the book KAATSU - The Pressure Training From Japan: New Perspectives in sport, therapy and health promotion. "KAATSU leads to high levels of muscle activation. It’s very good at inducing hypertrophy with potential in many different settings ranging from rehabilitation and regular exercise to sport specific training."


































Bollinger is similarly rapidly moving up the ranks in her USA Weightlifting class where she is currently ranked #4 in the USA in the 55 kg weight class.

Her key to success?

Her father Rob, "Emma feels lucky to use the KAATSU and really can tell a difference in her readiness for competition lifts. When she goes to college this summer, she will take our unit because KAATSU is now a staple in her competition prep. Emma has found that using the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 KAATSU in concert with a Therabody Theragun Pro are very effective tools pre- post-workout and competition.

Employing a Therabody Theragun Pro, Emma spends about 20 minutes doing a complete pass over her body focusing on major muscle groups for 20-30 seconds. Then she employs the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 on the Cycle mode G1-G3 with the KAATSU Air Bands on her legs. Emma begins with active stretching and then will repeat Cycles on the G2 and G3 levels while moving an empty 15 kg barbell through the patterns of movement that align with the Clean & Jerk as well as the Snatch. During Admin time and while waiting on deck to lift, Emma uses the KAATSU Air Bands on her arms on Cycle levels G1 & G2."


























Emma stretching with her KAATSU Air Bands on her legs, pre-competition.


























Emmy starting her post-competition KAATSU Cycles with the KAATSU Air Bands on her legs.

Rob sums up his daughter's post-competition protocol, "Recovery is usually in the vehicle headed back home where Emma will employ the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 in the Cycle mode G1-G3 and P1-P3 on the drive."

"Athletes like Giancarlo and Emma can use their KAATSU devices in so many different ways," says Steven Munatones. "During training, they can literally begin their warm-up soon after they wake up. While getting ready for school or a morning workout, they can throw on their KAATSU Air Bands and do Cycles at low, conservative pressures while they are brushing their teeth or getting their gear ready - even before they leave their home.

Then, during their actual workouts, they can work on their technique, either without weights or very little weight, with the KAATSU in the Constant mode. As they improve, they can still use the light weights, but start increasing the KAATSU Constant pressure levels. Then, of course, they use the KAATSU Cycle mode for recovery post-workouts - and then again, within an hour of going to bed in order to help prepare their bodies for high-quality sleep. In their heavy training periods, this evening/sleep recovery is essential."

To follow Giancarlo Mavrici, visit here and to visit Emma Bollinger, visit here.

Note: Athletes like Mavrici who are powerlifters compete in the squat, bench press, and deadlift to see who can lift as much weight as possible for 1 repetition. Powerlifters have three attempts to reach their maximum weight and are ranked in body-weight and age categories. The winner is determined by who has the highest powerlifting total.

Athletes like Bollinger who are Olympic weightlifters attempt a maximum-weight single lift in the snatch and the clean and jerk. The snatch is a wide-grip, one-move lift. The clean and jerk is a close-grip, two-move lift. Each weightlifter receives three attempts in each, and the combined total of the highest two successful lifts determines the overall result within a bodyweight category.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

Robert Griswold Recovers From High Lactate Levels With KAATSU

For who? Competitive athletes, swimmers, masters swimmers, runners, rowers
For what? Strength, recovery, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, cool-down







































Robert Griswold is an American Paralympic swimmer and gold medal favorite for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics in various events. He has cerebral palsy and does KAATSU Cycles before and after his 8-times-per-week workouts and races as part of his pre-swim warm-ups and post-swim cool-downs.

During the complete lockdown at the U.S. Olympic Training Center due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Griswold spent nearly a year of trying his best to being creative in order to maintain his speed, strength, stamina and flexibility. He also graduated from Indiana State University, began clerking at a law firm in St. Louis, Missouri, and continues to train 8 times per week in anticipation of the Paralympic Trials in Lewisville, Texas in April with the anticipation of winning medals at the Tokyo Paralympics.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the administration at the U.S. Olympic Training Center shut down its facilities, but also would not let the athletes off the Training Center campus. The athletes had no way to leave the Center, but swimmers also had no way to train properly in a pool. So what did Griswold do? He looked for an AirBnB with a backyard pool and found one and negotiated an early morning training schedule with the owner.

He and his roommate would sneak out of the Training Center campus through a side door before the sun came up. They would get to the AirBnB house with a 13-meter pool. They jury-rigged a tether unit and did creative pool workouts. He also finagled his way to get a Vasa Trainer unit and figured out a way to stay in shape with his ingenuity and KAATSU Air Bands that he used on dry land and in the pool.

Eventually, he ended up moving to St Louis where he currently trains in a 50m pool 8 times per week while working as a law clerk 25 hours per week. The United States Paralympic Trials are on April 10-12.

He explains his recovery protocol, "When I came back and competed in my first swim meet at the U.S. Open, I swam the 400m individual medley. I was about 95% of my peak physical abilities and just barely missed the world record. When I got out of the pool, I used my lactate meter and showed the USA Swimming National Team High Performance Director that his post-race lactate levels were 19.9 mmol/L. The director saw my lactate reading and said that 19.9 must be a mistake.

So I retested a few minutes later and I tested at 20.2 mmol/L. The director was surprised it was that high."

But Griswold uses his KAATSU equipment to help him recover from these high lactate levels. He swims easily (loosens down) for 600 meters until his lactate reading is between 7-8 mmol/L. Then he gets out of the water and does KAATSU Cycles until his lactate is reduced to 2.1 or lower mmol/L.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

Progressive KAATSU Cycles In The Air

For who? Road warriors, executives, competitive athletes, professional athletes
For what? Recovery, jet lag, insomnia, travel



























































Over the decades of intercontinental travel between Japan, Europe and the USA, KAATSU Global has developed ways to use the KAATSU Cycle mode in order to avoid or mitigate jet lag when crossing many time zones.

Travelers can follow these basic protocols:

1. Do Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets before boarding the airplane at the departing airport.
2. Remain well hydrated during the flight.
3. Do a series of KAATSU Cycle sets before or after the in-flight meal.
4. Do a series of KAATSU Cycle sets before landing.
5. Do a series of very gentle or passive KAATSU Cycle sets in the hotel before bedtime in the new location.
6. Use conservative (low) pressures; avoid medium and higher pressures unless you are a very experienced user.

The KAATSU protocols are separated into 3 different recommendations based on our intercontinental travel experiences over the last 20 years.

Assumption: KAATSU Cycle sets are done in the economy-class section. In cases where the KAATSU user is in business class or first class, there is much more space and comfort to do KAATSU, especially on one's legs.

Short-haul Flights (under 3 hours)
Examples: Heathrow to Amsterdam, Heathrow to Madrid, Los Angeles to San Francisco, New York to Washington DC, Tokyo to Fukuoka
Note: generally, the short-haul flights are not exceeding 2 time zones.
Recommendations:
1. Do 2-4 KAATSU Cycle sets in morning and/or at the airport. It can be done on your legs and/or arms as you prefer.
2. For economy-class short-haul flights, the seats tend to be the most narrow and the flights tend to be the most crowded. Under these conditions, the KAATSU Air Bands are more difficult to put on your legs. Focus on doing KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms in this case.
3. If a morning flight, do 2-6 KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms shortly after leveling off.
4. Stay well hydrated.
5. After KAATSU Cycle sets are completed, you can rest, work, listen to music, or watch movies for the rest of the flight.
6. Do 2-6 KAATSU Cycle sets on way to hotel or once in hotel. If at the hotel, doing KAATSU Cycles on the legs feels good while unpacking and getting ready to go out.

Medium-haul Flights (3-6 hours)
Examples: London to Moscow, London to Athens, Los Angeles to New York, New York to Washington DC, Tokyo to Seoul
Note: generally, the medium-haul flights are exceeding 3-4 time zones.
Recommendations:
1. Do 2-6 KAATSU Cycles in morning and/or at the airport. It is best to do KAATSU Cycles first on the arms and then on the legs.
2. For economy-class medium-haul flights, the seats tend to be the more narrow than longer flights. The flights tend to be the crowded. Under these conditions, the KAATSU Air Bands are more difficult to put on your legs. Focus on doing KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms only.
3. If a morning flight, do 2-6 KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms shortly after leveling off.
4. Always stay well hydrated while staying away from alcohol.
5. After initial set of KAATSU Cycle sets are completed, you can rest, work, listen to music, or watch movies for the rest of the flight.
6. You can also do KAATSU Cycle sets again at your hotel before going to bed. At the hotel, doing KAATSU Cycle sets on the legs feels good while unpacking and getting ready to go out or to bed.
Note: avoid doing vigorous exercises with the KAATSU equipment before bedtime - this will stimulate adrenalin, not your parasympathetic system.

Long-haul Flight (over 6 hours)
Examples: London to Washington DC, London to Dubai, Los Angeles to Tokyo, New York to Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo to Singapore
Note: generally, the long-haul flights are exceeding 5-6 time zones​and many times, many more time zones
Recommendations:
1. Do 2-6 KAATSU Cycles in morning and/or at the airport. It is best to do KAATSU Cycle sets first on your arms and then on your legs.
2. For economy-class long-haul flights, the seats can have enough room to do KAATSU Cycle sets on your legs. If possible and if comfortable do KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms first and then your legs.
3. If a morning flight, do 2-6 KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms shortly after leveling off. Follow up with 2-6 KAATSU Cycles on your legs.
4. Always stay well hydrated preferably with water (no alcohol).
5. After initial set of KAATSU Cycle sets are completed, you can rest, work, listen to music, or watch movies for the rest of the flight.
6. It is also best to do KAATSU Cycle sets again towards the end of the flight with the same protocol. If not possible, do once in hotel before going to bed. At the hotel, doing KAATSU Cycle sets on the legs feels good while unpacking and getting ready to go out.
Note: avoid doing vigorous exercises with the KAATSU equipment before bedtime - this will stimulate adrenalin, not your parasympathetic system.

Additionally, a few other posts on this subject here, here, and here.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

Post-Natal KAATSU

For who? Mothers
For what? Pregnancy, childbirth, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, balance, varicose veins

A full postpartum recovery from pregnancy and childbirth is transformative and takes months. While time and patience are required, KAATSU can play an extremely convenient and effective role in post-natal recovery.

A lack of time and a lack of sleep are just two major obstacles to returning back to normal, both physiologically and emotionally.

KAATSU equipment can be used anytime and anywhere - and presents an entirely new paradigm for young mothers. KAATSU Air Bands can - and should - be used exclusively in the KAATSU Cycle mode while mothers are:

* regularly breastfeeding
* gently rocking their baby to sleep
* pushing their child in a stroller
* doing housework from folding clothes to tidying up
* preparing meals
* typing emails or text
* or simply playing with and watching the baby

The KAATSU Cycle mode's gentle, rhythmic, automated pressure on-pressure off on the arms or legs, even without movement, is exercise that specifically results in improved vascular tissue elasticity, underlying muscle tone, and skin tightness. Post-natal KAATSU does not have to be - and should not be - vigorous, difficult or time-consuming for the mother. No specific workout exercises need to be done to see results. Simple movement with KAATSU Air Bands on that mothers normally do with their child are sufficient.

The compression and decompression of the KAATSU Air Bands can be integrated into mother's normal lifestyle and schedule that effectively and efficiently produces results. KAATSU should not be seen as a workout, but simply a part of one's schedule, conveniently done 1-2 times per day.

The KAATSU Air Bands can be used as stand-alone tools to achieve the results that mothers want, but the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 can also be used in combination with other fitness equipment (e.g., treadmills) or movements, from ab vacuum repetitions to Pilates and different kinds of isometic exercises.

KAATSU can be used to relieve such hard-to-fix issues as diastasis recti that can lead to unstable anterior support that, in turn, creates back problems and sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

KAATSU even has a role in postpartum depression where insomnia and stress are encountered because KAATSU can help balance hormones and improve sleep.

And, of course, with mother and father trying to find a balance with their various responsibilities, spouses can workout very effectively with a minimum of time.






































While the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 with four KAATSU Air Bands and an online education program is US$899 + shipping costs, KAATSU Global offers a monthly payment plan (see here) that makes a purchase more affordable for many.

Some questions that mothers may ask include:

Q1. Does use of KAATSU make a difference between a vaginal birth versus a Cesarean delivery (C-section)?
A1. Mothers who have had either type can benefit from KAATSU Cycles. The systemic effect of KAATSU is incredibly powerful for healing for recovery from stitches or small connective tissue tears. The hormonal response is also extremely valuable on many levels.

Q2. How does use of KAATSU impact the mother's milk supply?
A2. Very well.

Q3. How does use of KAATSU affect new varicose veins? Will KAATSU make it worse?
A3. With an increased vascular elasticity, KAATSU will help improve the appearance of the vascular veins.

Q4. How often should or can KAATSU be used?
A4. At least daily is good. Twice per day, using arms first and legs second during each daily KAATSU session, is optimal for most mothers if time is available.

Q5. How intense does KAATSU have to be to get results?
A5. KAATSU Cycles should be done comfortably and easily. There is no need to workout intensely or move vigorously while doing KAATSU Cycles during this post-natal period. Intensity and complexity of movement can increased over time (e.g., post 6-8 weeks of birth).

Q6. Will KAATSU lead to immediate results? How long can visible result take?
A6. KAATSU starts to immediately impact the vascular elasticity of your capillaries, veins and arteries. The frequency of usage will impact how soon results will start to be experienced and seen. But generally within a few weeks (e.g., 14-28 KAATSU sessions), aesthetic results will be visible.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Beauty - KAATSU Cycling During Facials

For who? Aesthetician, women, mothers
For what? KAATSU Beauty, skin care, skin beauty



KAATSU Beauty, the original BFR, has been used by skin care professionals, aestheticians, and make-up artists for decades in Japan.

And the specialty application of KAATSU Beauty is now catching on in Southern California.

These KAATSU Beauty specialists - from Tokyo to Newport Beach - cater to both young women and older women and understand how increased blood flow in their clients' skin and face helps them on a number of wellness and cosmetic perspectives.

In 2006, researchers from the University of Tokyo and the Tokyo Metropolitan University studied what was anecdotally known by the KAATSU Beauty market. They published a formal study project titled, Effect of knee extension exercise with KAATSU on forehead cutaneous blood flow in healthy young and middle-aged women.

In this study of women (average age 34.5 years), they concluded that the cutaneous blood circulation (circulation and blood supply of the skin) in the foreheads of test subjects were improved with unloaded unilateral knee extension exercises (i.e., 3 sets of 15 repetitions taking less than 75 seconds per set with a single KAATSU Air Band on their left upper leg without weights or resistance).

The women performed the three-set series of exercises twice - for the first time, they did it without KAATSU, and for the second time with KAATSU with the KAATSU Air Band inflated initially to 140 SKU and ending eventually at 200 SKU.

The blood flow in the foreheads of women was calculated from the blood velocity and red blood cell mass that was determined by laser blood flowmetry.

This conclusion of how blood circulation in a KAATSU user's forehead is improved with relatively easy leg exercises that focus on the quadriceps and hamstrings seems either impossible or illogical.

While the KAATSU users experienced no changes in blood lactate and hematocrit (i.e., volume percentage of red blood cells in blood), their norepinephrine levels increased. Norepinephrine is a naturally occurring chemical that acts as a stress hormone because the brain perceives that a stressful event has occurred.

This natural biohack created by the KAATSU leg exercises helps improve the subjects' forehead cutaneous blood flow. The beauty care experts and aestheticians in Japan and Southern California know that if KAATSU lower body exercises helps improve circulation and blood supply of the skin of the face, then KAATSU upper body exercises also do the same.

In the video above, the aesthetician was simultaneously doing the KAATSU Cycle mode while treating her client who was also using the KAATSU Cycle mode. Both were using the KAATSU 2.0 device and the KAATSU AirBands on their arms.

The closer that you can do the KAATSU Cycle mode to your bedtime, the better. It is ideal to generate a robust hormonal response right before getting a good night's sleep.

You can read the full study shown below or click through here.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Fitness, Another Day At The Beach

For who? White collar employees, mothers
For what? Fitness, wellness, functional movement, stress relief



For those users who have totally integrated KAATSU into their lifestyle are likely to "workout" while doing things they either like doing (e.g., flying a kite or spinning at home) or things they do on a regular basis (e.g., folding clothes or blow drying your hair).

KAATSU Fitness presents a radically different exercise and recovery paradigm for teenagers and young adults as well as for working parents, busy executives, and aging Baby Boomers. KAATSU enables anyone to exercise and rehabilitation anywhere anytime, especially important these times during a pandemic with lockdowns, stay-at-home mandates and quarantines.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Fitness, Fun In The Sun

For who? Working adults, Baby Boomers
For what? Recovery, stress relief

KAATSU equipment can be incorporated in your movements while you are having fun on the beach, in a park, up in the mountains, on a playground or on the driving range. You can be playing miniature golf, gardening, doing arts & crafts, fishing, painting, sewing, or playing cards, there isn't an activity that does not have a potential for integrating KAATSU Fitness.

Ideally, you can use the KAATSU Cycle mode, but you can also use the KAATSU Constant mode to enjoy yourself while simultaneously getting in a great workout.




























































































































































































































































































































































































Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Jump Rope

For who? Competitive athletes
For what? Stamina, functional movement, mobility



While most people are attracted to BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) equipment due to its potential to develop muscle, KAATSU offers much more than a focus on muscle tone and muscle growth.

KAATSU presents a radically different paradigm for teenagers and young adults as well as for working parents, busy executives, and aging Baby Boomers. KAATSU enables anyone to exercise and rehabilitation anywhere anytime, including using KAATSU with jump ropes and all kinds of recreational equipment.

Whether you fold clothes or type emails, or jump rope, with KAATSU Air Bands on doing either the KAATSU Cycle or KAATSU Constant mode, you will get a great workout.

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Fitness Walking, Increasing Strength and Stamina

For who? Working adults, mothers, retirees
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, balance, KAATSU Walking



The most common use of KAATSU equipment is during simple walking. KAATSU users put on their leg bands and simply do KAATSU Walking after a meal, while walking around the neighborhood or walking the dog. Either the KAATSU Cycle mode or the KAATSU Constant mode can be used, but you can walk longer in the KAATSU Cycle mode while the KAATSU Constant mode should be limited to 20 minutes.

Over 10 years ago, academic researchers from Japan confirmed what KAATSU Specialists have long known: that low-intensity exercise with KAATSU Air Bands leads to muscle growth and strength gains.*

Many researchers between 2000 - 2005 tested KAATSU Walking with MRI-measured muscle size and strength (maximum dynamic or one repetition maximum) and isometric strength along with blood hormonal parameters. Testing was done on both control groups and experimental groups of subjects ranging from young men to older women.

The testing was done using 20-minute bouts of treadmill speed of 50 meters per minute. The researchers found a multitude of benefits and changes among the experimental KAATSU users while there was no change in muscle size and dynamic and isometric strength in the control group..

1. Serum growth hormone was elevated after KAATSU Walking with the experimental group, but not with the non-KAATSU control group.
2. MRI-measured thigh muscle cross-sectional area and muscle volume increased by 4 - 7%.
3. One repetition maximum and maximum isometric strength increased between 8 - 10%

Furthermore, indicators of muscle damage (creatine kinase and myoglobin) and resting anabolic hormones did not change with both groups. The researchers concluded that KAATSU Walking induces muscle hypertrophy and strength gain despite the minimum level of exercise intensity after 3 weeks, and that KAATSU Walking may be a potentially useful method for promoting muscle hypertrophy for a wide range of the population including the frail and elderly.

While these benefits have long been known in Japan, there have been many other applications that have since been developed and researched that address age-related skeletal muscle loss (sarcopenia) that inhibits mobility and increases the risk of developing several diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis and heart disease.

As the implications of KAATSU protocols began to be appreciated by the United States military, researchers like Dr. William Ursprung at Texas A&M University studied the effects of KAATSU Walking to improve aerobic capacity. Dr. Ursprung evaluated the effects of KAATSU Walking on VO2max, 1.5 mile run times, and muscular size at low training volumes and intensities with airman from the U.S. Air Force 350th Special Operations and Tactics Training Squadron.






























After three weeks of KAATSU Walking, the test found significant improvements in VO2max, significant decreases in 1.5-mile run time, and significant increases in thigh muscle cross sectional area and the researchers concluded that KAATSU Walking represents a methodology for improving aerobic capacity, endurance and muscular size at low training volumes and intensities.

This conclusion mirrored the applications for KAATSU that many far forward-thinking coaches and trainers have known and used. For military personnel and athletes who are looking for concurrent improvements in strength and endurance, they do not always have to move, run, swim, cycle or row at maximum intensity if they strategically use KAATSU equipment.

While movement or exercises with KAATSU equipment performed with intensity will result in significant physiological and athletic improvement, it is always unnecessary.

"As long as their technique and athletic form is correct, athletes and military personnel can realize benefits with KAATSU by moving more slowly (i.e., walking versus running or swimming at a moderate pace versus swimming at maximum speed) rather than always going all-out," explains Steven Munatones. "Perhaps this lowered intensity is appropriate after injuries or immediately after a competition or during a taper phase of training. Perhaps this slower pace or raw speed is simply more appropriate during different parts of any specific workout when an athlete is working on their technique or form."

This phenomena means that the implications and applications of KAATSU usage expands significantly. When benefits and improvements can be achieved at any speed, pace or level of intensity, coaches and athletes can be much more flexible and creative in their training decisions.

For example, instead of only going all-out sprints with KAATSU, runners, cyclists, swimmers, rowers and skiers can practice at more moderate pace - which means that KAATSU can be done more frequently and with less resultant fatigue.

* Muscle size and strength are increased following walk training with restricted venous blood flow from the leg muscle, Kaatsu-walk training by Professor Abe and Professor Kearns of Tokyo Metropolitan University and Professor Sato of the University of Tokyo.

** The Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on VO2Max and 1.5 Mile Run Performance by William Ursprung, published in the International Journal of Exercise Science.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

7 Most Amazing Benefits of KAATSU Blood Flow Restriction Training

For who? Stay-at-home workers, mothers
For what? Wellness, biohacking, fitness



44-year-old Sorriso Lu, a copywriter and chef from Canmore in Alberta, Canada, runs Tri-Oneness (see here). Tri-Oneness is his expression and exploration about personal growth in mind, body, and spirit. He explains, "I like to explore the best in health, wellness, spirituality, biohacking, and human optimization. The secret is that you have to train those in unison daily and not neglect any aspect of those three. That is when you are truly whole and one. When you have that true wholeness, you become unstoppable in everything you do. My mission is to bring you the latest tips, tools, and tricks to help you achieve this oneness."

Sorriso's latest post is about the 7 Most Amazing Benefits of Kaatsu Blood Flow Restriction Training.

He laid out the following benefits:

1. Body Excretes Massive Amounts of Growth Hormones
2. Increases Cardiovascular Health
3. Ideal For Beginners, Seniors, and Athletes Alike
4. Less Time to Recover From Injuries
5. Has Anti-Aging Benefits
6. Fully Portable 7. Can be Detached for Mobility Exercises

Read on here.

Caution: Standard KAATSU protocols dictates that only arm or leg bands are used at any one time. Simultaneous use of the KAATSU Arm Bands and KAATSU Leg Bands is not part of the standard KAATSU protocols and is not recommended for any individual.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

Physiological Effects of Strength Training Incorporating Blood Flow Restriction Underwater

For who? Swimmers, water polo players, triathletes
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, recovery, KAATSU Aqua

Experienced KAATSU Master Specialists and coaches from California (Dave Carlson) to Massachusetts (Chris Morgan) have long incorporated KAATSU Aqua in the training of their athletes for speed, strength and stamina. They also use KAATSU and KAATSU Aqua for rehabilitation of muscles, bones, ligaments and tendons when required. It is used often for recovery, especially after intense workouts and in post-competition situations.

Like KAATSU, KAATSU Aqua is the original BFR for use by aquatherapists, trainers and physical therapists with aquatherapy pools, and competitive aquatic athletes and older people who do aquarobics and aquawalking in shallow pools.

Standard protocols for KAATSU Aqua is the same as KAATSU regarding the Base SKU Pressure and Optimal SKU Pressure.

But it is important for the KAATSU Aqua pressure to be lower on both the arms and the legs than what is normally used on dryland with standard KAATSU. The other protocols such as proper CRT (Capillary Refill Time) and restricting use no longer than 15 minutes are strictly adhered to by these coaches and their athletes that range from high school students to people in their mid-80's.

This year, the World Health Organization posted a paper by Hiroshi Kawano, Teruhiko Kondo and Atsushi Takeda called Physiological Effects of Strength Training Incorporating Blood Flow Restriction Underwater that was published in The Journal of The Japanese Society of Balneology, Climatology and Physical Medicine (see here).

The abstract reads, "Strength training performed while restricting blood flow is believed to cause the secretion of growth hormones under low load intensities and allow for muscle hypertrophy and increased muscle strength. This has potential clinical applications for elderly individuals and people with existing conditions. However, previous research has been performed on land, with hemodynamics and growth hormone secretion trends for training performed underwater unclear. Against this background, we investigated the effects of blood flow restriction training underwater on hemodynamics and plasma growth hormone (GH) levels. Twelve healthy university students were divided into two groups a localized immersion group where only the upper limb of the dominant hand was submerged, and a whole-body immersion group where participants were submerged to the xiphoid process. Immersed according to respective group protocols, both groups performed flexion and extension of the shoulder joint for 10 minutes with a pressurized cuff at the base of the upper arm under both 0 mmHg and 50 mmHg cuff pressures. Measured hemodynamics were heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. Plasma GH levels were measured from blood samples. This study revealed that underwater blood flow restriction strength training induced plasma GH level secretion under 50 mmHg conditions. In addition, high levels of GH secretion were shown in the localized immersion group for strength training even when the cuff was not pressurized. Conversely, no significant differences were evident in any measured hemodynamic categories. Results suggest that, in addition to cuff pressure, blood flow restriction training is affected by the body part immersed in water."

High school, club and national level water polo coach Dave Carlson from Los Alamitos, California and 2008 Olympic swim coach Chris Morgan of Danvers, Massachusetts discussed different way to recover from competitions and games with the KAATSU Aqua Bands and the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 device in this podcast:





KAATSU Master Specialists like Dr. Cory Keirn have long talked about KAATSU Aqua:

* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua Arms in Deep Water
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Aqua Arms
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua Legs in Deep Water
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua with a Noodle

Various KAATSU Aqua applications for competitive aquatic athletes are demonstrated below:









Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Cycle 2.0 Troubleshooting - Is There A Leak?

For who? KAATSU Cycle 2.0 users
For what? Troubleshooting, repair

Explanation provided by John Doolittle, CAPT, USN (Ret) who graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy and transferred to the U.S. Navy. During a 25-year career, he was deployed around the world as an officer in the Navy SEAL Teams; conducting special operations around the globe, to include Kosovo, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan.

He retired as a Navy Captain after his last assignment as Director of the Preservation of the Force and Family Task Force at U.S. Special Operations Command Headquarters, supporting 73,000 Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, Green Berets, Night Stalkers, Air Force and Marine Special Operators.

Doolittle is a certified KAATSU Master Instructor, a NAUI Dive Instructor, and has an MS in Defense Analysis / Irregular Warfare / Special Operations from the Naval Postgraduate School.

He explains, "The KAATSU Cycle 2.0 works on a closed air system. Any leak, whether big or small, will interfere with it completing each 30 second Cycle.

Here is how you can check where the leak may be:

Step #1. Connect the translucent connector tubes into the sides of the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 device. Do NOT connect the KAATSU Air Bands. Set the device in Cycle mode and press P high. If the device does not complete the 8 steps of the Cycle, there is a pin hole in the connector tubes.

The most common spot for pin holds is where the connector tube meets the gray plastic connector. Crimping at that point over time can create a pin hole. See image #1.

The solution is to cut off 1/2-inch (1.2 cm) of the tube and reinsert it on the gray plastic connector. Use a little soapy water which will make it easier to slide the tube back on on the connector.

Conversely, if the device does successfully complete the 8 steps of the Cycle, proceed to Step #2.

Step #2. Since the connectors tubes are not compromised with a pin hole, the next step to check the black tube that connects to the KAATSU Air Bands. At higher pressures, the tube that meets the hard-black connection point on the KAATSU Air Bands may have a leak.

This usually only occurs after hard, frequent usage while pulling on the black tube. See image #2 on left. If the tube appears to be a little stretched, cut off a 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) and reinsert the tube with soapy water.

The black tube is designed so that it will pull off if pulled too hard. This protects the air bladder inside the KAATSU Air Bands from tearing which is a fatal to the bands. If this does not solve the problem, proceed to Step #3.


Step #3. The last issue to test is whether or not the KAATSU Air Bands or connector tubes are compromised.

To test this, only connect one KAATSU Air Band at one time, but leave the tubes inserted in both sides.

If the bladder inside the KAATSU Air Band has failed, the device will not complete 8 Steps, You will see bubbles along the seams of the band. You may also see bubbles coming out from the connection of the white connector and black tube. If this is the case, remove a 1/2-inch (1.2 cm) of the black tube and reinsert the connector. See image #3 on left.

If the bubbles are coming from the bladder, you will need a replacement band.



Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Master 2.0 - From Getting Started to Troubleshooting

For who? KAATSU Master 2.0 users
For what? Troubleshooting, repair

Explanation provided by John Doolittle, CAPT, USN (Ret) who graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy and transferred to the U.S. Navy. During a 25-year career, he was deployed around the world as an officer in the Navy SEAL Teams; conducting special operations around the globe, to include Kosovo, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan.

He retired as a Navy Captain after his last assignment as Director of the Preservation of the Force and Family Task Force at U.S. Special Operations Command Headquarters, supporting 73,000 Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, Green Berets, Night Stalkers, Air Force and Marine Special Operators.

Doolittle is a certified KAATSU Master Instructor, a NAUI Dive Instructor, and has an MS in Defense Analysis / Irregular Warfare / Special Operations from the Naval Postgraduate School.

Getting Started with the KAATSU Master 2.0:



Setting Up The KAATSU Master 2.0 Unit:



KAATSU Cycle Mode vs. KAATSU Constant Mode:



Using the KAATSU Constant Mode:



KAATSU Master 2.0 - Troubleshooting Tips:



Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

Dr. Cory On Doing KAATSU on Your Arms

For who? Competitive athletes, Baby Boomers
For what? Strength, functional movement, mobility, flexibility



Cory Keirn, DPT, OCS, CSCS, TSAC-F, XPS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy located in Tampa, Florida. He is a former Strength & Conditioning Coach with the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and the Philadelphia Phillies, a Major League Baseball professional team. He did his residency in orthopaedics with a focus on complex orthopaedic cases and advanced physical therapy integration for tactical athletes.

KAATSU Master Specialist Keirn explains how to use the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 from many perspectives and for various applications. These videos summarize the information that he shares with his patients who regularly use KAATSU, the original BFR for their rehabilitation and recovery.

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

Unboxing the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 with Dr. Cory

For who? KAATSU Cycle 2.0 users
For what? KAATSU Cycle 2.0 usage



Cory Keirn, DPT, OCS, CSCS, TSAC-F, XPS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy located in Tampa, Florida. He is a former Strength & Conditioning Coach with the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and the Philadelphia Phillies, a Major League Baseball professional team. He did his residency in orthopaedics with a focus on complex orthopaedic cases and advanced physical therapy integration for tactical athletes.

Dr. Cory Keirn talks about KAATSU, the Original BFR.

KAATSU pioneered the emerging Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) global market. KAATSU equipment and protocols offer unparalleled performance, precision, and safety for users of all ages and walks of life. KAATSU is a Japanese word that means "additional pressure" that utilizes a state-of-the-art automated pressure system and pneumatic bands that safely optimizes blood circulation, and can enhance recovery, rehabilitation and performance. KAATSU features patented customizable cyclical and sustained pressure settings that allow for a wide variety of athletic, wellness, and therapeutic benefits.

"After careful review, it is clear to me that the KAATSU equipment is the best BFR equipment on the market, as it is the only one that allows you to automatically cycle pressure on for 30 seconds and off for five seconds," says Dr. Joseph Mercola, osteopathic physician.

The KAATSU Cycle Mode is an automated, repeated pressure sequence that allows users to customize both the duration and precise amount of pressure. In this mode, the pneumatic bands apply repeated and progressive periods of compression and decompression on the limbs. This distinct, patented feature of KAATSU maximizes safety and effectiveness for all users and purposes, even during passive use.

The KAATSU Cycle Mode can be used during exercise, household activities, or at rest anywhere, anytime. The Cycle Mode is beneficial during warm-ups, exercise recovery, injury rehabilitation, and for all aspects of athletic performance.

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Introduction Series by Dr. Cory

For who? Athletes, stay-at-home employees, mothers, Baby Boomers, retirees
For what? Fitness, wellness, strength, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, balance

Dr. Cory Keirn discusses KAATSU the original BFR and its impact on the future of exercise with the KAATSU Cycle 2.0:



Dr. Keirn addresses many different topics on the Dr. Cory KAATSU series (see links below). The Doctor Of Physical Therapy at the Veterans Administation was previously a strength and conditioning coach with the World Wrestling Entertainment and the Philadelphia Phillies, a Major League Baseball team.

Introducing KAATSU


How Does KAATSU Work?


Unboxing the KAATSU Cycle 2.0


KAATSU Full-Body Warm-up, Part 1


KAATSU Full-Body Warm-up, Part 2



KAATSU Published Research [shown with KAATSU inventor Dr. Yoshiaki Sato]


KAATSU Cycle and Warm-up


Doing KAATSU on Your Arms






Putting KAATSU Air Bands On Your Legs


Using The KAATSU Cycle 2.0 On Your Legs


Other links to the KAATSU Introduction Series by Dr. Cory are below:

* Dr. Cory On What Experienced Athletes Can Do With KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On Sharing A KAATSU Cycle 2.0 - Partner Workouts
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU For Pull-ups Or Vertical Pulling Motion
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Cycles For Your Shoulders
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Overhead Isometric Press
* Dr. Cory Explains The Physiological Effects Of KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Cycle 2.0 Exercises
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU, The Future of Exercise
* Dr. Cory On How KAATSU Works
* Dr. Cory On Shallow Water KAATSU Aqua
* Dr. Cory On Jumping Rope With KAATSU - Legs
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua Arms in Deep Water
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Aqua Arms
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua Legs in Deep Water
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua with a Noodle
* Dr. Cory Using The KAATSU Cycle 2.0 For Lower Body Warm-up
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Hip Flexor Dynamic Stretching
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Basic Pushing And Pulling For The Upper Body
* Dr. Cory On Using KAATSU Cycle 2.0 + TRX Straps for Lower Body and Core
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Spinal Rotational Mobility
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Yoga Legs
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Shoulder Mobility And Strengthening
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Yoga Arms
* Dr. Cory On Doing KAATSU Anywhere Anytime
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On Why People From All Walks of Life Use KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On Using KAATSU Cycle 2 0 On Your Arms
* Dr. Cory On Using The KAATSU Cycle 2.0 On Your Legs
* Dr. Cory On Putting KAATSU Air Bands On Your Legs

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

Chilton Hawk: Exercising During A Pandemic With KAATSU

For who? Blue collar employees, white collar employees, stay-at-home employees, students
For what? Fitness, wellness, strength, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, balance

Chilton Hawk is an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician at the University of Utah. He wrote a review (Exercising during a Pandemic) of the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 for his fellow employees of the Mountain West branch of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS).

The AALAS is a membership association of professionals employed around the world in academia, government, and private industry who are dedicated to the humane care and treatment of laboratory animals, as well as the quality research that leads to scientific gains that benefit people and animals.

Exercising during a Pandemic - A Review Submitted by Chilton Hawk

For many folks, trying to get good quality exercise has been challenging in the current pandemic. People who like to use gyms have found that many of them are closed. Gyms do have a variety of equipment that most of us cannot afford nor have space for at home. Doing exercise outside is generally weather dependent. One possible solution is blood flow resistance (BFR) exercises. It is effective at building muscle mass and improving blood circulation in a short amount of time.

Back in the 60s, Yoshiaki Sato was sitting on the floor in Buddha style. When he tried to get up, he experienced severe cramping in his leg. This is an experience that most of us have had at one time or another. As he rubbed his leg, he was wondering how to improve the blood flow. One of the problems that humans have with circulation is the heart pumps blood out, but the blood to return to the heart is working against gravity. Sato spent years of research trying to figure out a solution.

The result of his research was the development of blood flow resistance (BFR) exercises and equipment. He created stretchable, narrow pneumatic armbands KAATSU and leg bands that inflate like blood pressure cuffs. The arm bands are placed just below the deltoid muscle and above the biceps. The leg bands are placed as close to the groin as possible. The bands automatically and repeatedly inflate and deflate in 8 steps. Each step increases slightly in pressure.

This compression and decompression help push the blood to the distal ends of the limbs while the venous blood slows its return to the torso and pools in the limb. During the exercise session, skin color changes to a pinkish or reddish color. This indicates improved circulation and increased vascular tissue elasticity while serving as the catalyst for hormone production. Blood circulation is important to deliver nutrients to the cells and remove the toxins.

There are some videos on YouTube that give some idea of how to safely and properly use the BFR equipment. From personal experience, I would recommend the Dr. Cory KAATSU series (see below*). The exercise program is fairly simple. It is important to start with the armbands allowing the circulatory system to warm up for the next round of exercises. The reason I brought the KAATSU was for neuropathy. My neuropathy is caused by reduced blood flow to the legs and feet that create mobility and balance issues. It surprised me that the therapy results were immediately noticeable. I felt greater mobility, speed, and balance, and also noticed much better sleep at night, which allows greater cognitive ability. An added benefit is that I am building muscle mass with very few exercises.

KAATSU can be performed in a small area, with or without any special exercise equipment. This convenience and portability enable exercise or rehabilitation to be done anywhere anytime.

Today millions of people worldwide are enjoying the benefits of KAATSU which include quick recovery from injuries, building lean muscle, increased production of nitric acid for improved cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, increased energy, and endurance, according to the KAATSU website. Other benefits will be made known as further research is done.

The product being reviewed here is the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 which includes the control unit (that adjusts the pressure and timing of the compression and decompression) a pair of armbands and a pair of leg bands. The bands come in small, medium, large, and extra-large. Instructions for choosing the right size are on the website at Kaatsu.com. The price of the unit is $899.95 with a one-year warranty. Customer service is excellent. I have sent several emails with questions and the company answered in a very timely manner.



































Cory Keirn DPT discusses KAATSU the original BFR and its impact on the future of exercise with the KAATSU Cycle 2.0:



Dr. Keirn addresses many different topics on the Dr. Cory KAATSU series: * Dr. Cory On What Experienced Athletes Can Do With KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On Sharing A KAATSU Cycle 2.0 - Partner Workouts
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU For Pull-ups Or Vertical Pulling Motion
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Cycles For Your Shoulders
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Overhead Isometric Press
* Dr. Cory Explains The Physiological Effects Of KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Cycle 2.0 Exercises
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU, The Future of Exercise
* Dr. Cory On How KAATSU Works
* Dr. Cory On Shallow Water KAATSU Aqua
* Dr. Cory On Jumping Rope With KAATSU - Legs
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua Arms in Deep Water
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Aqua Arms
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua Legs in Deep Water
* Dr. Cory on KAATSU Aqua with a Noodle
* Dr. Cory Using The KAATSU Cycle 2.0 For Lower Body Warm-up
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Hip Flexor Dynamic Stretching
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Basic Pushing And Pulling For The Upper Body
* Dr. Cory On Using KAATSU Cycle 2.0 + TRX Straps for Lower Body and Core
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Spinal Rotational Mobility
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Yoga Legs
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Shoulder Mobility And Strengthening
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU Yoga Arms
* Dr. Cory On Doing KAATSU Anywhere Anytime
* Dr. Cory On KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On Why People From All Walks of Life Use KAATSU
* Dr. Cory On Using KAATSU Cycle 2 0 On Your Arms
* Dr. Cory On Using The KAATSU Cycle 2.0 On Your Legs
* Dr. Cory On Putting KAATSU Air Bands On Your Legs

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global

When Snow Falls, KAATSU To Stay Warm

For who? Working adults
For what? Strength, exercise





























KAATSU Master Specialist Chris Morgan has been using his KAATSU equipment for his rehabilitation of his broken ribs and broken heel as well as training his competitive swimmers and adult swimmers - both in their daily workouts and during competitions.

Over the years, Coach Morgan has really appreciated the effects of KAATSU, the original BFR. But this winter, especially after heavy snowfalls, he has appreciated his KAATSU equipment even more.

The Boston area experienced a heavy snowfall last night and this morning.

Before KAATSU, Morgan used to shovel snow in the mornings and his hands would get cold. No more.

At first, he used to shovel snow and then do a KAATSU Fitness session when he came into his home. "With more than a foot of snow on the ground, I always had a lot of snow to shovel. My hands would get borderline frostbite. I would do about 6 sets on the Pro Low pressure setting and my hands were as warm as ever.

But nowadays, I just wear the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 while I shovel. It is a tremendous workout that solves the immediate problem of removing snow from my driveway and porch and around the house, but my hands always stay warm. At first, I started wearing the KAATSU Air Bands over my jacket, but then I realized that the effects and warmth were so much better when the bands were over my shirt, but underneath my jacket. For someone with cold feet, putting bands on their legs would be great."

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global