Using KAATSU In A Hotel

Even though people of all ages and abilities can use their KAATSU Nano or KAATSU Cycle equipment in their own hotel rooms for athletic performance gains, rehabilitation or recovery, they can also always use the hotel fitness room for their more traditional - and perhaps - more intense KAATSU Training.

Every hotel fitness center is different. Users can use either their KAATSU Nano or KAATSU Cycle device with every machine and tools - except the large dumbbells and heavy weights with a barbell. Spinning bikes, treadmills, resistance bands, TRX ropes, yoga mats, Bosu balls, jump ropes, ab machines...they all can be incorporated into a KAATSU workout or for rehabilitation or recovery.

Users can spin on the stationary or recumbent exercise bikes with their KAATSU leg bands on - or they can jog or sprint on the treadmills. They can use the elliptical cross-trainers with their KAATSU arm bands on - or also do core work or stretch or swim in the hotel pool. Use resistance bands for range of motion exercises.

The workouts not only can become intense with the KAATSU arm or leg bands on, but the workouts also become very efficient which is always a good thing on a business trip or vacation.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

How Do You Use The KAATSU Cycle?

The new KAATSU Cycle unit enables blood flow moderation exercise that involves 8 cycles of a set amount of pressure.

The KAATSU Cycle can be used as (1) a warm-up for KAATSU performance training, (2) a part of rehabilitation, (3) a form of recovery, and/or (4) serve as an entire workout in itself.

It can be done anywhere – at the office, at school, in an airplane, at home, or before and after a hard workout.

There are two basic types of KAATSU Cycles: (1) the KAATSU Cycle function on the KAATSU Master unit and KAATSU Nano unit, and (2) the KAATSU Cycle functions on the KAATSU Cycle unit.

The KAATSU Full Cycle on the KAATSU Master unit and KAATSU Nano unit consist of 8 cycles of 20 seconds of pressure on followed by 5 seconds of no pressure. This KAATSU Full Cycle is 3 minutes and 20 seconds long. It can be repeated as the user wishes up to 20 minutes. The KAATSU Short Cycle on the KAATSU Master unit and KAATSU Nano unit consist of 4 cycles of 20 seconds of pressure on followed by 5 seconds of no pressure. This KAATSU Short Cycle is 1 minute and 40 seconds long. It can used as a warm-up before or as a cool-down after a traditional training session.

On both the KAATSU Full Cycle and KAATSU Short Cycle, the pressure starts at a low level and gradually increases by 10 SKUs on the arms - or by 20 SKUs on the legs until the optimal pressure is reached on the last cycle.



























The KAATSU Cycle is great for exercising in the office, exercising without the need to change out of your work clothes, exercising without the worry about perspiration, exercising in your airplane seat or on long rides in a car, bus, or train, reducing atrophy when injured or in a cast, sling, or brace, warming up for a traditional workout, cooling down from an intense workout or weight-training session.

During the KAATSU Cycle, users can simply sit still while reading, watching television, writing emails, playing games, stretching, yoga, doing isometric exercises or doing the standard KAATSU 3-point exercises. The KAATSU 3-point exercises on the arms includes 3 sets of hand grips, 3 sets of bicep curls, and 3 sets of tricep extensions. The KAATSU 3-point exercises on the legs includes 3 sets of toe curls, 3 sets of toe raises, and 3 sets of heel raises, or alteratively 3 sets of squats, leg extensions, or leg curls.







































On the KAATSU Master and on the KAATSU Nano, there is only one level of KAATSU Cycle. It is called CYCLE 20 or 20 seconds of pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off. The pressure gradually increases by 10 SKU on each subsequent cycle on the arms and the pressure gradually increases by 20 SKU on each subsequent cycle on the legs.

On the KAATSU Master, the KAATSU Specialist or the KAATSU user can select their preferred SKU pressure from 0 – 500 SKU. As the pressure increases, the amount of venous blood flow back to the heart decreases and the exercise becomes more difficult.

On the KAATSU Nano, the KAATSU Specialist or the KAATSU user can select the preferred SKU pressure from 0 – 500 SKU. As the pressure increases, the amount of venous blood flow back to the heart decreases and the exercise becomes more difficult.

For example, if a KAATSU user selects 200 SKU in the KAATSU Cycle mode on their arms, the KAATSU user will experience the following protocol that continues for a total of 3 minutes 40 seconds:

Cycle #1: 20 seconds of 130 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #2: 20 seconds of 140 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #3: 20 seconds of 150 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #4: 20 seconds of 160 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #5: 20 seconds of 170 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #6: 20 seconds of 180 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #7: 20 seconds of 190 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #8: 20 seconds of 120 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)

If a KAATSU user selects 300 SKU in the KAATSU Cycle mode on their legs, the KAATSU user will experience the following protocol that continues for a total of 3 minutes 40 seconds:

Cycle #1: 20 seconds of 160 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #2: 20 seconds of 180 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #3: 20 seconds of 200 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #4: 20 seconds of 220 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #5: 20 seconds of 240 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #6: 20 seconds of 260 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #7: 20 seconds of 280 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #8: 20 seconds of 300 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)




























In the new specialty KAATSU Cycle unit, there are 3 levels of KAATSU Cycle:

o Low or CYCLE 20 for older users or individuals with the lowest level of fitness: 20 seconds on + 5 seconds off
o Medium or CYCLE 40 for middle-age users or individuals with an average level of fitness: 40 seconds on + 20 seconds off
o High or CYCLE 60 for younger users or individuals with the lowest level of fitness: 60 seconds on + 20 seconds off

CYCLE 20 provides the lowest and shortest amount of pressure and is meant for older KAATSU users (i.e., those over the age of 50) or those individuals with the lowest level of general fitness. CYCLE 20 can be done more than once and repeated up to 15 minutes in total.

CYCLE 40 provides the medium amount of pressure and is meant for middle-age KAATSU users (i.e., those over the age of 30) or those individuals with an average level of general fitness. CYCLE 40 can be done more than once and repeated up to 15 minutes in total.

CYCLE 60 provides the highest amount of pressure and is meant for younger KAATSU users (i.e., those younger than 30 years) or those individuals with the highest level of general fitness. CYCLE 60 can be done more than once and repeated up to 15 minutes in total.

If you or the users are in any doubt, it is always better to start conservatively with lower pressures than recommended above. Once the user becomes accustomed to KAATSU - which will be very quickly - then higher pressures can be used.

The Base and Optimal pressure for each KAATSU Cycle is shown above in a chart and summarized below:

o CYCLE 20: 8 cycles @ 15 SKU Base pressure + increasing to 100 SKU Optimal pressure
o CYCLE 40: 8 cycles @ 20 SKU Base pressure + increasing to 150 SKU Optimal pressure
o CYCLE 60: 8 cycles @ 25 SKU Base pressure + increasing to 200 SKU Optimal pressure

The duration for each KAATSU Cycle is below:

o CYCLE 20: 3 minutes 20 seconds
o CYCLE 40: 6 minutes 40 seconds
o CYCLE 60: 10 minutes 40 seconds

In summary, pressures during a CYCLE 20 session are shown below:

Cycle #1: 20 seconds of 30 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #2: 20 seconds of 40 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #3: 20 seconds of 50 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #4: 20 seconds of 60 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #5: 20 seconds of 70 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #6: 20 seconds of 80 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #7: 20 seconds of 90 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #8: 20 seconds of 100 SKU pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)

Pressures during a CYCLE 40 session are shown below:

Cycle #1: 40 seconds of 80 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #2: 40 seconds of 90 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #3: 40 seconds of 100 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #4: 40 seconds of 110 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #5: 40 seconds of 120 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #6: 40 seconds of 130 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #7: 40 seconds of 140 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #8: 40 seconds of 150 SKU pressure on followed by 10 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)

Pressures during a CYCLE 60 session are shown below:

Cycle #1: 60 seconds of 130 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #2: 60 seconds of 140 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #3: 60 seconds of 150 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #4: 60 seconds of 160 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #5: 60 seconds of 170 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #6: 60 seconds of 180 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #7: 60 seconds of 190 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)
Cycle #8: 60 seconds of 200 SKU pressure on followed by 20 seconds of pressure off (0 SKU)

In summary, there are some important points to remember:

* The KAATSU Cycle has pre-set pressures and time durations. * The higher the Base SKU, the more challenging the Optimal SKU will feel. * The lower the Base SKU, the easier the Optimal SKU will fee. * The critical pressure is the combination of the Base SKU and the Optimal SKU.

Regarding age, the highest pressures generally occur between ages 20-30 and decrease for older individuals. Dr Jim Stray-Gundersen, the Chief Medical Officer of KAATSU Global, explains, "There is an overlay of 'physiologic' age that modifies the chronological age. That is, for elderly users who may have stiff, damaged arteries, use relatively low pressures."

Regarding relative fitness, the fitter the subject is, the higher the pressures can be. That is, a more fit individuals or those who have been doing KAATSU for some time can increase from the Cycle 20 to the Cycle 40 to the Cycle 60.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

Who Can Do KAATSU?

Traditional KAATSU training is done by hundreds of thousands of people around the world on a daily basis. This number is forecasted to explode with the new KAATSU Cycle product.

Who can safely and effectively use KAATSU? The simple answer is that when KAATSU is done properly and according to the standard KAATSU protocols as established by its inventor Dr Sato, it is a safe exercise for nearly everyone (see exceptions below).

The KAATSU Cycle or the KAATSU Master or the KAATSU Nano can be used by any of the following individuals:

• Athletes and non-athletes
• Males and females
• Teenagers and retirees
• Injured and healthy individuals

Those who should not do KAATSU include pregnant women, heart rehabilitation patients or those individuals with the following conditions:

• Acute myocardial infarction
• Unstable angina
• Ventricular tachycardia or severe arrhythmia
• Serious case of cardiac insufficiency (NYHA class IV)
• Serious aortic stenosis
• Acute pulmonary embolism or lung infarction
• Acute myocarditis or pericarditis
• Acute vena cava dissociation































Although there is no limit on the maximum age of those who can use KAATSU (with the oldest person being 104 years), it is recommended that KAATSU training is limited used to those who at least 14 years of age.

This recommendation is unrelated to the effects or safety of KAATSU; rather, it is a recommendation based on observations that a small number of overly ambitious coaches can push young children too much or too far with a new training modality. As children grow and develop in their teenage years, KAATSU can be prudently incorporated into their training regimens - without the pressure of performing at maximal levels before they reach puberty.

Copyright © 2014 - 2015 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Research Activities

Research on KAATSU has ranged from equine subjects to human athletes and has included mice, rats, goats and people of various ages. Research has been conducted at the University of Tokyo Hospital and Osaka University in Japan, at Peking University and Jilin University in China, at the Harvard Medical School and University of Missouri in the United States, at the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in São Paulo, Brazil, and many other universities and academic research institutions.

The photos above show Chinese scientists attaching regular KAATSU Air Bands on the hind legs of goats in northern China under the auspices of China's State General Administration of Sports, the government agency responsible for sports in China that also administers the Chinese Olympic Committee.

In the United States, Dr. James Stray-Gundersen, Chief Medical Officer of KAATSU Global, is leading the research direction and activities of KAATSU in a variety of applications and areas.

At the SG Performance Medicine Center and Sport Technologies in the United States Ski & Snowboard Association's Center of Excellence in Park City, Dr. Stray-Gundersen first used a variety of equipment to monitor the effects of KAATSU on athletes.

His tools included the First Beat Body Guard (heart rate monitor and accelerometer), MOXY Near Infrared Spectroscopy (SmO2 and muscle oxygen saturation), Sonosite MicroMaxx Doppler Ultrasound (arterial and venous blood flow), and Nelcor Pulse Oximeter (SpO2 and arterial oxygen saturation) [shown on left].

He first presented his findings in Tokyo, Japan at the 10th KAATSU International Symposium at the University of Tokyo.

He then presented his work and recommendations in London, England at the Elite Sports Expo.

Dr. Stray-Gundersen will present his latest findings and mechanism of KAATSU at the Joseph B. Martin Conference Center at the Harvard Medical School on November 5th - 6th at the KAATSU Symposium in Boston.

For more information on the KAATSU Symposium, visit the KAATSU website.

Since 2013, Dr. Stray-Gundersen has gained experience from thousands of sessions in hundreds of clients encompassing people of both genders, from 9-90 years of age, levels of fitness from Olympians to sedentary, with a wide variety of musculo-skeletal problems that are aided by KAATSU Training.

Dr. Stray-Gundersen received his Board Certification in General Surgery in 1985. He then completed Post Doctoral Fellowships in Cardiovascular Physiology and Human Nutrition at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School (UTSW) where he received appointments as Assistant Professor in the Departments of Orthopedic Surgery, and Cardiology. While on faculty, over 20 years at UTSW, Dr. Stray-Gundersen conducted research and built and directed two World Class Human Performance Centers associated with leading hospitals, St. Paul and Baylor. Dr. Stray-Gundersen’s primary interest and area of research is human performance, the physiology of health and fitness/wellness through exercise prescription, markers of overtraining, nutrition as it applies to performance and health, altitude acclimatization and training (pioneered Live Hi/Train Low), and anti doping (developed anti doping test SAFE – Safe and Fair Events).

Since 1984, Dr Stray-Gundersen has worked with numerous Olympians in various sport disciplines advising on training for Maximal Human Performance and has an ongoing relationship with the great runner and director of the NIKE Oregon Project, Alberto Salazar. Dr. Stray-Gundersen has been active in the fight against doping, particularly, blood doping.

He, along with colleagues Dr. Tapio Videman and Dr. Ingaard Lereim, they performed the the first non-invasive anti-blood doping testing at the 1989 World Championships in Lahti, Finland and his work continued with the development and implementation of the SAFE Test — Safe and Fair Events — which was the precursor for the Hematologic passport, considered by some to have minimized the extent and magnitude of blood doping in International Sport.

He has been an official physician/consultant/staff of United States, Norwegian, and Canadian Olympic Teams, and an official staff member of numerous World Championships in the sports of cross country skiing, nordic combined, ski jumping, alpine skiing, speed skating, biathlon, track and field, road cycling and swimming.

Dr Stray-Gundersen has served and consulted for many International Medical Committees that include the International Olympic Committee (IOC), International Football Federation (FIFA), International Biathlon Committee (IBU), International Ski Federation (FIS), and the International Skating Union (ISU). He has worked with the World Anti Doping Association (WADA) and the US Anti Doping Agency (USADA). Dr. Stray-Gundersen is the Sports Science Advisor for the US Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA), and continues to lead Human Performance and Altitude Camps for Olympic Athletes, Masters Athletes, as well as Navy SEALs to optimize performance.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Described And Explained On Super Human Radio

"Most people believe the adage, 'Work smarter, not harder', when it comes to building muscle. Could KAATSU Training be the holy grail of muscle gains? Are there do's and don'ts that you should know about?" asks Super Human Radio host Carl Lanore.

Dr. James Stray-Gundersen, Chief Medical Officer of KAATSU Global, goes into depth on Super Human Radio with Lanore on KAATSU and its implications and applications in sports performance, wellness and rehabilitation.

Listen to the archived broadcast here.

Super Human Radio is a popular radio broadcast show headquartered from Louisville, Kentucky dedicated to improving all aspects of human performance through physical culture, ancestral nutrition and effective supplementation.

Copyright © 2014 - 2015 by KAATSU Global

Dr James Stray-Gundersen Live On Super Human Radio

Dr. James Stray-Gundersen, Chief Medical Officer of KAATSU Global, will be heard live on Super Human Radio on Monday, October 12th from 1-2 pm (New York time) with host Carl Lanore [shown on left].

Carl and Dr. Jim will discuss KAATSU training and its implications in sports performance, wellness and rehabilitation.

Listen live at Shoutcast (search for the Super Human Channel).

Rebroadcasts can be heard in the Archive section of Super Human Radio.com.

What is the aim of Super Human Radio? Super Human Radio is a popular radio broadcast show headquartered from Louisville, Kentucky dedicated to improving all aspects of human performance through physical culture, ancestral nutrition and effective supplementation.






Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Premieres In Germany

On September 4th at the University in Bonn, KAATSU Specialist Robert Heiduk presented KAATSU training and equipment (KAATSU Master, KAATSU Nano and KAATSU Air Bands) at the strength and conditioning Athletik-Konferenz 2015.

Heiduk's presentation was the official KAATSU premiere in Germany. The premiere was met with great interest among the participants representing various sports.

40 Strength and Conditioning specialists and physios attended on the pre-conference KAATSU introduction workshop and learned about the KAATSU Cycle, how to safely and effectively go to failure without heavy weights, and why sending failure signals up to the CNS is important.

They were convinced KAATSU presents a new and important paradigm in helping athletes achieve their full potential and helping others from all walks of life rehabilitate and improve their state of wellness.

Das war KAATSU auf der Athletik-Konferenz 2015 (in German)

Die offizielle KAATSU Deutschland Premiere auf der Athletik-Konferenz in Bonn stieß auf großes Interesse. Im Auditorium des KAATSU Workshops waren Teilnehmer der unterschiedlichsten Sportarten vertreten.

So bot der KAATSU Workshop eine gelungene Mischung aus wissenschaftlichen Hintergründen, Fallbeispielen und praktischer Demonstration. Insbesondere die sportartspezifischen Einsatzmöglichkeiten konnten in der Praxis anschaulich dargestellt werden, denn neben der Rehabilitation, bietet das über Jahrzehnte in Japan gewachsene KAATSU-Konzept zahlreiche Möglichkeiten für die nahtlose sportgerechte Integration.

Zu guter letzt wurden auch die aktuellen Missverständnisse und inflationären Terminologien bezüglich KAATSU und diversen BFR bzw. Okklusionsmethoden behandelt.

Das anspruchsvolle KAATSU Konzept konnte die Teilnehmer überzeugen und wir freuen uns beim Einzug von KAATSU in den deutschsprachigen Raum dabei zu sein.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Terminology

For who? Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery



























Air Bladder: the pneumatic bladder inside the KAATSU Air Bands and KAATSU Aqua Bands that inflate and deflate in specific amounts (Standard KAATSU Units) controlled by the KAATSU Master, KAATSU Nano or KAATSU Cycle equipment.

All-out: to exercise or do KAATSU Training with maximum effort.

Base Pressure: the compression of the noninflated KAATSU Air Bands and KAATSU Aqua Bands when the Air Bands are first manually affixed to the limbs. Also known as Base SKU and measured in SKU (Standard KAATSU Units).

Base SKU: the compression of the noninflated KAATSU Air Bands and KAATSU Aqua Bands when the Air Bands are first manually affixed to the limbs. Also known as Base Pressure and measured in SKU (Standard KAATSU Units).

BFR: an acronym for Blood Flow Restriction training, also known as occlusion training or tourniquet training. The blood flow restriction in the limbs is caused by the tightening of knee wraps, ropes, tubing, or blood pressure cuffs around the limbs. BFR is not KAATSU Training.

Bicep Curl: any type of weight training or resistance exercises or KAATSU Training that target the biceps branchii muscle where the hands are raised towards the shoulders until the forearms are vertical with the elbows and upper arm remaining close to the body.

Capillary Refill Time (or CRT): the time in seconds taken for color to return to an external capillary bed (e.g., in the palm of the hands or above the knee on the quadriceps) after pressure is applied by a thumb to cause blanching. Also referred to as CRT in the KAATSU Master, KAATSU Nano or KAATSU Cycle equipment.

Central Nervous System: the complex of nerve tissues in the brain and spinal cord that controls the activities of the body.

CNS: an acronym for Central Nervous System.

CRT: an acronym for Capillary Refill Time or the time in seconds taken for color to return to an external capillary bed (e.g., in the palm of the hands or above the knee on the quadriceps) after pressure is applied by a thumb to cause blanching.

CYCLE 20: an 8-step process of releasing and applying pressure on either the upper arms or upper legs. One cycle includes the application of pressure for 20 seconds and the subsequent release of pressure for 5 seconds. There are 8 cycles in the CYCLE 20 process that takes 3 minutes 20 seconds in duration with a Base SKU of 15 and an Optimal SKU of 100. This function is in the KAATSU Master, KAATSU Nano and KAATSU Cycle equipment.

CYCLE 40: an 8-step process of releasing and applying pressure on either the upper arms or upper legs. One cycle includes the application of pressure for 40 seconds and the subsequent release of pressure for 10 seconds. There are 8 cycles in the CYCLE 40 process that takes 6 minutes 40 seconds in duration with a Base SKU of 20 and an Optimal SKU of 150. This function is in the KAATSU Cycle equipment.

CYCLE 60: an 8-step process of releasing and applying pressure on either the upper arms or upper legs. One cycle includes the application of pressure for 60 seconds and the subsequent release of pressure for 20 seconds. There are 8 cycles in the CYCLE 60 process that takes 10 minutes 40 seconds in duration with a Base SKU of 25 and an Optimal SKU of 200. This function is in the KAATSU Cycle equipment.

Disturbance of homeostasis: the state when the body’s natural internal environmental variables become disturbed and feedback is initiated to the central nervous system due to the engorgement of blood caused by KAATSU Training.

Go to failure: to continue exercising or moving until maximum effort has been reached and no more movement can be done or repetitions can be repeated.

Hand Clenches: an exercise where the hand is opened and closed to work the muscles of the hands and forearms. It is part of the 3-point Exercises for the Arms.

Heel Raises: an exercise where the heels are raised from the floor while either sitting down or standing up. It is part of the 3-point Exercises for the Legs.

KAATSU: a Japanese trademark meaning “additional pressure”, the original form of blood flow moderation training, rehabilitation and recovery invented and developed by Professor Sir Yoshiaki Sato, M.D., Ph.D., FNAI.

KAATSU Air Bands: specialized pneumatic bands that are affixed to the arms or legs with Velcro. The air bladder inside the Air Bands are inflated and deflated by the firmware of the KAATSU Master, KAATSU Nano and KAATSU Cycle equipment.

KAATSU Arm Bands: specialized pneumatic bands that are used around the upper arms for KAATSU Training.

KAATSU Aqua Bands: specialized pneumatic bands that are used around the upper arms and upper legs for KAATSU Aqua, a form of KAATSU Training that can be performed in swimming or therapy pools.

KAATSU Aqua Training: blood flow moderation training or rehabilitation performed in the water in the form of swimming, aqua-therapy or other forms of aquatic exercises performed with KAATSU Aqua Bands.

KAATSU Color: the resultant pinkness, rosiness or beefy redness in the skin in the limbs due to the engorgement of blood during KAATSU Training.

KAATSU Cycle: (1) brand name of KAATSU equipment, or (2) a means to warm-up the body for KAATSU Training with the KAATSU Master, KAATSU Nano or KAATSU Cycle equipment. It a type of KAATSU Training, therapy and recovery that involves either a 4 or 8 step process of releasing and applying pressure on the limbs at increasing levels of compression.

KAATSU Dose: the appropriate Base SKU and Optimal SKU that is specific for a given individual based on their age, physical condition, and amount of KAATSU Training experience.

KAATSU Instructor: an individual certified by KAATSU Japan Co., Ltd. to have studied and passed the KAATSU Specialist certification examination.

KAATSU Leg Bands: pneumatic bands that are used around the upper legs for KAATSU Training.

KAATSU Master: a portable 1134g (2.5 lbs.) touch-screen device that provides specific amounts of compressed air to the KAATSU Air Bands while recording and monitoring various data including Base SKU, Optimal SKU, time of KAATSU training, and capillary refill time.

KAATSU Master Instructor: an individual certified by KAATSU Japan Co., Ltd. to have studied and passed the KAATSU Specialist certification examination and completed the highest level of KAATSU Training in Japan.

KAATSU Nano: a portable handheld 263g (9.7 oz.) touch-screen device that provides specific amounts of compressed air to the KAATSU Air Bands while recording and monitoring various data including Base SKU, Optimal SKU, time of KAATSU Training, and capillary refill time.

KAATSU Pressure: the compression of the KAATSU Air Bands or KAATSU Aqua Bands around the limbs as measured in SKUs or Standard KAATSU Units.

KAATSU Protocols: the standard KAATSU procedures and know-how that enable safe and effective KAATSU Training and rehabilitation for individuals of all ages and conditions. Invented by Professor Sir Yoshiaki Sato, M.D., Ph.D., FNAI in 1966 and since patented.

KAATSU Specialist: an individual certified by KAATSU Global, Inc. to have studied and passed the KAATSU Specialist certification examination.

KAATSU Training: the original form of blood flow moderation training, rehabilitation and recovery invented and developed by Professor Sir Yoshiaki Sato, M.D., Ph.D., FNAI.

Leg Curls: an exercise to primarily work the hamstring by raising the foot backwards to the gluteus maximus. It is part of the alternative 3-point Exercises for the Legs.

Muscular Failure: the point in KAATSU Training or rehabilitation where no continued movement or additional exercise can be performed.

Non-lock Exercises: exercises where there is only partial extension of the limbs so the muscles are always engaged during KAATSU Training.

Occlusion training: blood flow restriction training to the limbs caused by the tightening of knee wraps, ropes, tubing or blood pressure cuffs around the limbs. Also known as BFR training or tourniquet training. Occlusion training is not KAATSU Training.

Optimal Pressure: the compression of the inflated KAATSU Air Bands after the Air Bands have been inflated according to the KAATSU protocols. Also known as Optimal SKU and measured in SKU (Standard KAATSU Units).

Optimal SKU: the compression of the inflated KAATSU Air Bands after the Air Bands have been inflated according to the KAATSU protocols. Also known as Optimal Pressure and measured in SKU (Standard KAATSU Units).

Petechiae: bleeding under the skin that can occur from broken blood vessels. It appears as tiny pinpoint red dots on the skin of the upper arm in some people as a result of KAATSU Training.

Pulsation: the rhythmical throbbing of an artery that is felt under the KAATSU Arm Bands or KAATSU Leg Bands.

Rep: a motion or exercise (such as a bicep curl or push-up) that is repeated and counted during KAATSU Training. Also referred to as a repetition.

Repetition: a motion or exercise (such as a bicep curl or push-up) that is repeated and counted during KAATSU Training. Also referred to as a rep.

SKU: Standard KAATSU Unit, approximately equivalent to mmHg as measured by the original KAATSU Air Sensor for the KAATSU Air Bands.

Squat: an exercise that trains primarily the muscles of the thighs, hips, gluteus maximus, quadriceps, and hamstrings by bending the knees and hips to lower the torso and returning to the standing position. It is part of the alternative 3-point Exercise for the Legs.

Technical failure: the point in KAATSU Training or rehabilitation where muscular movement can be performed but the proper technique is poor or lost or where the original form and/or speed is compromised.

Tourniquet training: blood flow restriction training to the limbs caused by the tightening of knee wraps, ropes, tubing or blood pressure cuffs around the limbs. Also known as BFR training or occlusion training. Occlusion training is not KAATSU Training.

3-point Exercises: a set of 3 different exercises that help indicate the Optimal SKU and can form the basis of KAATSU Training or serve as a warm-up.

3-point Exercises for Arms: a set of 3 different exercises for the arms that include 3 – 4 sets of hand clenches, 3 – 4 sets of bicep curls, and 3 – 4 sets of triceps extensions. The hand clenches can be done with hand grips if desired. The bicep curls can be done with light weights if desired. The triceps extensions can be done with light resistance if desire.

3-point Exercises for Legs: a set of 3 different exercises for the legs that include 3 – 4 sets of either toe curls (performed without shoes), toe raises and heel raises. These exercises can also alternatively include leg curls or squats.

Toe Curls: an exercise that works the toes and feet when the toes are curled under the foot. It is part of the 3-point Exercises for the Legs.

Triceps Extension: a strength-building exercise that stimulate the triceps in the upper arms. It is part of the 3-point Exercises for the Arms.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

Re-Conditioning with KAATSU after Surgery

For who? Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? rehabilitation, mobility, flexibility, recovery


























































In order to quickly and effectively re-condition with KAATSU after surgery on the lower limbs, KAATSU recommendations are as follows.

Equipment
Use either the KAATSU Master or KAATSU Nano together with the KAATSU Air Bands (both arm and leg bands)

Regimen:
Includes KAATSU Cycle (preferably on both the arms and legs) + KAATSU 3-point Exercises (first on arms and then on legs) or KAATSU Performance Training (on either arms and/or legs)

Frequency:
2-3 times per week minimum, but sometimes more frequent (5-6 times per week) if desired/possible

KAATSU Cycle Regimen (Standard):
Step 1: Find the your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Do 1-2 sets of the standard KAATSU Cycle (i.e., 8 cycle of 20 seconds on + 5 seconds off)
Step 3: Proceed to either Advanced KAATSU Cycle** or KAATSU 3-point Exercises on arms

KAATSU Cycle Regimen (Advanced)**:
Option 1
Step 1: Find the your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Purposefully increase SKU to a higher pressure level than Optimal (e.g., 260 SKU)
Step 3: Do 1-2 sets of the Advanced KAATSU Cycle at this higher level as possible (i.e., 8 cycle of 20 seconds on + 5 seconds off). Contract your muscles in the positive and negative directions (i.e., going both up and down).

Option 2
Step 1: Find the your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Purposefully increase SKU to a higher pressure level than Optimal (e.g., 260 SKU)
Step 3: Do 1-2 sets of the Advanced KAATSU Cycle for longer at this higher level as possible (i.e., 8 cycle of 40 seconds on + 10 seconds off). Contract your muscles in the positive and negative directions (i.e., going both up and down).

Option 3
Step 1: Find the your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Purposefully increase SKU to a higher pressure level than Optimal (e.g., 260 SKU)
Step 3: Do 1-2 sets of the Advanced KAATSU Cycle for longer at this higher level as possible (i.e., 8 cycle of 60 seconds on + 20 seconds off). Contract your muscles in the positive and negative directions (i.e., going both up and down).

** As you become stronger and more accustomed to KAATSU, your ability to handle higher pressures for longer periods becomes readily apparent, but you and the KAATSU Specialist should always start off conservatively. Your body will acclimate well, but at the beginning, you should always error on the side of lower pressures.

KAATSU 3-point Exercise for the Arms:
Step 1: Find your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: 3 sets of the hand grips (note: the number of repetitions should decrease with each subsequent set)
Step 3: 3 sets of bicep curls. Contract your biceps in the positive and negative directions (i.e., going both up and down).
Step 4: 3 sets of triceps extensions. Contract your triceps in the positive and negative directions (i.e., going both up and down).
Step 5: Proceed to KAATSU 3-point Exercise on legs

KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the Legs:
Step 1: Find your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: 3 sets of the toe curls (note: the number of repetitions should decrease with each subsequent set)
Step 3: 3 sets of heel raises
Step 4: 3 sets of either squats (quarter or full) or leg curls

KAATSU Performance Training for either Arms or Legs:
Step 1: Find your Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Do the preferred activity of the patient (e.g., walking, resistance training, stretching, mobility exercises, rehabilitation)

Notes:
*The number of repetitions should decrease with each subsequent set.
*Alternatively, if you are walking on a treadmill, the total time should be limited to 20 minutes.
*If you are using your upper body, the total number should be limited to 15 minutes.
*You can elect to do both arms and legs (but not simultaneously) during the same session if you wish.

Photo is courtesy of KAATSU inventor Dr. Yoshiaki Sato helping to rehabilitate an older patient recover from her recent surgery.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

Pre-Conditioning with KAATSU Before Surgery

For who? Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery




















































In order to quickly and effectively pre-condition with KAATSU before surgery on the lower limbs, KAATSU recommendations are as follows:

Equipment:
Use either the KAATSU Master or KAATSU Nano together with the KAATSU Air Bands (both arm and leg bands)

Preparation
*Be well-hydrated before starting KAATSU
*Always follow KAATSU protocols (i.e., always have good capillary refill within 2 – 3 seconds, no occlusion, no numbness)
*Always start with the KAATSU Cycle (i.e., 8 cycles of 20 seconds pressure on + 5 seconds pressure off)

Key Points
*KAATSU can be done daily, even twice per day during rehabilitation or recovery from injuries
*KAATSU should be done on both the arms and legs for the optimal systemic effects, regardless of where the injury is
*Use a high Base SKU and the highest Optimal SKU that is safe and falls within the standard KAATSU guidelines
*Always begin with at least 2-3 KAATSU Cycles on arms and legs
*Do not release the air in the KAATSU Air Bands throughout the entire reconditioning workout (unless, of course, you feel numbness or become lightheaded)
*Never have pain in the joint, tendon or bone while doing KAATSU
*Always use the correct form in any movements
*The rest between sets and between exercises should be no more than 20 seconds maximum

Protocols
STEP 1: Start with the KAATSU Cycle on the arms at an average Base SKU and average Optimal SKU (e.g., if your Optimal SKU is 250 SKU, start with an SKU of 220-230). Do 1 – 2 more KAATSU Cycles on the arms as a warm-up.

STEP 2: Set the appropriate Base SKU and Optimal SKU on the arms and do either the KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the arms* or a specific upper body workout with the KAATSU Arm Bands on. If the KAATSU 3-point Exercises are done, do 3 sets each of (1) hand clenches (optionally with hand grips), (2) bicep curls (optionally with light resistance), and (3) triceps extensions (optimally with light resistance) until muscular failure.

STEP 3: Remove KAATSU Arm Bands and place KAATSU Leg Bands on to begin the KAATSU Cycle on the legs.

STEP 4: Do one normal KAATSU Cycle (i.e., 8 cycles of 20 seconds pressure on + 5 seconds pressure off).

STEP 5: Do 3 – 5 modified KAATSU Cycles of 60 seconds pressure on + 20 seconds pressure off at the highest Base SKU and Optimal SKU as possible.

STEP 6: Do the KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the legs or 3 sets of (a) heel raises, (b) standing hamstring curls, and (c) non-lock partial extension squats (both one-leg and two-leg if possible), and walking or other recommended movements as recommended by the physical therapist.

Reminders
*If you can do over 40 repetitions before reaching failure, then the Base SKU and Optimal SKU are too low. Increase the Base SKU or Optimal SKU so ideally the number of repetitions on the first set is 30 repetitions before failure.
*Always breathe throughout the KAATSU exercises and remain well-hydrated.
*Always go to muscle failure on each set. On the last set of each exercise, muscular failure should come quickly.
*A disturbance of homeostasis will occur and muscular discomfort will be significant.
*Because KAATSU has systemic effects, it is recommended to also do KAATSU on the arms in addition to the legs.

Copyright © 2014 - 2015 by KAATSU Global

Is Motor Learning Enhanced With KAATSU?

For who? Baby Boomers, retirees, student-athletes
For what? Strength, stamina, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, recovery




















































The mechanism behind the concept that motor learning is enhanced with KAATSU is complicated.

Fundamentally, there is much activity going on within the central nervous system when we address the issue about motor control and learning. Many of the explanations are linear and disregard the emotional aspects of the brain in adaption with motor load.

Motor learning in the KAATSU examples given below are simplified around the ideas of perfection, gross amount of repetitions, and then mastery of the skill. However, the reality, is that the process is far from that simple.

Where KAATSU excels and provides a realistic modeling of motor learning is knowing the dose dependent amount of load, repetitions (note: more is not better), and knowing a learning curve for each individual. This is why finding the appropriate Base SKU and exercising at the Optimal SKU to technical failure is so important when doing KAATSU.

Motor learning is a combination of changes in connectivity observed in not only motor systems (in the brain), but more so to activity in sensory brain regions (e.g.; emotional, visual, and neuromuscular). Thus, if we look at the traditional Japanese ways of training, we also look at their attention to learning by example, visual systems, felt experience, and actually loading the movement process.

When research studies removed effects of somatosensory activity, learning resulted in changes to frontal motor areas of the brain. This suggests that motor learning must be emotional, visual, and neuromuscular - and not a singular process of repetitions. This is one reason why when we teach a new activity or try to improve upon a known activity, we ask the athlete and coach to literally focus on the movement and video-record the movement until technical failure (not muscular failure).

Technical failure is when the athlete/client is no longer moving the body/muscles in the proper (technical flawless) manner. The concept of technical failure is fundamental with KAATSU.

KAATSU Specialists should always insist on good form and proper technique. When doing KAATSU and when getting to the point of technical failure, they ask the athlete/client to stop doing KAATSU. Technical failure nearly always precedes muscular failure. This is also why the Japanese coaches of elite athletes use KAATSU arm and leg bands at the same time.

In summary, if what we are talking about is the idea that motor learning takes place by repeated practice of a motor pattern, then it is primarily a brain function involving the motor and sensory cortex and areas of memory, proprioception, balance and probably many others. There is also likely some component of the mechanism involving the peripheral nerves and the muscle fibers they innervate. KAATSU influences these structures, but we do not precisely know how...and the subject of future KAATSU research. But we speculate that when we are performing a particular motor pattern under duress (i.e., with KAATSU), the memory of the event is amplified and saved in more vivid detail.

This is why we repeat the event in the exact same way until technical failure.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU Equipment Leasing and Financing

Instead of paying in full for KAATSU equipment, KAATSU Specialists and users can now pay monthly for their equipment and certification. KAATSU Global has formed an alliance with eLease to finance KAATSU equipment purchases for either 24 or 36 months.

The process is quite simple and requires only a one-page application and a copy of the first page of the borrower's last three month's bank statements. The complete process takes no more than 2-3 days.

These financing opportunities are ideal for individuals who cannot afford a one-time payment for the KAATSU Master Package, KAATSU Nano Package or KAATSU Cycle Package. Each package includes 4 KAATSU Air Bands (2 arms + 2 legs), a protective case, an extended warranty for 24 or 36 months, and all accessories.

Payments as shown below. These rates are subject to credit approval and credit worthiness and, as such, the rates may vary.

KAATSU Master Package (normally US$4,795): $249.13 (24 months) $188.94 (36 months)
KAATSU Nano Package (normally $2,850): US$146.53 (24 months) US$1110.52 (36 months)
KAATSU Cycle Package (normally US$1,875): US$109.64 (24 months) US$83.81 (36 months)
KAATSU Aqua Package (normally US$3,000): US$117.41 (24 months) US$76.72 (36 months)

Additionally eLease can finance multi-unit mixed assortment of equipment for large purchases. To figure the approximate monthly cost of a large purchase just multiply the 24- and 36-month lease rate factors times the U.S. dollar value of the order. These factors are 4.91% or 24 months and 3.56% for 36 months subject to the lender's credit criteria.

For more information, contact via telephone at toll-free +1-888-410-6350 or email info@kaatsu-usa.com.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

Olympic Coach's Journey To KAATSU

Copyright © 2015 by Christopher Morgan, 2008 Olympic Swim Coach

My coaching career has allowed me to chase my dreams and realize them; travel the world and learn new languages. Most importantly, and through a twist of fate, my travels inadvertently guided me to meet my best friend, my soul mate...my wife. I am fortunate and humbled by the athletes who I have worked with and the amazing mentors who have taught me invaluable lessons and bestowed upon me treasures of information and knowledge.

When I started coaching under the late Richard Quick at Stanford University in the 1990’s, I was nervous about making mistakes, yet comforted by Richard and his preacher-like aura.

Richard was a swimming genius and a magician of motivation. I remember someone once told me Richard “could make a rock swim…” I believe that to be true.

One thing that Richard was always keen about was new and innovative toys and tools that could help athletes get better. I am sure that some of that passion for new information was implanted in my 'swim coach' genetic code.

One of my more vivid memories of Richard and Stanford Swimming was when a young swimmer by the name of Misty Hyman came to join the legendary swimming family at Stanford University. One training tool that was traditionally associated with Misty was the monofin. However, some people might not have ever know that back during her training under Bob Gillett at AFOX in Arizona, and continued through a collaboration with Richard at Stanford, Misty would wear multiple large rubber bands around her thighs and upper arms.

Though it seemed strange, I was totally captivated by this unique way of restricting blood flow to the extremities while raising the heart rate through training. I did not think much about it...at least not for 15 years.

Jump ahead to 2013...

After a very successful coaching career in Switzerland, I returned to Stanford for a brief coaching opportunity in 2012 and then relocated to Boston in the spring to take on the assistant coaching position at Harvard University. My fortune continued while at Harvard, most importantly one day while sitting in my office and observing 2012 Olympian Alex Meyer dive into the pool for an early swim with Olympic coach Tim Murphy. On this particular day, someone else accompanied Alex and Tim and they seemed to be testing some kind of equipment. My curiosity had never waned and I was drawn to the pool deck where I met their guest, Steven Munatones.

I was no stranger to Steven and his passion for swimming. I had read one of his books about Open Water Swimming while coaching some open water swimmers in Europe. I had also seen him at some meets and events many years prior. Coach Murphy and Steve were observing Alex swim a series of 50’s and I noticed some kind of bands wrapped around his upper arms as he trained. Alex was/is a true glutton for punishment, so when I saw his grimace after only a handful of 50’s at a moderate speed, I asked myself, 'What are these crazy arm bands?' I continued to watch as they switched to legs…OUFF, Alex maintained the same facial result.

I introduced myself to Steve and I think he immediately felt my enthusiasm for this interesting way of creating a 'race pain' without the need for a time-consuming test set. I asked many questions and requested Steve to come back and test the bands on me. He obliged and I was blown away. Steve and I talked about the rubber bands that I had seen Misty use so many years prior…he said the science was almost identical. He called these bands KAATSU the original BFR. He explained that the equipment and protocols and concepts were developed in Japan.

This was when KAATSU first entered my life and I will forever be indebted to this moment.

I followed this up by introducing the Head Women’s Coach at Harvard to this very interesting training tool. She believed in my philosophy and passion for 'outside of the box' training techniques and we steadily grew a relationship with Steve and some others who were practitioners of KAATSU. In order to safely and successfully implement the KAATSU Aqua Bands into our training, all parties agreed that the coaches should undertake some formal training in KAATSU and become KAATSU-certified. It was incredibly interesting, though I struggled with how exactly we would begin with the team.

Then, because of an injury, the how and why became crystal clear.

In early 2013 I had made a pack with myself to get fit. I needed and goal, so I set me eyes on a Tough Mudder obstacle race. It was a perfect event to get myself motivated to train and be ready. I even used the KAATSU Master to improve my fitness level. On the day of the event, at mile #10, I slipped on a log and smashed my side. The result was 2 broken ribs.

I continued to use the KAATSU Master and both arm and leg bands during my recovery. I was shocked at how fast the pain and sensitivity were diminished. I decided to see what was really happening. So 10 days after the x-rays revealed the broken ribs, I requested a second look. The doctor was in disbelief at how fast I had healed. This was all I needed to believe that KAATSU was the only reason for my quick recovery. I was TOTALLY IN and wanted the athletes that I work with to be able to benefit in any and all ways possible from a clear and methodical use of KAATSU.

I have never been so amazed at the results of anything in the sport of swimming as I am with a continued use of KAATSU Aqua Bands in everyday training. My athletes are not only healing pre-existing injuries, they are preventing injuries and making BIG time drops...this is HUGE!

Copyright © 2014 - 2015 by KAATSU Global

Reconditioning from Quadriceps Atrophy with KAATSU

Many athletes significantly atrophy due to injuries sustained in practice and gains. In order to quickly and effectively recondition with KAATSU from atrophy of the quadriceps, KAATSU recommendations are as follows using either the KAATSU Master or KAATSU Nano together with the KAATSU Air Bands (both arm and leg bands):

Preparation
*Be well-hydrated before starting KAATSU
*Always follow KAATSU protocols (i.e., always have good capillary refill within 2 – 3 seconds, no occlusion, no numbness)
*Always start with the KAATSU Cycle (i.e., 8 cycles of 20 seconds pressure on + 5 seconds pressure off)

Key Points
*KAATSU can be done daily, even twice per day during rehabilitation or recovery from injuries
*Use a high Base SKU and the highest Optimal SKU that is safe and falls within the standard KAATSU guidelines
*Always begin with at least 2-3 KAATSU Cycles on arms and legs
*Do not release the air in the KAATSU Air Bands throughout the entire reconditioning workout (unless, of course, you feel numbness or become lightheaded)
*Never have pain in the joint, tendon or bone while doing KAATSU
*Always sue the correct form in any movements
*The rest between sets and between exercises should be no more than 20 seconds maximum

Protocols
STEP 1: Start with the KAATSU Cycle on the arms at an average Base SKU and average Optimal SKU (e.g., if your Optimal SKU is 250 SKU, start with an SKU of 220-230). Do 1 – 2 more KAATSU Cycles on the arms as a warm-up.

STEP 2: Set the appropriate Base SKU and Optimal SKU on the arms and do either the KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the arms* or a specific upper body workout with the KAATSU Arm Bands on. If the KAATSU 3-point Exercises are done, do 3 sets each of (1) hand clenches (optionally with hand grips), (2) bicep curls (optionally with light resistance), and (3) triceps extensions (optimally with light resistance) until muscular failure.

STEP 3: Remove KAATSU Arm Bands and place KAATSU Leg Bands on to begin the KAATSU Cycle on the legs.

STEP 4: Do one normal KAATSU Cycle (i.e., 8 cycles of 20 seconds pressure on + 5 seconds pressure off).

STEP 5: Do 3 – 5 modified KAATSU Cycles of 60 seconds pressure on + 20 seconds pressure off at the highest Base SKU and Optimal SKU as possible.

STEP 6: Do the KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the legs or 3 sets of (a) heel raises, (b) standing hamstring curls, and (c) non-lock partial extension squats (both one-leg and two-leg if possible), and walking or other recommended movements as recommended by the physical therapist.

Reminders
*If you can do over 40 repetitions before reaching failure, then the Base SKU and Optimal SKU are too low. Increase the Base SKU or Optimal SKU so ideally the number of repetitions on the first set is 30 repetitions before failure.
*Always breathe throughout the KAATSU exercises and remain well-hydrated.
*Always go to muscle failure on each set. On the last set of each exercise, muscular failure should come quickly.
*A disturbance of homeostasis will occur and muscular discomfort will be significant, partly due to lactate build-up.
*KAATSU Aqua Bands can be used in a therapy pool or swimming pool to augment the recovery if aqua-therapy is also incorporated in the athlete’s rehabilitation program.
*Because KAATSU has systemic effects, it is recommended to also do KAATSU on the arms in addition to the legs.

Copyright © 2015 by KAATSU Global

Doing KAATSU With Multiple Sclerosis

Occasionally, individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) ask if they can do KAATSU.

The answer is YES. With individuals with multiple sclerosis, the KAATSU Specialist ask the individuals to do what they can with KAATSU. Individuals with multiple sclerosis fatigue early, but are otherwise normal. KAATSU Global fundamentally recommends the following:

* exercises that are safe to do (e.g., no falling off spinning bikes)
* get muscle mass distal to (below) the KAATSU Air Bands contracting rhythmically
* exercise the affected muscle mass to the extent the individuals can, regardless if it is distal to the KAATSU Air Bands
* exercises can include push-ups, leg squats, hip raises (on back), holding a weight ball and moving side to side, walking, or any kind of resistance training
* individuals should always be well-hydrated and never feel numbness in the limbs or lightheadedness
* individuals should always have a rosy/pink KAATSU color in their limbs due to the blood engorgement

Below is a standard regimen for individuals with multiple sclerosis developed by Dr. Yoshiaki Sato in Japan after thousands of sessions:

Regimen:
Includes KAATSU Cycle (on either arms and/or legs) + KAATSU 3-point exercises (on either arms and/or legs) or KAATSU Performance Training (on either arms and/or legs)

Frequency:
2-3 times per week minimum, but sometimes more frequent if desired/possible

KAATSU Cycle Regimen (Standard):
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Do 1-2 sets of the standard KAATSU Cycle (i.e., 8 cycle of 20 seconds on + 5 seconds off)
Step 3: Proceed to either Advanced KAATSU Cycle** or KAATSU 3-point Exercises on arms

KAATSU Cycle Regimen (Advanced)**:
Option 1
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Purposefully increase SKU to a higher pressure level than Optimal (e.g., 260 SKU)
Step 3: Do 1-2 sets of the Advanced KAATSU Cycle at this higher level as possible (i.e., 8 cycle of 20 seconds on + 5 seconds off)

Option 2
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Purposefully increase SKU to a higher pressure level than Optimal (e.g., 260 SKU)
Step 3: Do 1-2 sets of the Advanced KAATSU Cycle for longer at this higher level as possible (i.e., 8 cycle of 40 seconds on + 10 seconds off)

Option 3
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Purposefully increase SKU to a higher pressure level than Optimal (e.g., 260 SKU)
Step 3: Do 1-2 sets of the Advanced KAATSU Cycle for longer at this higher level as possible (i.e., 8 cycle of 60 seconds on + 20 seconds off)

** As the user becomes stronger and more accustomed to KAATSU, their ability to handle higher pressures for longer periods becomes readily apparent, but the user and the KAATSU Specialist should always start off conservatively. The body will acclimate well, but at the beginning, the user and KAATSU Specialist should always error on the side of lower pressures.

KAATSU 3-Point Exercises for Arms:
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: 3 sets of the hand grips (note: the number of repetitions should decrease with each subsequent set)
Step 3: 3 sets of bicep curls
Step 4: 3 sets of tricep extensions
Step 5: Proceed to KAATSU 3-point Exercise on legs

KAATSU 3-Point Exercises for Legs:
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: 3 sets of the toe curls (note: the number of repetitions should decrease with each subsequent set)
Step 3: 3 sets of heel raises
Step 4: 3 sets of either squats (quarter or full) or leg curls

KAATSU Performance Training for either Arms or Legs:
Step 1: Find the user's Optimal SKU (e.g., 200 SKU)
Step 2: Do the preferred activity of the patient (e.g., walking, resistance training, stretching, mobility exercises, rehabilitation)

Note: The number of repetitions should decrease with each subsequent set. Alternatively, if the user is walking on a treadmill, the total time should be limited to 20 minutes. If the user is using his upper body, the total number should be limited to 15 minutes. Users can elect to do both arms and legs during the same session if they wish.

Yvonne C. Learmonth and her colleagues at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign conducted a study in 2015 called "A novel approach to low level resistance training in multiple sclerosis; Kaatsu occlusion training".

Their research was funded by a grant awarded from the American College of Sports Medicine [see poster on left or here].

Their conclusion was that 6 weeks of thrice weekly low-level resistance training in people mildly to moderately affected with MS results in large and significant changes in lower limb strength. This suggests that short progressive low level resistance training intervention may be an effective intervention for many people affected with MS. Occlusion resistance training appears safe and acceptable to people mildly to moderately affected with MS.

Copyright © 2014 - 2015 by KAATSU Global

KAATSU 3-point Exercises For Legs

KAATSU 3-point Exercises are a fundamental part of the standard KAATSU protocol for both the arms and legs.

Dr. Yoshiaki Sato, who invented KAATSU in 1966, first established the KAATSU 3-point Exercises in the 1970s. These simple exercises have been performed safely and effectively among millions of individual KAATSU sessions among people of all ages and abilities with myriad physical conditions or ailments.

The KAATSU 3-point Exercises can either be used to help determine the optimal SKU pressure or as a form of basic exercise for both the arms and legs. After the Base SKU (manually applied pressure) is established, then the KAATSU 3-point Exercises is a means to determine if the Optimal SKU (inflated pressure of the pneumatic bands) is appropriate (read a more detailed explanation here).

Alternatively, especially for Baby Boomers and adults who are being reconditioned back to a state of wellness through a simple exercise program, the KAATSU 3-point Exercises can consist of their entire KAATSU training program. When the KAATSU 3-point Exercises are performed, the exercises can be performed either on a KAATSU Master or a KAATSU Nano or a KAATSU Cycle unit. The KAATSU 3-point Exercises can be performed while the user is either tethered (connected) or untethered (disconnected) to the units.

KAATSU Leg 3-point Exercises [illustrations posted on left]

The KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the legs are either defined as Standard or Advanced.

The Standard KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the legs involves toe curls, toe raises, and heel raises. These are all performed while the user is seated comfortably with good posture on a chair. In general, these are preferred for older or less fit individuals or those just starting an exercise program or KAATSU.

The Advanced KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the legs are alternatively used by more fit or active individuals or for those individuals with more experience in KAATSU. These 3 basic exercises includes heel raises, leg curls and squats. The heel raises can be done while sitting or standing. The leg curls can be performed while standing and holding onto a chair or balancing against a wall. The squats (or "chair touches") can be performed while bending the knees to touch a chair and then popping back up.

Ideally, the squats are "non-lock" (partial extension) so that the muscles are constantly engaged and there is no rest while the knees are "locked" straight (in a full extension). This will build up fatigue and lactic acid more quickly.

Each set of exercises should be done 3-4 times each with a maximum of 20 seconds between each set. Ideally, the number of repetitions for each exercise decreases before the user reaches muscular or technical failure (or fatigues).

That is, an ideal set would be 25-30 repetitions on set #1, 10-15 repetitions on set #2, and 5-10 repetitions on set #3. Even if only 1-2 repetitions are completed on the last set, this failure signal sent to the central nervous system is one of the goals of KAATSU.

KAATSU Arm 3-point Exercises [illustrations posted here]

The KAATSU 3-point Exercises for the arms involves hand clenches, bicep curls and tricep extensions. Each set of exercises is done 3 times each with a maximum of 20 seconds rest between each set. Ideally, the number of repetitions for each exercise decreases before the user reaches muscular or technical failure*.

That is, an ideal set would be 25-30 repetitions on set #1, 10-15 repetitions on set #2, and 5-10 repetitions on set #3. Even if only 1-2 repetitions are completed on the last set, this failure signal sent to the central nervous system is one of the goals of KAATSU.

* Technical failure is defined when the individual starts to do improper technique (movement) due to an increasing sense of fatigue. At this point, the set is stopped.

Copyright © 2014 - 2015 by KAATSU Global