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

A Radical New Plan For The Tokyo Olympic Games

For who? Olympic athletes
For what? COVID-19 pandemic






































In a metropolitan area of Tokyo with its population of 37.3 million people, over 11,000 athletes and thousands of officials, coaches, trainers, media representatives, and administrators from 207 countries around the world are expected to visit Tokyo for the rescheduled Tokyo Olympic Games between July 23rd to August 8th. The athletes from around the world will compete in 339 events in 33 different sports held in 33 different venues around the Tokyo area. The Paralympics, which is expected to attract over 4,300 athletes competing in 540 events in 22 sports, will follow between August 24th and September 5th.

Medical experts know that mixing of people from around the world serves to elevate risk and accelerate the probability of new COVID-19 variants emerging. It is expected that there will be 26,000 beds in the Olympic Village alone - plopped in the midst of one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Today, the International Olympic Committee, the International Paralympic Committee, and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee published its first playbook that outlines the expected and recommended personal responsibilities that the athletes, team officials and the media (see here). The purpose and top priority of the Playbook is to maintain the health and safety of everyone at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

As can be expected in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Olympic Family are expected to social distance, minimize physical interaction with others, avoid indoors and crowds wherever possible, use Olympic transportation while avoiding use of public transportation, wear a face mask, frequently wash hands, clap don’t sing or cheer to support athletes, and they will require documentation with a negative COVID-19 test certificate before entering Japan.

These are all internationally supported and documented means and strategies to minimize the transmission and infection of the COVID-19 virus among the athletes and the population of Tokyo and beyond.

“But these strategies and plans are based on the Olympics being held in its traditional 16-day format – where the world’s sporting community comes together all at once in a relatively small footprint in Tokyo,” observes Steven Munatones who served as a commentator for NBC at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in the inaugural 10 km marathon swim event. “In a pandemic, every sector of society has had to reevaluate its method of doing things. Manufacturing, operations, medicine, logistics, athletics, crowd control, government regulations, etc. Things are changing so quickly and so dramatically.

In the United States, the Super Bowl, the NBA season and playoffs, and the collegiate athletic season were all changed in some way. Some changes were small; other changes were significant. Honestly speaking, I wonder why the Tokyo Olympics does not become a long-running series of events. That is, as we ease out of this pandemic – slowly for sure – the world still thirsts for competition and the pageantry of the Olympics. So why not hold the Olympic and Paralympic Games over the course of several months – instead of 16 days?

The IOC and the various international governing bodies can hold their own Olympic Games in Tokyo on a weekly basis. Each sporting community can head their way to Tokyo and compete in the Olympic venues for Olympic medals on a weekly basis.

They can start with the smaller sports that lend themselves to social distancing – and end with the larger sports that require indoor venues. So, the Tokyo Olympics can start with sports like equestrian, archery, and beach volleyball, and end with basketball, boxing and team handball. Canoeing, cycling and sailing can happen somewhere in the middle.

Each of the Olympic sports can be highlighted each week, bringing in advertising dollars and television audiences to all the sports on a much larger basis. So instead of Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps dominating the news and airwaves over a 16-day period, many more athletes – who all bring incredible human interest stories to the table – can be showcased over a longer period of time. Imagine how the minor sports athletes could demonstrate their athletic prowess and depth of character to the world?

The coverage can be expanded in depth, in scope and in duration. Sponsors would love that. Television audiences would love it, even if the Olympics fell outside the traditional summer schedule and overlapped with other professional sports seasons.

Week by week, month by month, the IOC and the Olympic Family would remain on the minds and lips of fans and the world’s media. Ultimately, the overall global viewership and interest would result in a massive increase – I am positive of that.

And, of course, the Olympics with a vastly reduced number of athletes descending upon Tokyo and competing in a limited number of venues could be held in a safe, responsible manner – with minimal interruption into the daily lives of Tokyoites. With a reduced number of athletes, the possibility and threat of virus transmission would also be reduced. In one of the world’s most densely populated cities, this concern cannot be dismissed. As our knowledge and control over the pandemic gradually improves with time, the Olympic sports that require indoor facilities or that draw large crowds – like track and gymnastics – can be held.

Even the Opening Ceremonies could be undertaken with a different scale and purpose. Imagine an Opening Ceremonies held every two weeks with a slightly different focus and theme? Only the athletes who were competing that week would participate and the overall cost could come down. The Japanese with all their talent and ingenuity could not only pull that new kind of Olympics and Opening Ceremonies off, but they could also make a series of Opening Ceremonies that continues to entertain and impress the world’s community over a period of months – instead of a one-shot deal as there is now.

The rest of society has reshaped itself. Now is a perfect time and ideal opportunity to rethink and reshape and restart the traditional Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘Out of adversity comes opportunity.’ That statement seems to make a lot of sense now with the pandemic and the Olympic Games.

Of course, if this expanding and drawn-out rescheduling of the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games runs into the fixed schedule of the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, the Summer Games can take a hiatus and allow the Olympic focus to exclusively showcase Beijing in February 2022.

A rethinking is in order that can set the Olympic stage for the rest of the 21st century.”

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: Feeling Strong And Having Fun

For who? Working adults
For what? Fitness, wellness, stress relief, recovery



When BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) is viewed online, the images show many very fit, very strong, rather young people looking ripped. But a vast majority of KAATSU the Original BFR users are older people, including a majority of aging Baby Boomers who are not necessarily ripped, but interested in becoming more fit and reducing the pains and discomfort of their joints, back, neck and hips.

So while High Intensity Interval Training and resistance training (weightlifting) can be done with KAATSU equipment, it is much more highly recommended to simply move.

KAATSU Fitness spans all kinds of outdoor activities:
* Walk on the beach
* walk with your dog
* have fun with your friends
* do yoga
* fly a kite
* wash your car

With KAATSU Air Bands on in the KAATSU Cycle mode, a simple activity like walking or playing around will generate the metabolic equivalent of a moderate or higher intensity workout.

The easy to moderate movements with KAATSU equipment in the KAATSU Cycle mode will help overall fitness while being convenient to use and much more sustainable over a lifetime instead of intermittedly doing high intensity periods of training - and then quitting over time.

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

OwlEYE By Fundacji Start-Sport - KAATSU Polska

For who? Stay-at-home workers, white collar employees
For what? Comfort, stress relief
























Maciej Rybicki CEO of the Start-Sport Foundation - KAATSU Poland has been sharing the benefits, advantages and convenience of KAATSU with numerous individuals in Poland. With the assistance of veteran KAATSU Master Specialist Peter Lakatos, Maciej is training the Polish National Canoe Team on their way to the Tokyo Olympics this summer.

He says, "We believe that together we will achieve success at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics."

Additionally, Maciej has incorporated OwlEYE glasses with his clients and many others. "OwlEye, our blue light-blocking eyewear - is the gateway to our foundation for conscious people. At reasonable prices, we focus our attention on the incorporation of an entire range of products, KAATSU included."


























Maciej explains, "Blocker OwlEYE is a lens filter framed glasses that protects against the harmful effects of artificial light – in particular LED. The lenses are designed to block and absorb blue and green light. The Twilight OwlEYE Model [shown above] absorbs 99.29% blue light and 99.21% green light. OwlEYE Blocker is very effective in protecting the eyes when looking at a computer, laptop or smartphone screen, especially after dark. Wearing OwlEye supports our hormonal balance by assuring the production of melatonin, responsible for our normal daily cycle, and consequently – we can get healthier sleep, that is, the general condition of the body."

"Wear OwlEYE in the day while working in front of the computer with light, conservative KAATSU Cycles within an hour of going to bed, this combination is a great way to improve the quality of your sleep," says KAATSU CEO Steven Munatones.

Maciej explains, "Especially in the COVID-19 era when so many of us are working in front of our computers and then using our smartphones all day, our increased screen time has negative effects on our bodies and mind, such as eye strain, headaches and insomnia. OwlEYE and KAATSU Cycles can reverse - or prevent - those problems."



































































For more information, visit www.Start-Sport.pl or e-mail Maciej.Rybicki@Start-Sport.pl. For OwlEYE, visit www.owleye.pl.

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

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

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

Dr. Cory On What Experienced Athletes Can Do With KAATSU

For who? Competitive athletes, student-athletes, masters athletes
For what? Strength, functional movement, mobility, flexibility, warm-up, balance, wellness



Cory Keirn DPT, a veteran trainer and physical therapist from the World Wrestling Entertainment and Philadelphia Phillies, demonstrates different exercises that can be done with the KAATSU Cycle 2.0 and KAATSU Air Bands as part of any athletic performance regimen with KAATSU Fitness, the original BFR.

Copyright © 2014 - 2020 by KAATSU Global