Post-Natal KAATSU

A full postpartum recovery from pregnancy and childbirth is transformative and can takes months or years. While time and patience are required, KAATSU can play an extremely efficient 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 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 texting
* playing with and watching the baby

This is an example of 'double-stacking' with KAATSU. That is, KAATSU is being performed while focusing on another important activity.

The KAATSU Cycle mode's gentle, rhythmic, automated pressure 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 is sufficient.

The alternative 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 C3 or KAATSU B1 can also be used in combination with other fitness equipment (e.g., treadmills) or movements, from stretching and yoga to Pilates and different kinds of isometic exercises.

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 effectively workout with a minimum of time.






































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 Cycle sets. The systemic effect of KAATSU is 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.

Q5. How intense does KAATSU have to be to get results?
A5. KAATSU Cycles should be done gently, comfortably, and easily. There is no need to workout intensely or move vigorously while doing KAATSU Cycle sets 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 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

Why Do We Lose Muscle Strength With Age? Holding Off Sarcopenia

Dr. Peter Attia, a remarkable physician, a highly acclaimed and popular podcaster, a global longevity expert, and a regular KAATSU user, wrote anarticle entitled Why do we lose muscle strength with age?

He summarized recent research and explains that sarcopenia* is due to two major factors: muscle quality and neuromuscular innervation.

Because Dr. Attia understands that muscle mass and strength naturally decrease as humans age, and the loss of both muscle mass and muscle strength accelerates with more years on the planet, he advocates the importance of muscle strength as a determining factor for healthy longevity. He goes into some depth about the reasons here.

Dr. Yoshiaki Sato, the inventor of KAATSU, has also long understood these facts. But one of the reasons why the 73-year-old has dedicated his life to KAATSU is because he believes sarcopenia does not necessarily have to lead to such a dramatic decline in muscle mass and muscle strength. Both he and his lifelong users of KAATSU in Japan have proven this point.**

Dr. Sato uses both the KAATSU Cycle and the KAATSU Constant modes daily - and the results are apparent.

He uses the KAATSU Cycle mode in the Progressive setting - casually, periodically, and purposefully - throughout the day. Those points (casually, periodically, and purposefully) are critical to his long-term strategy and goals.

Casually refers to his use of the KAATSU Cycle mode while he is sitting or moving around in his office, either when he conducts or attends meetings or during his discussions with KAATSU Specialists or Instructors in Japan. "If I do not temporarily engorge the vascular tissue in my arms and legs throughout the day, I don't feel right. Because KAATSU is part of my lifestyle and I do it during the course of my day, it is a natural habitual act that is easy to do. I keep my KAATSU devices right next to where I work - or if I travel, I take the KAATSU C3 with me," he explains. "I have become accustomed to feeling 'piri piri' (slight tingling sensation in his fingertips when the capillaries of his hands because optimally engorged with blood."

Periodically refers to his daily use of the KAATSU Cycle mode during mornings, afternoons, and evenings. "Doing gentle KAATSU Cycle sets, either during or after sitting in meetings and throughout the day is critically important to maintain my maximum vascular elasticity and regular secretion of hormones. Additionally, my primary workout of the day is in the evening, after dinner and before bed, taking a bath, and doing a cold plunge. Because I do earlier KAATSU Cycle sessions during the day, then by the time I do my main workout at night, my vascular tissue is optimally prepared for a great workout."

Purposefully refers to his use of both the KAATSU Cycle and KAATSU Constant modes in the evening. He explains, "I work on all the various muscle groups - chest, shoulders, arms, legs - in a regular six-day cycle. For decades, I used to do a seven-day cycle - which is quite possible with KAATSU and either low resistance or no weights, but now in my 70's, I do my regular KAATSU workouts Monday through Saturday with some Sundays off. After every workout, I work on my core. I do my core work after I have taken off my KAATSU Air Bands because we know that the HGH secretion is maximized in that post-KAATSU 12-15minute period. So with the human growth hormone flowing, I like do core work."

In his recent article, Dr. Attia described the unavoidable change in the distribution of the type I slow twitch and type II fast twitch muscle fibers as we grow older. However, Dr. Sato understands the differences in muscle fibers, he does a wide variety of movements in addition to his standard 4-set KAATSU resistance exercises in his main evening workout. "With four sets of each exercise, I treat the first set as 'priming the pump'. I move fast in the first step, quickly pumping out reps. I do a lot of repetitions in this first set; it could be 50, 60 or as many as 70 reps. Then, with only 20 seconds rest, I start the second set where the number of reps falls significantly. Then, another 20-second rest - max - that means the number of reps in the third set significantly decreases again. I do another maximum of a 20-second rest, and then do the final set of four. By this time, the number of reps can be 1, 2, or 3 at most."

Steven Munatones has seen Dr. Sato workout and knows he works his entire range of muscle types in his workouts, "It is extremely impressive. He is obviously a very strong man, but he also sustains a very heart rate when he does exercises on the StairMaster for example. He really sprints, pumping his legs up and down almost unbelievably quickly. He also mixing in isometric movements of various sorts that are also very effective."

Dr. Sato does not waste time between each set - and he does not waste time between different exercises. He will only rest a maximum of 60 seconds. The results are enviable. Munatones explains, "Using the Masimo MightySat Finger Pulse Oximeter, I found Dr. Sato's resting heart rate to be low, as might be expected - and he takes no medication, but his nutrition is off the charts healthy. But what is most impressive to me are his oxygen saturation and respiratory rate. With the Masimo, Dr. Sato's SpO2 hovers between 99-100% and the number of breaths per minute that he normally takes always under 10, and usually at or under 8. With his cardiovascular system so finely tuned after five decades of KAATSU, his physiological data make sense. Since I first met him in 2001 until now, I have never seen him sick - and he talk or meet frequently, like 2-5 times per week."

In the article, Dr. Attia writes, "The more a muscle is used, the more neuromotor connections it develops, which leads to improved contractile strength."

This is a guess on the part of Munatones, "It is a safe assumption that Dr. Sato is 'working out' his cardiovascular, muscloskeletal, and lympathic systems at least 18 times per week. While it does not look like he is working out when he is sitting in a meeting doing KAATSU Cycle sets, his body and brain treat the engorgement and release of blood in his arm and leg vascular tissue are exercise at the cellular level. During this main workouts six days per week, he is either doing all-out, fast leg pumps on the StairMaster, isometric holds, 'priming the pump' with fast repetitions, and maxing out with his final set of 1 or 2 reps. He really mixes it up and uses his muscles in a vast number of ways.

Dr. Sato also works out mindfully. "I really think about each muscle when I work it out, I am focused and it helps," he explains. He also never cheats on his rest periods. He has a 20-second rest maximuz between sets and 60 seconds between different exercises. This KAATSU protocol is an outcome of his decades of self-experimentation and observation of innumerable KAATSU users in Japan.

He also taught me little things about maximizing the benefits of KAATSU - like drinking water with a high magnesium content in sips and not gulps, because the body can better absorb in smaller amounts throughout the day, instead of quelching a thirst with lots of water taken in a short time frame. He applies that same thought process to his meals. He always enjoys lots of variety, lots of color, and always seasonal foods: fermented and fresh, boiled and grilled depending on what it is."

Dr. Sato augments his KAATSU workouts with a nice, relaxing Japanese bath at the end of the evening, followed by 3 alternating hot-and-cold plunges. Even in his sauna, he has a specific method. "I do not sit upright in the sauna. I lie down flat so my entire body is equally affected by the same temperature."

As Dr. Attia advocates, "Keep exercising throughout life. It is unequivocally the very best weapon in our arsenal when it comes to fending off a deterioration in health and extending lifespan."

And that is what Dr. Sato has always done - and always encourages KAATSU users to do the same.

* Sarcopenia is defined as an age-related, involuntary loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. Beginning as early as the fourth decade of life, evidence suggests that skeletal muscle mass and skeletal muscle strength decline in a linear fashion, with up to 50% of mass being lost by the eighth decade of life.

** Dr. Sato proved that building muscle can be achieved...even at the advanced age of 104 years:



Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Travel Fatigue Mitigation

Recovery from jet lag or travel fatigue can be addressed with repeated Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets.

Doing Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets during long-distance, multiple time zone travel has significant advantages for athletes.

Use any KAATSU model (e.g., KAATSU C3, KAATSU B1) to do Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets, always starting at the lowest pressure, and then subsequently increasing in higher SKU pressures.

The recommended protocols for optimal benefits whether in airplanes, trains, private vehicles, or buses, include:
> Be well hydrated before and during KAATSU Cycle sets. Begin before boarding airplane or going to the airport.
> Start off in lowest SKU pressure setting - gradually and slowly increase the pressure.
> Sit or relax comfortably while doing KAATSU Cycle sets.
> Gently and repeatedly do simple exercises or movements; no need to do vigorous or intense movements.
> Enjoy the view, watch movies, read books or talk with friends and family while enjoying KAATSU.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - KAATSU History

Professor Sir Dr. Yoshiaki Sato, MD, PhD of Tokyo, Japan is the inventor of KAATSU and the pioneer of the emerging BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) market.

The history of KAATSU until 2010 is summarized in the above video that also explains how KAATSU can improve blood circulation, stimulate a significant hormonal response, and improve muscle tone.

These are some of the key historical dates regarding KAATSU development:

* 1996: The original KAATSU concept, principles, and modality were invented by Dr. Sato
* 1973: The KAATSU Cycle concept, principles, and modality were invented by Dr. Sato
* 1993: The first KAATSU patent application was filed by Dr. Sato
* 1995: KAATSU research at the University of Tokyo began in collaboration with Naokata Ishii, PhD
* 1997: The first KAATSU patent was issued in Japan
* 2000: The first KAATSU patent was issued in the United States
* 2000: The first scientific paper on KAATSU was published: Effects of resistance exercise combined with moderate vascular occlusion on muscular function in humans in the Journal of Applied Physiology 88: 2097-2016, 2000).
* 2001: KAATSU was first introduced outside of Japan (in Huntington Beach, California)
* 2004 - 2014: University of Tokyo Hospital, led by cardiologists Dr. Toshiaki Nakajima [shown below with Dr. Sato] and Dr. Toshihiro Morita, conducted research projects and a 10-year clinical study of over 12,000 individuals on KAATSU. The physicians studied, tested, researched and set the protocols at the 22nd Century Medical Center in the Department of Ischemic Circulatory Physiology, Kaatsu Training, University of Tokyo.
* 2014: KAATSU Global, Inc. was founded and set off to introduce KAATSU outside of Japan

THE MISSION

Precisely controlled, narrow, elastic, stretchable, easy-to-use KAATSU Air Bands automatically and safely optimize blood circulation to improve muscle tone, strength, mobility, rehabilitation, and recovery based on specific sequences of compression and decompression of the pneumatic bands.

THE KAATSU DIFFERENCE

The primary differences between KAATSU and other BFR bands (e.g., B Strong, Delfi Portable Tourniquet System for Blood Flow Restriction, Smart Cuffs, and other BFR brands and low-cost occlusion bands) are as follows:

(1) KAATSU utilizes the patented Cycle function
(2) different pressures can be simultaneously used on different limbs, including the option of doing Single-Limb KAATSU
(3) KAATSU equipment and protocols were proven safe and effective after a decade of clinical use and research on over 7,000 cardiac rehab patients at the University of Tokyo Hospital (between 2004 and 2014)
(4) KAATSU is used by cardiologists, orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, and physicians in various specialties as well as physical therapists, chiropractors, trainers and coaches
(5) KAATSU Air Bands do not occlude arterial flow
(6) KAATSU is meant to be gentle and convenient in order to do anywhere anytime
(7) KAATSU is used worldwide by people up to the age of 104
(8) more research has been conducted in more countries on KAATSU than any other BFR device
(9) the seminal, groundbreaking research on BFR was conducted and published by KAATSU inventor Dr. Yoshiaki Sato in the 1990's
(10) KAATSU Air Bands are waterproof and the KAATSU C3 is ruggedized for military applications

PATENT

The original patent on KAATSU bands and KAATSU training was submitted by Dr. Sato in November 1993: Patent No. 2670421 in Japan, Patent No. 6149618 in the USA, and 94206403.0 in the UK, Germany, France, and Italy. He concurrently manufactured and commercialized the first KAATSU Training bands.

The patent for Tightening tool for muscle training and muscle training method using same was granted by the US Patent & Trademark Office in November 2000 in the United States and other countries.

The original patent (read here) describes "a tightening tool including an elastic body in the form of a belt, rope, tube, etc. for forming a tightening loop adapted to surround a desired part of muscles and tighten it, and locking means for holding the tightening loop at a desired size. A muscle training method for accelerating enlargement and strengthening of the muscles can be practiced by the tightening tool to temporarily block the flow of blood to the desired part of the muscle."










































































































FIRST PUBLISHED PAPER

Dr. Yoshiaki Sato invented KAATSU in 1966, but it took him decades of further discovery and fine-tuning both the usage protocols and equipment before he met Professor Naokata Ishii of the University of Tokyo, a Japanese exercise physiologist.

Their work ultimately led to the first seminal paper on KAATSU called "Effects of resistance exercise combined with moderate vascular occlusion on muscular function in humans", published in the Journal of Applied Physiology in 2000.

The paper concluded, "Owning to its small mechanical stress and large effect in inducing muscular hypertrophy, the deliberate combinatino of low-intensity resistance exercise and moderate vascular occlusion is potentially useful for accelerating the recovery of muscular strength in patients and aged people."

The paper explained, "Among aged populations, weakening of muscles in the lower extremity gives rise to serious problems such as inability to stand up and lethal injuries associated with a fall. Postmenopausal older women are subjected to an additional risk of osteoporosis."

BFR versus KAATSU

The first peer-review paper published in the Journal of Applied Physiology is the origin of the term BFR.

Dr. Sato and Professor Ishii knew that their findings would be difficult for the journal editors to accept as is because the word "KAATSU" was unknown in the research and sports world outside of Japan. After discussions with the journal editors, KAATSU was described in the literature as vascular occlusion - even though Dr. Sato and Professor Ishii wanted to steer away from the word occlusion.

They knew that there is no arterial limb occlusion of the brachial artery and brachial veins even at high pressures with the pneumatic KAATSU Air Bands.

The ultrasound image on left shows the brachial artery and brachial veins at 300 SKU (mmHg) of a 21-year-old collegiate athlete, but vascular occlusion and, ultimately, BFR or Blood Flow Restriction stuck and was further discussed and defined in the scientific literature.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Using in a Hotel Room

Being away from home, at training camp, during the season, or in the playoffs, is a major part of a professional athlete.

KAATSU equipment can be used anywhere anytime - in a hotel, at the airport, in a bus, or on a train. KAATSU is useful to stay relaxed, and/or work on your strength, stamina, speed and fine motor skills while in a hotel room or other locations.

KAATSU users stayed pumped with KAATSU equipment while using everything from TRX straps hooked to their hotel door to water bottles substituting for dumbbells. You can do burpees, slow negative squats, isometric exercises, the classic KAATSU 3-Point Exercises [shown below], stretch, do shoulder rolls frontwards and backwards, and/or use resistance bands tied to a doorknob with your KAATSU Air Bands on your arms (utilizing the Progressive KAATSU Cycle mode) or while you have your KAATSU Air Bands on your legs while doing core work.

KAATSU Walking (or KAATSU Pacing in a hotel room) can provide the same effect as significantly longer (in duration and distance) runs or jogs. Place the KAATSU Air Bands on your legs and walk back and forth while stuck in your hotel room [see photo on left].

The KAATSU Air Bands on your upper legs will result in healthful systemic effects that are felt and seen throughout your body, including your core and upper body.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Increasing Vertical Leap

KAATSU is an ideal way to increase your vertical leap and explosive power.

KAATSU can be performed daily - even twice daily - to enable your body to catch a pass, block a field goal, pressure a quarterback, or evade a defender. Using the protocols below, explosiveness, acceleration, agility, and vertical leap can be improved.

VERTICAL LEAP PROTOCOLS

> Do 1-3 Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms, starting at low pressure and building up to high pressure. These warm-up sets can be performed while doing something else (e.g., drills, relaxing between plays, strength training).

> Do 3-6 Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on your legs, starting at low pressure and building up to high pressure. You can stretch, warm-up, walk, or begin jumping.

> Inflate to an optimal pressure and untether (remove) the KAATSU Air Bands from the KAATSU equipment. Start the KAATSU Constant mode, using a moderate to high pressure.

> Begin vertical leap drills with the KAATSU Air Bands in the KAATSU Constant mode.

> As you begin to tire and your vertical leap begins to decrease and your technique begins to deteriorate, remove the KAATSU Air Bands and rest, relax, and hydrate.

> Very importantly, the KAATSU vertical leap drill is not finished even if the KAATSU Air Bands from your legs are removed. A robust hormonal response (of HGH) continues for up to 15 minutes.

> After your rest, continue the vertical leap drills without the KAATSU Air Bands. Measure and compare to your lifetime best leaps.

> Continue this throughout the season.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Equipment

KAATSU pioneered the emerging BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) market. Its products are unique, patented, and unlike other BFR products.

Primarily, KAATSU begins at homeostasis and only gradually, slightly, and gently increases pressure in order to optimize the patented and repeated compression and decompression of the limbs. This is well established as the most effective and efficient means to increase vascular elasticity and stimulate a robust hormonal response. The effect of this modality is to temporarily, gradually, and gently modify the venous flow. The effects were first published in the Journal of Applied Physiology in 2000 and have been well studied since.

In contrast, BFR products begin at full occlusion. BFR products are based on the concept of LOP (Limb Occlusion Pressure). From that point of full occlusion, a certain percentage of pressure is released and the cuffs and tourniquets are deflated so the athlete can proceed with either rehabilitation or their workout.

Models

NFL trainers and players can use three different types of KAATSU equipment. Each have their own unique benefits and advantages:

* The KAATSU B1
* The KAATSU C3
* The KAATSU M3

Each model comes with the same type of KAATSU Air Bands. Each model uses the same protocols for athletic performance, rehabilitation, recovery, and general wellness.

KAATSU Air Bands

The KAATSU Air Bands come in four different sizes (small, medium, large, and extra large) for both the arms and legs. The bands are relatively narrow (compared to blood pressure cuffs), pneumatic, stretchable bands with a proprietary air bladder inside and are covered with neoprene. The bands are placed only around the upper arms or upper legs, no matter what part of the body is undergoing rehabilitation.

The KAATSU Air Bands are specifically described as bands - as opposed to cuffs or tourniquets. The KAATSU Air Bands have a uniquely shaped (oval) air bladder that inflates in one direction. The effect is only minimal compression of the veins of the arms and legs - and no impedence of the arterial flow.

In contrast, cuffs and tourniquets are specifically designed to occlude arterial flow and feel quite tight on the upper arms and legs.

KAATSU B1

The Bluetooth-enabled KAATSU B1 device is the latest model. The B1 operates via a smartphone and uses either an Android or iOS app.

The KAATSU B1 consists of two small KAATSU Wearable units for your arms and two KAATSU Wearable units for your legs.

KAATSU B1 app monitors the KAATSU Wearable units while capturing and archiving the usage data, and automatically inflates and deflates the band according to the KAATSU algorithms embedded in the Wearable chips. The apps are user-friendly and stores usage data in the cloud (i.e., KAATSU Performance database). The Wearable units are ultra-light, compact, and portable.

The app enables total customization of the Fixed, Progressive, and Regressive KAATSU Cycle modes. The app can customize the time under tension, time of decompression, and allow for different pressures to be applied to each limb simultaneously. This allows for optimal physiological gains.

The app and Wearable units power on, capture, monitor, and analyze all KAATSU usage data in the cloud.

The KAATSU B1, unlike other KAATSU equipment, does not require connector tubes. This allow players to have increased mobility to meet their performance, recovery, wellness, and rehabilitation needs. Similar to all KAATSU products, the B1 leads to an increase in vascular elasticity and generates additional metabolite nutrients, oxygen, and blood flow without occlusion of blood flow.

The B1 is versatile and can be safely utilized anywhere anytime - including in the rain, snow, mud, dust, and sand.

KAATSU protocols have been researched and tested by numerous universities, hospitals, cardiologists and scientists at the University of Tokyo Hospital, Jilin University, Osaka University, Harvard Medical School, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, and many others. Used in 49 countries, there have been millions of KAATSU sessions performed by elite athletes, special military forces, and people up to the age of 104 years.

KAATSU C3



KAATSU C3 is the third generation KAATSU Cycle device. It is the most widely used and most popular model.

The C3 is handheld, ultra-light, compact, and portable. It can be used anywhere - on the field, in the training facilities, in the gym, on the airplane, at home, or in the office.

Its portrait orientation enables it to be placed in a shirt or pants pocket during use.

The KAATSU Air Bands inflate and deflate in a patented sequence based on safe, optimal algorithms. The primary differences between KAATSU and the other BFR bands is:

> KAATSU utilizes the patented Cycle function (i.e., 30 seconds of inflation followed by 5 seconds of deflation with incrementally increasing pressure).
> Different pressures can be simultaneously used on different limbs - or the same pressure on both limbs.
> KAATSU equipment and protocols were proven safe and effective after a decade of clinical use and research on over 12,000 rehab patients at the University of Tokyo Hospital (between 2004 and 2014).
> KAATSU is used by cardiologists, orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, and physicians in various specialties.
> KAATSU Air Bands do not occlude or impede arterial flow.
> KAATSU is gentle and convenient in order to do anywhere anytime. No use of Limb Occlusion Pressure because there is no arterial occlusion even at the highest possible pressure.
> KAATSU is sold in 49 countries (to date) for use by people up to the age of 104.
> More research has been conducted in more countries on KAATSU than any other BFR device.
> the seminal, groundbreaking research on BFR was conducted in the mid- to late 1990's and published by KAATSU inventor Dr. Yoshiaki Sato in 2000.
> KAATSU Air Bands are made of neoprene and are waterproof.

KAATSU M3



The KAATSU M3 is the third generation KAATSU Master model. It includes the most functionality of all the KAATSU equipment and is used in hospitals, clinics, and research institutes.

Its display shows the user's pulse rate, perfusion index, and Pleth variability index in real time while the KAATSU Air Bands are on the player's arms or legs. All usage data is stored in the cloud (at the KAATSU Performance database).

Patents
Based on the original KAATSU know-how and US patent #9,775,619 (Compression and decompression control system and vascular strengthening method), KAATSU products are protected by dozens of patents.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Pre- and Post-tattoo Applications

Tattoo on arm after 3½ hours.





























Tattoo on arm after 5 hours.

Many players sport tattoos on their body, visible and not when they wear their team uniforms.

KAATSU Cycle sets, when properly applied, has always been good for pre-surgery preparations and post-surgery recovery, especially with sutures on the skin [see here and below].

The KAATSU tattoo protocol is nicknamed the 'Carlson Protocol' after a heavily tattooed water polo coach. He first tested and now regularly uses KAATSU Cycle sets to minimize the inflammation and pain after inking a sleeve.

Like Carlson, many players have several tattoos and they understand very well the inflammation and pain that comes with getting a new tattoo.

Carlson Protocol

> Do 3 Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on your arms followed by 4 progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on your legs before going to the tattoo parlor - or while at the tattoo parlor. Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets means you start with a set in the Low pressure setting, then progress to Medium and High pressure settings.

> Do 3 Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets (Low, Medium, High) after the inking session is over.

> An effective option is to do a light, moderate or heavy workout with KAATSU Air Bands in the KAATSU Cycle Low pressure setting using the limbs that were inked.

>> Players can do simple KAATSU 3-Point Exercises on their arms (i.e., Hand Clenches + Biceps Curls + Triceps Extensions) or on their legs (i.e., Standing Heel Raises + Quarter Squats + KAATSU Walking) as a light workout.
>> Players can use resistance bands using the KAATSU Cycle or KAATSU Constant mode for a moderate workout.
>> Players can lift light or moderate weights or run for a heavy workout.
>> All workouts should be completed using the KAATSU Cycle sets on Low; the frequent compression and decompression of the bands is important for engorgement in the limbs and the KAATSU effects to be experienced.

> Take off the bandages 1½+ hours after the new tattoo, wash with soap and water, and applied skin ointment.

Dave Carlson explained the phenomena, "There will be very little or no swelling. The skin - unlike getting tattoos without using KAATSU - will not be sensitive to the touch, and the skin under and near the tattoo is not swollen or inflamed. The area around the tattoo normally rises for a few days after I get it. But with the KAATSU Cycle protocol, there will be minimal swelling and little pain after removing the bandages.

In many cases, there will be no swelling. The puffiness and redness does not appear, without any inflammation or pain."

The photo on left was taken 6½ hours after the tattoo session. Carlson's arm is engorged in blood in the middle of the fourth KAATSU Cycle set. His first KAATSU Cycle set was done at the Low pressure setting; the second KAATSU Cycle set was done at the Medium level, and the third KAATSU Cycle set was done at High level. A fourth KAATSU Cycle set can be done at the maximum SKU, if desired.

KAATSU leads to a decrease in CRP, C-reactive protein which is a blood test marker for inflammation in the body. CRP levels increase in response to inflammation; this does not occur with use of the KAATSU Cycle mode. KAATSU also is the catalyst for production of EPC (endothelial progenitor cell) that help. EPC are cells that help regenerate the endothelial lining of your blood vessels.

Repeated KAATSU Cycle sets enhance the body's natural healing process, especially when the skin is cut, torn, broken or inked.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Key Points

KAATSU is an ideal way to build bulk, increase strength, improve stamina, and mitigate jet lag if KAATSU is correctly performed.

The short-term and long-term benefits of KAATSU will be apparent as long as the athletes adhere to standard KAATSU protocols.

KEY POINTS
* Always be well hydrated before and during KAATSU.
* KAATSU for muscle hypertrophy can be performed daily.
* Put on your KAATSU Bands snugly with "one-finger tightness"; that is, you should be able to place only one finger between the bands and your limbs. If you can put two or three fingers between your limbs and the bands, the bands are too loose.
* First start KAATSU on your arms and then do KAATSU on your legs.
* In the KAATSU Cycle mode, always start with your set on the lowest pressure.
* The color in your hands and arms should always be darker than your normal color (perhaps either a rosy pink or, perhaps, even a beefy red). This is a sign of blood engorgement in the limbs.
* You can check for proper blood engorgement by confirming your capillary refill is less than 3 seconds on either the palm of your hands or on your quadriceps by firmly pressing your thumb into your palm or quadriceps.
* Your veins may become distended (i.e., pop out). This is normal and expected.
* You may feel a slight tingling in your fingers or toes during KAATSU, this is normal and expected when your extremities are fully engorged in blood.
* You will be able to gradually tolerate increasingly higher pressures as you continue doing KAATSU over time.
* One set in the KAATSU Cycle mode consists of 8 cycles of 30 seconds pressure on followed by 5 seconds of pressure off. In each cycle, the pressure is very slightly increased by 10 SKU.
* In the KAATSU Constant mode, the connector tubes are disconnected and the pressure stays constant.

POINTS OF CAUTION
* Never use heavy weights; it is unnecessary and counter-productive with KAATSU.
* Never simultaneously put on or use the KAATSU Air Bands on both your arms and legs.
* In the KAATSU Constant mode, do not exceed 10 minutes with the bands on your arms or legs.
* You should never feel lightheaded, or have any numbness or occlusion in your limbs.
* Immediately release and remove KAATSU Air Bands if you feel any numbness or lightheadedness, or your skin color becomes pale or whiter than normal. Lie down with your legs elevated if necessary.
* If you have a medical condition, follow the advice of your physician before starting KAATSU.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Building Strength

KAATSU is an ideal way to increase strength.

KAATSU can be performed daily - even twice daily - with demonstrable results achieved in short periods of time if KAATSU protocols are strictly followed.

Athletes can use their body weight or use light resistance or weights when doing KAATSU for increasing strength.

It is ideal to work on smaller muscle groups first, and then move onto the larger muscle groups (i.e., forearms before triceps, calves before quadriceps).

BODYWEIGHT EXERCISES
› Warm-up and warm-down in the KAATSU Cycle mode.
› Exercise in the KAATSU Constant mode. You can release the bands if the time exceeds 10 minutes. Rest, hydrate, and restart.
› KAATSU can be added to or used at the end of a workout as a finisher.
› You can move your limbs slowly when in both the eccentric and concentric directions - or train at a normal cadence.
› Rest no more than 20 seconds between each set.
› Rest no more than 60 seconds between each type of exercise (i.e., when shifting from sets of biceps curls to sets of triceps extensions, rest no more than 1 minute).
› Do 3-4 sets of each exercise. You should only be able to do a decreasing number of repetitions on each set.
» Set #1 is 'priming the pump': Do repetitions to near exhaustion. This can be up to 60 reps. Rest no more than 20 seconds.
» Set #2 is 'going to failure': Do repetitions to muscle failure. The number of repetitions to failure should be fewer than the number of repetitions in set #1. Rest no more than 20 seconds.
» Set #3 is 'going to the max': Do repetitions to muscle failure. The number of repetitions to failure should be fewer than the number of repetitions in set #2. Rest no more than 20 seconds.
» Set #4 is 'going beyond': Do 1-3 repetitions until muscle failure. Rest no more than 60 seconds and move onto a different exercise.

EXAMPLE
› After a series of Hand Clenches, Biceps Curls, and Triceps Extensions in the KAATSU Cycle mode to warm-up, starting with low pressure and then gradually increasing to medium and high pressure.
› In the KAATSU Constant mode, untether (disconnect) the connector tubes from the KAATSU Air Bands.
› Do bodyweight exercises (e.g., push-ups or dips or with TRX Straps) or do a series of isometric pushing and pulling exercises.
› Failure should come within 5–10 minutes.
› Go to muscular failure (full fatigue) with each set of exercises.
› For example, do 4 sets of push-ups in the following manner:
» Set #1: Do slow push-ups (3-second count going down and 3-second count going up) until failure. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #2: Do slow push-ups until failure. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #3: Do slow push-ups until failure. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #4: Do slow push-ups until failure. Move onto next exercise.

KAATSU WEIGHT TRAINING
› Use extraordinary light weights (i.e., 5-10 lbs. or less), exercise equipment or resistance bands to do any kind of exercise.
› Do 3-4 sets in the KAATSU Constant mode as explained above.
› Use KAATSU equipment in the course of your workout - or as a finisher at the end of each workout.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Building Bulk

KAATSU is an ideal way to build bulk and experience muscle hypertrophy in short periods of time, and even while injured and as we get older.

KAATSU can be performed daily - even twice daily - and is efficient because muscle fibers are not torn if KAATSU is correctly performed.

KAATSU users can use their body weight, do isometric exercises, or use light resistance or weights slowly moving their limbs while contracting their muscles for optimally building bulk.

It is ideal for athletes to work on smaller muscle groups first, and then move onto their larger muscle groups (i.e., forearms before triceps, calves before quadriceps).

Key Points While Doing Bodyweight or Isometric Exercises
› Warm-up and warm-down in either the KAATSU Cycle or KAATSU Progressive Cycle mode.
› Finish off with exercises in the KAATSU Constant mode. Release the bands if the time exceeds 10 minutes.
› Move your limbs slowly - very slowly - when moving in both the eccentric and concentric directions.
› Contract your muscles in the moving limbs in both the eccentric and concentric directions.
› Rest no more than 20 seconds between each set.
› Rest no more than 60 seconds between each type of exercise (i.e., when shifting from sets of biceps curls to sets of triceps extensions, rest no more than 1 minute).
› Do 3-4 sets of each exercise. You should only be able to do a decreasing number of repetitions on each set.
» Set #1 is 'priming the pump': Do repetitions to near exhaustion. This can be up to 60 reps. Rest no more than 20 seconds.
» Set #2 is 'going to failure': Do repetitions to muscle failure. The number of repetitions to failure should be fewer than the number of repetitions in set #1. Rest no more than 20 seconds.
» Set #3 is 'going to the max': Do repetitions to muscle failure. The number of repetitions to failure should be fewer than the number of repetitions in set #2. Rest no more than 20 seconds.
» Set #4 is 'going beyond': Do 1-3 repetitions until muscle failure. Rest no more than 60 seconds and move onto a different exercise.

Examples
› After a series of Hand Clenches, Biceps Curls, and Triceps Extensions in the KAATSU Cycle mode to warm-up, starting with low pressure and then gradually increasing to medium and high pressure.
› In the KAATSU Constant mode, untether (disconnect) the connector tubes from the KAATSU Air Bands.
› Do bodyweight exercises (e.g., push-ups or dips or exercises with TRX Straps) or do a series of isometric pushing and pulling exercises.
› Failure should come within 5–10 minutes.
› Go to muscular failure (i.e., going to full fatigue) or technical failure (i.e., resorting to improper form) with each set of exercises.
› For example, do 4 sets of push-ups in the following manner:
» Set #1: Do slow push-ups (3-second count going down and 3-second count going up) until failure. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #2: Do slow push-ups until failure. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #3: Do slow push-ups until failure. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #4: Do slow push-ups until failure. Move onto next exercise.

Key Points While Doing KAATSU Weight Training
› Use extraordinary light weights (i.e., 5-10 lbs. or less), exercise equipment, or resistance bands doing any kind of exercise.
› Do a series of Hand Clenches, Biceps Curls, and Triceps Extensions under low pressure in the KAATSU Cycle mode to warm-up.
› Then do 4 sets in the KAATSU Constant mode in following manner:
» Set #1: Do repetitions to near exhaustion. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #2: Do repetitions to muscle failure. The reps should be fewer than the reps in set #1. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #3: Do repetitions to muscle failure. The reps should be fewer than the reps in set #2. Rest 20 seconds max.
» Set #4: Do 1-3 repetitions until failure. Move onto next exercise.

Expected Post-Workout Sensations
› You will feel very pumped up after each KAATSU session.
› You may feel post-workout fatigue if the sessions are extraordinarily intense, but if heavy weights are not used, muscle soreness should be minimal or non-existent.

Core Work

› If you want to work on your core after your workout is over, place your KAATSU Air Bands on your legs, begin the KAATSU Cycle mode, and then do one or more of these exercises at you experience a robust post-workout secretion of HGH: 

› › (1) place a book on your head and casually walk around with your shoulders back, or 

› › (2) balance on one leg until failure, then switch to the other leg, or 

› › (3) sit up straight with your shoulders back and straight spine, repeatedly contracting your abdominals. 

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

From A Soldier To A Swimmer, The Marathon Swim Story of John Doolittle

While many, if not most, people know John Doolittle as a 25-year military veteran, a retired Navy SEAL captain, and an Air Force Academy graduate where he was a talented breaststroker, he has another side to his multi-faceted career: that of a channel swimmer.

Shannon House interviewed Doolittle, the Chief Revenue Officer of KAATSU Global, for her podcast, Marathon Swim Stories. Doolittle tells House about the establishment of Tampa Bay Frogman Swim, annually raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the NAVY SEAL Foundation, and what led him to swim 33.5 kilometers across a rough English Channel as a tribute to Neil Roberts.

Listen here to the Marathon Swim Story of John Doolittle

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

The Times, Talents and Travels of Chris Morgan

KAATSU Global's Chief Performance Officer Chris Morgan is a man of many talents - and an abundance of energy.

Morgan organizes events (Beverly Shark Swim and the Clean Harbor Swim in Gloucester, Massachusetts as well as coaches competitive age-group swimmers and open water swimmers. Many of his teenage swimmers have gone on to compete at the NCAA Division I level (e.g., University of Michigan, University of Georgia, Stanford University, Harvard University, Yale University, and Brown University). The California native, prior to relocating to Danvers, Massachusetts, coached 14 years in Switzerland where he coached one of his swimmers to qualify first in the men's 200m freestyle ahead of Michael Phelps at the FINA World Swimming Championships and three other athletes to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Morgan recalls one of his more interesting experiences coaching at the highest levels, "One of my swimmers always loved to eat a PowerBar before his races. But at the 2009 FINA World Swimming Championships in Rome, he couldn't find a PowerBar. He started to panic before his race and I knew that I had to do something for him. I just so happened to be standing next to Bob Bowman [the renowned coach of Michael Phelps]. I asked him if he had a PowerBar. He surreptitiously grabbed one for me and gave it to me - and my swimmer was beyond relieved. Well, he went on to qualify first in the semifinals - ahead of Michael [although Michael later won the championship final]. When I next saw Bob, he said to me - half jokingly and half not so jokingly - 'that is the last time that I give you a PowerBar'".

Most recently, Morgan escorted Steven Munatones on a kayak at the famed 66 km SCAR Swim in Arizona. It was the first time that he had kayaked for a marathon swim. Munatones recalled, "Chris did a great job throughout the competition, escorting me for over 16 hours total, from point to point across the four lakes of SCAR. It wasn't easy for anyone, especially the kayakers, in the stiff wind. This event is one of the world's great extreme marathon swimming competitions.

But what was even more impressive was that Chris was always on call, driving from lake to lake, helping pilot the pontoon boats, unloading the kayaks, and then going immediately - only after a few hours sleep - to the Milken Global Conference in Beverly Hills [California] where he stood on his feet for four straight days, exhibiting and explaining KAATSU to the attendees who pay the US$25,000 (per person) for the conference. But he also teaches KAATSU to people in their70's and 80's at Boston University and elsewhere.

Then Chris went from there to Stanford University, University of California Berkeley, and the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Medical School where he presented KAATSU, KAATSU Aqua, and KAATSU Therapy to coaches, athletes, physicians, and physical therapists.

He has also traveled to teach KAATSU around the United States to Olympic medalists in track (100m, 200m, 400m, 400m and 1600m relays) and swimming (50m, 100m freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly, 400m relays) as well to NBA (National Basketball Association) and NHL (National Hockey League) teams and Major League Baseball players. He has also exhibited and taught KAATSU at Biohacking Conferences and military conferences that focus on human performance issues - as well to Hollywood action stars and professional tennis players.

From there, he travels to the UK where he makes a formal presentation at the annual British Association of Sport & Exercise Medicine Conference in Brighton - and then he heads off to London to exhibit and explain KAATSU and KAATSU Aqua at the Health Optimisation Summit as the Chief Performance Officer of KAATSU Global.

Chris has always been non-stop. He has so much energy - and he walks the walk with KAATSU - for himself and his athletes. He has rehabbed himself from broken ribs and a cracked heel bone - and he was KAATSU Cycling throughout the SCAR Swim which helped him keep him on his game.

During the COVID lockdowns and quarantines, he kept on teaching and coaching from conceiving of and explaining the concept of the 9 Hands of Swimming, and organizing and teaching creative backyard pool swimming sets for sprinters, middle distance, and distance swimmers. He also coached KAATSU Aqua workouts in Endless Pools, via Zoom, and other virtual settings.

Chris has always been non-stop. During the COVID lockdowns and quarantines, he kept on teaching and coaching - from conceiving of and explaining the concept of the 9 Hands of Swimming, and organizing and teaching tough backyard pool swimming sets for sprinters, middle distance, and distance swimmers and doing KAATSU Aqua workouts via Zoom and other virtual settings.

Morgan was invited to present KAATSU and KAATSU Aqua at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, but the pandemic restrictions prevented him from exhibiting KAATSU at the IOC Hospitality Center as planned. However, prior to and during the Olympics, he was consulting with athletes on both the USA Olympic Track & Field Team and the USA Olympic Swimming Team including several gold, silver, and bronze medalists. Not one to miss an opportunity to teach and coach, he did the same with athletes at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games and during the Major League Baseball season.

My head spins with his network within the NBA (National Basketball Association), Hollywood stars, and women's professional tennis (including Venus Williams). He is constantly on the move."

For more information about Morgan and his colleagues at KAATSU Global, visit here.

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

Leslie Kenny: Hacking the Hallmarks of Aging with Autophagy

Leslie Kenny will present 'Hacking the Hallmarks of Aging with Autophagy' at the Biohacker Summit 2022 in Helsinki on June 3rd.

Kenny is a KAATSU Specialist with degrees from the University of California Berkeley and Harvard Business School, and the Founder and CEO of Oxford Healthspan and Co-Founder of the non-profit Oxford Longevity Project.

Kenny is an autoimmune survivor/thriver who will explain how she is bringing to consumers the latest scientifically-based molecules proven to slow the aging process. She is also the Co-Founder of the non-profit Oxford Longevity Project which aims to bring the latest scientific breakthroughs on healthy aging to the general public.

At Oxford University, she learned about a natural compound called spermidine that is found in natto, a traditional Japanese food that she had grown up with. Spermidine was showing great promise supporting health as we age. The science was compelling - one scientist even called it 'an anti-aging vitamin' in a published scientific journal. She knew spermidine was safe, natural, and food-derived - and no one was interested in promoting it.

Her entrepreneurial bug took over and Primeadine® - a concentrated wheat germ extract containing 1 mg of supplemental, exogenous spermidine - is part of a growing number of people's anti-aging program. For more information on Primeadine®, visit here.



For more information on Kenny, visit here.

Copyright © 2014 - 2021 by KAATSU Global

NFL Trainers KAATSU Playbook - Introduction

22 states across the United States are homes to the 32 NFL teams, but the game of football is a great unifier everywhere in America among fans and the wider communities. There is a deeply profound and powerful bond that ties Americans to the sport and its players.

The NFL is a hugely profitable business where the health, strength, speed and resilience of its players can make or break a team and its fortunes, both financially and emotionally. Injuries - both minor and major - hit every player in the league. A quick - or slow - recovery from injuries can change game plans and have a definitive impact on the outcome of games.

Versality - Convenience - Efficacy

There is no other equipment that is as versatile, effective, portable, convenient and efficient as KAATSU equipment for professional football players. Not only can players at every position maintain and improve their speed, strength, stamina, and agility with KAATSU equipment, but they can also rehabilitate and recover more quickly from any musculoskeletal injury with KAATSU.

This KAATSU Playbook is a guide for NFL trainers to use and consider when dealing with their players.

Speed
The KAATSU C3 and KAATSU B1 can be used in different ways to develop speed. The ideal KAATSU speed workout begins with the KAATSU Cycle mode and then continues in the KAATSU Constant mode with bursts of speed - either sprints or agility drills.

Strength
The ideal KAATSU strength workout is similar to the KAATSU speed workout: it begins with the KAATSU Cycle mode and then continues in the KAATSU Constant mode - and can be used with any type of bodyweight exercises or with light weights.

For strength gains, the repetitions can be a combination of slow repetitions with contractions and normal-speed repetitions, all using relatively light weights or resistance bands.

For muscle girth gains, very slow repetitions both in the positive and negative directions under high SKU pressure is optimal.

Stamina
The ideal KAATSU stamina workout also begins with the KAATSU Cycle mode and then continues in the KAATSU Constant mode. The Cycle-Constant repetition can be used with any type of aerobic work including running, using rowing machines, spinning bikes or treadmills, shuttle runs, or doing burpees or quick bodyweight exercises.

In the KAATSU Constant mode, care must be taken because intense aerobic work will result in a skyrocketing pulse. The elevated heart rate in the KAATSU Constant mode should only be performed under the watchful eye of coaches or trainers.

Agility
Agility with the feet and body, or throwing motion for quarterbacks, or leg strength and mobility for punters and kickers are all enhanced with a combination of the KAATSU Cycle mode and the KAATSU Training mode.

Rehabilitation
Effective rehabilitation and recovery are the signature benefit of the KAATSU Cycle mode, provided the player does KAATSU Cycle sets at least 3 times per day (e.g., morning, afternoon, and evening). This is recommended if the player is facing recovery from a muscle tear, a bone break, or any kind of ligament or tendon injury.

Recovery
In order to avoid or minimize DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) in the preseason or any time during the season or playoffs, 3-6 Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets are the most effective means to remove lactate from a vigorous workout or intense game - and can be used in combination with other modalities preferred by the players.

Insomnia and Jetlag
KAATSU equipment and protocols can also be used to minimize insomnia and jetlag if used approximately an hour before bedtime in a gentle manner.

Versatility & Augmentation
The KAATSU equipment can effectively augment any kind of fitness equipment the athlete may use: AlterG machines, rowing machines, spin bikes, barbells, dumbbells, resistance bands, TRX suspension straps, jump ropes, pools (either for aqua therapy or exercise), StairMasters, power racks, pull-up bars, dyno disks, physioballs, foam rollers, agility ladders, kettlebells, etc.

Or the KAATSU equipment can literally be used solely by itself with bodyweight exercises.

The KAATSU equipment can effectively augment any kind of movement the athletes may do: running, bodyweight exercises, blocking, stretching, rehabilitation exercises, running pass routes, throwing, kicking, etc.

KAATSU Social Media

* https://www.instagram.com/kaatsuglobal/
* https://www.facebook.com/kaatsu/
* https://twitter.com/KAATSUGlobal
* https://twitter.com/originalbfr
* https://www.kaatsublog.com/

Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global

Taking KAATSU To The Extreme

How can KAATSU be used by extreme sports athletes?

Three ways: for improvement of athletic performance, for recovery, and for rehabilitation. We explain below:

Background:

Extreme sports includes ultramarathon events (e.g., Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, Marathon des Sables, and Barkley Marathons), cycling (Tour de France and Race Across America), skiing (Arctic Circle Race), dog sledding (Iditarod), and triathlons (Norseman Triathlon and Hawaii Ironman).

Extreme athletes love testing, pushing, and extending their physiological and psychological limits of what is possible. The events are logistically unique that are largely conducted under extreme conditions that challenge the athletes over long periods of time.

The events are held in lava fields, deserts, mountains, roadways, and fjords. When judging the difficulty of the extreme events, athletes have different opinions and perspectives. For example, Alex Honnold, the renowned mountain climber of Free Solo fame, says "I think open water swimming sounds fucking heinous! And in some ways dangerous, because you could frickin’ drown."

Stephanie "Steph" Davis, a famed American rock climber, BASE jumper, and wingsuit flyer, echoed Honnold's opinion about extreme sports in the water, "I would not be enthusiastic if I had to do open water swimming, because I’m not a very big fan of the ocean. If I had to do one of these sports tomorrow, I would probably be most upset about swimming."

While skiing, running, cycling, and mountaineering have been around for many decades, extreme swimming events are gradually becoming increasingly popular. Swimming for long distances in rough water is attracting the same sort of personalities as do extreme sports cousins on dryland: tough, hardened, focused and committed people who love adventure and do not fear failure.

Open Water Swimming:

Among the longest and toughest swims, races include 8 Bridges in New York, the Maratón Acuática Internacional Santa Fe - Coronda in Argentina, Traversée internationale du lac St-Jean in Canada, and the SCAR Swim in Arizona.

SCAR Swim:

The SCAR Swim is a 4-day stage swim across 4 lakes in the Sonoran Desert. Touted as a 66 km in distance, the swim is twice as far as the English Channel (33.5 km), the Catalina Channel (32.3 km), and any of the channels of the Oceans Seven.

Distance is not the only challenge inherent in the SCAR Swim. Swimmers also face swimming rattlesnakes, cold water (between 12-14°C or 52-56°F at the start), countercurrents (when the water is released into or from the dams, the swimmers have to swim against back siphonage and the oncoming water flows), and heavy surface chop when the winds come up in the desert and blow through the narrow canyon walls of the reservoirs. Then, there is getting from the swims on the next subsequent days. Swimmers are constantly on the move, either preparing for, competing in, recovering from, or moving to the next swim. It is quite a logistical adventure where every day and every swim brings new conditions and challenges on a new course.

The swimmers entered in the 2022 SCAR Swim included experienced channel swimmers, noted marathon swimmers, swimmers who have pioneered numerous swims in different venues around the world, and Ice Milers (i.e., people who have swum at least 1 mile in water that is colder than 5°C). Aquatic street cred must be demonstrated before entry into the SCAR Swim is accepted.

Envisioned by Kent Nicholas in 2012, SCAR is an acronym that stands for Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and Roosevelt Lake. Nicholas created the event to prepare for his own Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming attempt. This Triple Crown requires swimmers to complete the 20 Bridges swim around Manhattan Island in New York City, a solo crossing of the English Channel between England and France, and a solo crossing of the Catalina Channel in Southern California.

Utilization of KAATSU for SCAR

59-year-old Steven Munatones wanted to optimally utilize KAATSU in his preparations for the 2022 SCAR Swim. He explains below how he used KAATSU for athletic performance, recovery, and rehabilitation.

Athletic Performance - Dryland Training

"I had not competed in an athletic contest you have since 1994, over 22 years ago. Although I was not too overweight or weak from a sedentary lifestyle, I had a long way to go to be able to complete - let along compete in - the SCAR Swim.

So for athletic performance, I used KAATSU as a means to gain strength and stamina. I did at least an hour of KAATSU Cycle sets while I was working at my desk, writing emails, and on conference calls. I used KAATSU about 80% of the time on my arms, and the remaining 20% of the time on my legs. Doing KAATSU Cycle sets repeatedly using Low, Medium, and then High SKU Pressures. I was always starting on Low Pressure and always ending on High Pressure

I walked every day, an average of 10,086 steps, in addition to the swimming that I did in the pool or in the Pacific Ocean. I did a small percentage of these walks with my KAATSU Air Bands on, either on my arms or legs. I never walked fast or jogged. It was always a casual walk, but if I walk with the bands on my arms, I do repeated tricep extensions.

I stretched, but I did not do any resistance training, weight training, pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, or any kind of HIIT Training other than aerobic sets in the pool where I usually hit 185-190 heart beats per minute when I was swimming fast.

The goal of repeatedly doing the KAATSU Cycle sets is to increase the elasticity of the vascular tissue throughout my body. It definitely worked because I was gradually able improve the pace and increase the distance of my swimming in the water."

Athletic Performance - Pool Training

"I had to prepare my body to swim non-stop over 60 km in 6 months. I started out slowly, even though I wanted to be competitive in the race. But simply finishing was my real goal. So I gradually - very gradually - built up from 2,000 yards per day to a maximum of 14,400 meters in one pool workout. Day by day, I slightly increased my time in the water while trying to swim faster. I increased everything very gradually - while religiously doing KAATSU Cycles daily - so I would not experience any overuse injuries.

My ultimate goal - although I did not know it was attainable in the beginning - was to increase my sustained pace to the same pace that Penny Dean - the Catalina Channel and English Channel record holder - did when she was at her peak, or swimming for 7 hours at a 1:20 pace per 100 meters. I was able to do that towards the end of my 6-month training period, but only up to 3 hours at a time. That was OK with me.

By increasing the elasticity of the vascular tissue - especially the microcapillaries throughout the body with KAATSU - I was able to deliver oxygen-rich blood to my working muscles and remove metabolic waste very efficiently. This was not a quick process - it took 6 months of focused training where I saw my sustained pace drop from 1:30+ per 100 meters to a peak of 1:18 per 100 meters towards the end."

Athletic Performance - Ocean Training

"In the ocean, I swam throughout the winter from November right through April when SCAR was held. I swam every day except for days in which the ocean was too dirty due to urban runoff or population (swimming 28-29 days per month). I swam mostly in Huntington Beach, but I also swam in other beaches throughout Southern California including Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Cabrillo Beach, and Zuma Beach. I made sure to swim either through or right outside the surf zone because I wanted to swim in as rough water as possible.

Some days, the waves had 2+ meter faces and it took me over 12 minutes swimming straight out from shore to get through the waves. Other days, I would swim in place or even backwards when there were strong coastal currents going against me. I never shied away from the waves or rough water because I knew it would help me on the windy SCAR lakes. But the stress on my shoulders was significant so the KAATSU Cycle recovery sets after I got out of the water helped me prepare for the next workout."

Athletic Performance - Cold Water Acclimatization

"Unlike swimmers from Ireland, Switzerland, Boston, and San Francisco, the water temperature remained bearable during the Southern Californian winter, ranging from a low of 54°F (13°C) in Cabrillo Beach to a high of 59°F (15°C) in Huntington Beach. For me, this was not easy. It took some acclimatization to deal with the cool water, especially when the wind was blowing or there was a layer of marine fog. The cold really zapped me. I was most fatigued in the cold. I would take a warm shower, put on warm clothes, do one short KAATSU Cycle set, and then take a nap. I needed the shower-KAATSU-nap to recover."

Athletic Performance - Hydration

"One of the crazier acclimatization training methods that I did was to purposefully train dehydrated. Even in my long workouts over 3 hours, I would not stop to hydrate or eat. I would just pound out the mileage. In the beginning, I would get cramps in my calves and feet, but I learned to deal with the discomfort. I wanted to experience this kind of discomfort in training, so it would not be problematic in the actual SCAR Swim.

But if I did not do KAATSU Cycle sets after these workouts, which I tried once, I would feel that soreness from the cramps all day long. It was not debilitating, but it was definitely discomfortable all day. So I only did that experiment once. So even if I had a cramp during the dehydrated sessions, I knew the residual effects of the cramp would go away with KAATSU Cycle sets once I was finished and doing it on dryland."

However, before these long walks and ocean swims, I did hydrate with Quinton Hypertonic water (Quinton Isotonic® Marine Plasma), a raw marine solution (pure seawater) that was created by René Quinton in 1887. The seawater is sourced from the depths of protected, plankton-rich ocean blooms off the coast of France and cold-sterilized to retain its healing properties - and eliminated the cramps that would normally come with training intensely in a dehydrated state.

Athletic Performance - Feeding

"KAATSU had nothing to do with this acclimatization training method, but I did purposefully eat unusually and heavy foods before a handful of workouts. Sweet potato pies, sausages, bacon, potato chips, oranges, a glass of milk, and all kinds of different combinations of food that I would definitely not eat before any race or workout. But I wanted to upset my stomach and learn how to deal with stomach pain. Fortunately, I was able to handle any kind of food and swim normally. So that experiment worked, I guess.

During the actual SCAR Swim, I only bonked once, but I think that was because my kayaker and I had a fast food dinner at a local Circle K gas station between Day Two and Day Three - and no breakfast before the swim on Day Three. Getting from Canyon Lake on Day Two to Apache Lake on Day Three took a long time, including an hour-long drive on a dirt road, in parts of the country where there are few eating options, so we learned our lesson. Four hours into the Day Three swim, I just ran out of gas - I had nothing left in my tank. I had to do 30 strokes of breaststroke to regain my thoughts and my kayaker Chris gave me 4 Starburst candies and my go-to peanut butter-and-Nutella sandwich. After slowing down for 10 minutes, I regained my thoughts and pace - and the swim went back to normal.

Lesson learned: no pre-race dinners of gas station fast food."

Rehabilitation - KAATSU Prevention

"I had no time for overuse injuries. I had to stay injury free because I only had 6 months to prepare. So I did 20-30 minutes of KAATSU Cycle sets before each swimming session. This prepared my vascular tissue in both my arms and legs - and core - to undergo sustained efforts that ranged between 90 minutes to over 3 hours of constant swimming.

Fortunately, I got stronger, more lean, lost weight, and even though I was fatigued after the workouts, I never got injured."

Recovery

"It was specifically after the workouts where KAATSU Cycle sets really proved their value. My shoulders, triceps, lats, and quadriceps were toast after each workout. I tried to push myself to the limit every day in the water. I had to get rid of the metabolic waste that my body generated - as soon as possible after each workout.

I would do 20-30 minutes of KAATSU Cycle sets on my arms right after a workout and another 30 minute session sometime later in the early to late evening. These would all be done on my arms. I would throw in an extra 20-minute leg session if I felt especially fatigued. Chris would do the same with his KAATSU C3 unit. As much as I swam, Chris kayaked and more against oncoming winds that made it very hard for him and all the other escort kayakers.

I almost exclusively performed KAATSU Cycle sets while sitting in the office, writing emails, or on Zoom meetings or conference calls. I didn’t take time to go to a gym or stop what I was normally doing in the course of my workday. In other words, KAATSU was totally integrated into my daily activities. It would sit next to my laptop on my desk or be in my pocket."

Sleep Deprivation & Hardship

"Sleep is always a key feature of a healthy lifestyle and is vitally important for athletes who are training hard. But I did a few days where I purposefully deprived myself of good sleep, getting only a few hours or sleep or sleeping on a hardwood floor - and then going to do a hard workout. It was another unusual means for me to get prepared for anything at SCAR. On those days where I woke up from a deep sleep only a few hours after going to bed, or the days where I slept in my clothes on a hardwood floor, it was tough to swim fast. But I wanted my body to perform under suboptimal conditions. I do not recommend this for others, but for me, it was necessary - because I did not know what to expect at SCAR and I had been so far removed from overall physical discomfort over the last three decades. Those workouts in a sleep-deprived state reminded me of what I could face."

Nutrition

"I eat mostly a diet of Japanese and Mexican food, influenced by my wife and mother respectively. I don't take vitamins or eat any special ketogenic, vegan or specialty diet, but there are two supplements that I take."

1. ENERGYbits which are organically grown, high-protein, nutrient-dense spirulina algae tablets.
2. Quinton hypertonic seawater that comes in glass vials that has all the minerals that are necessary.

"I had heard that gourmet meals and nice restaurants were not abundant - or even available during the SCAR Swim so I wanted to make sure that I was able to supplement my diet with all the vitamins and minerals that is usually has and had to be replaced during and after these long swims. The ENERGYbits tablets and Quinton vials were the perfect solution: I ate a algae tablet packet and a single seawater vial both in the morning and evening. It worked."



Day One - Saguaro Lake

"I finished the dam-to-dam crossing of Saguaro Lake in 3 hours 14 minutes 3.6 seconds. I did not know what to expect, except cold water at the start. It was cold for sure, but the water temperature warmed up after a few kilometers and stayed suitably not-cold for the duration of the swim. I enjoyed the scenery and got motivated each time I was able to swim next to another swimmer. I averaged 154 beats per minute over the entire course with a max of 181 bpm.

As soon as I finished the swim and climbed in the official's boat, I started doing KAATSU Cycle sets on my arms. I continued doing KAATSU Cycle sets until I felt almost fully recovered which took about 30 minutes. I was ready for Day Two by dinner."

International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame Honor Swimmer David Barra of New York said of Saguaro, "The banks of the river/lake are lined with sage and saguaro cacti that alternate between open areas and tall canyon walls rising straight out of the water. The rugged beauty of this lake is breathtaking, and I was, at times, distracted... wanting to focus my attention on one feature or another."

Day Two - Canyon Lake

"I finished the dam-to-dam crossing of Canyon Lake in 3 hours 44 minutes 26.2 seconds. This was a very tough swim. We had to go all-out in the first 500 meters because of a very strong countercurrent. Right from the start, I was sprinting for a while, but then I settled down and wanted to conserve my energe for the longest lake tomorrow. I averaged 90 beats per minute over the entire course with a max of 186 bpm at the end."

As soon as I finished the swim, I started doing KAATSU Cycle sets on my arms. I continued doing KAATSU Cycle sets for over 30 minutes in the car on the way back to the hotel. I did a few sets on my legs, but I felt fully recovered and ready for Day Three."

SCAR veteran Janet Harris of New York said of Canyon, "Canyon Lake lived up to its name - the walls rose up dramatically on both sides of the lake all along the twisty route from dam to dam. We even saw a big-horn sheep along the way."

Day Three - Apache Lake

"I finished the dam-to-dam crossing of Apache Lake in 6 hours 30 minutes 34.5 seconds. Not only were the logistics of this swim challenging and ranged from our pontoon boat stalling twice - to a dead stop - to an hour-long drive along a bumpy 11-mile dirt road to the start, but I also didn't think I could finish when we jumped in the cold water at the start. It was simply too much - too cold. But I calmed my breathing and stayed focused - for the next several hours. I averaged 135 beats per minute over the entire course with a max of 164 bpm in the middle of the course."

As soon as I finished the swim, I started doing KAATSU Cycle sets on my arms in the official's boat. I continued doing 6-8 KAATSU Cycle sets for over 30 minutes in the hotel. I didn't do any sets on my legs because I felt ready for Day Four by the time I feel asleep."

Seven-time English Channel swimmer Sally Minty-Gravett, MBE of the Isle of Jersey said of Apache, "The toughest swim I have EVER done."

Day Four - Roosevelt Lake

"I finished the dam-to-dam crossing of Roosevelt Lake in 2 hours 39 minutes 25.7 seconds. This was a night swim - and it was pitch black when we finished. We used a green light so Chris could keep track of me after night feel and Chris had a head lamp on with glow sticks on his kayak so I could follow him in the darkness.

The lake was so tranquil and the temperature of the water was so comfortable - finally. I averaged 139 beats per minute over the entire course with a max of 162 bpm in the middle of the course.

As soon as I finished the swim, we packed up and had to catch an early morning flight back to LAX for the 4-day Milken Global Conference where [escort kayaker] Chris [Morgan] and I would stand on our feet all day, demonstrating and explaining KAATSU. So I went to bed right away and woke up a few hours later and did repeated KAATSU Cycle sets in the car to the airport more than an hour away. By the time, we got to the airport in Phoenix, I felt recovered enough to participate in the Conference."

I have to account for a successful four days in Arizona - and the subsequent four days at a busy conference - with my daily use of KAATSU. I was stronger as a result, I recovered faster, and I was able to avoid any overuse injuries despite a pretty intense physical preparation for one of the world's toughest extreme sporting events."

SCAR veteran Patrick Brundage from Arizona said of Roosevelt, "I could swing my eyes upward a bit and see the brilliant starry sky that we never get to see in light-polluted Phoenix. It was gorgeous. Add to that the neat effect of my orange glow stick wrist band and one of my pink glow sticks that was on a longer string flopping around and this was the closest I think I'll ever come to a swimming rave. I didn't even need club music to get totally lost in the zone of swimming. I was really digging it."

Cumulative Time Results

1. Steven Munatones 16 hours 8 minutes 30.0 seconds
2. Lura Wilhelm 17 hours 54 minutes 6.2 seconds
3. Jordan Iverson 18 hours 16 minutes 22.5 seconds
4. Van Cornwell 18 hours 21 minutes 55.1 seconds
5. Leslie Hamilton 18 hours 50 minutes 59.4 seconds
6. Stefan Reinke 19 hours 11 minutes 39.8 seconds
7. Martyn Webster 19 hours 29 minutes 34.7 seconds
8. Martha Wood 20 hours 10 minutes 37.1 seconds
9. Sydelle Harrison 20 hours 10 minutes 37.4 seconds
10. Eric Durban 20 hours 37 minutes 36.0 seconds
11. Lars Durban 20 hours 37 minutes 36.0 seconds
12. Neil Hailstone 20 hours 39 minutes 14.4 seconds
13. Sarah Roberts 22 hours 55 minutes 39.5 seconds
14. Jane Mason 25 hours 12 minutes 51.2 seconds
15. Elaine Howley 25 hours 14 minutes 50.9 seconds

Other swimmers included Tracy Knight, Steve Sutton, Wendy Van De Sompele, Lauren Byron, Dana Price, Robin Hipolito, Peter Hayden, James Savage, Jorge Cortina, Andrew Wallace, Lauren Hasselquist, William Dichtel, Carol Bauer, Brian Lanahan, Mark Ochsner, Erin Churchill, Sarah Taft, Finbarr Hedderman, Michelle Squyer, Jessica Wood, Kyle Poland, Courtney Paulk, John Zemaitis, Melodee Liegl, Marnie Whitley, Bryan Crane, Eric Schall, Mark Spratt, Tricia Elmer, Kristiana Fox, Sidney Russell, Michael Reilly, and Susie Paul.

Nicholas described the event after the last swimmer finished, "[We got] off to a great sunny start with mild headwind halfway into the Saguaro swim. There was some debris in the water at the start, but swimmers and crew navigated without issue. Steven Munatones and Lura Wilhelm leading the pack on Day #1. Day #2 at Canyon was absolutely brutal - being the toughest Canyon swim in SCAR history. Horse Mesa dam was drawing water creating a counter current. Apache was a serious challenge with a medium to high headwind. Day #3 at Apache proved to live up to its reputation. With a relative calm for the first two and half hours, a medium to heavy headwind was substantial [for the rest of the swim]. Day #4 was a new experience with Roosevelt 2.0 being a triangular course on the east side of the lake. Overall, it was a very successful swim series with Steven Munatones and Lura Wilhelm taking home the SCAR buckle."

For more information on SCAR Swim, visit www.scarswim.com. For complete race results, visit here.

For more information on KAATSU, visit www.kaatsu.com.

Epilogue:

Munatones summed up his final thoughts, "Ever since I was released from the hospital, I have dreamed of doing something to prove to myself that I am capable of living a normal life. I feel so grateful for all the people who have helped and encouraged me along the way.

Weeks after going into full (ventricular fibrillation) arrest, having an (atypical thrombus) clot, and experiencing myocardial infarction (heart attack) in the left anterior descending (LAD) artery, and being saved by my 17-year-old son doing hands-only CPR, I have been doing KAATSU daily. I know it sounds like a shameful plug for a company that I work for, and this form of cardiac rehabilitation is definitely not for everyone, but I have experienced so many benefits cardiovascularly, metabolically, and muscularly with the daily Progressive KAATSU Cycle sessions that I do (i.e., 30 seconds of pressure, followed by 5 seconds of no pressure) that I would always recommend the same for my family members, if they ever experienced the same widow maker like me.

I was smiling underwater and so happy while swimming in those four lake of SCAR. I have so much to be thankful for. Thank you very much, (race director) Kent."

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