KAATSU blog posts testimonials, protocols, case studies, techniques and ideas about KAATSU for recovery, rehabilitation, functional mobility and athletic performance. Statements included in this blog have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Saturday, October 15, 2022
KAATSU Protocols for Pre- and Post-Hip Surgery
For what? prehab and rapid rehab recovery in order to regain mobility and flexibility, and maintain strength
Some surgeries are minimally invasive and others are much more so, like hip surgeries.
The fundamental post-surgerical KAATSU protocols for those who have had hip surgery involve traditional physical therapy combined with Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets performed before, during, and after each physical therapy session.
Before Physical Therapy
Before a post-surgerical patient begins their traditional physical therapy, they can do 3-6 sets of the Progressive KAATSU Cycle mode (from low pressure to higher pressure), both on their arms and legs.
This is due to the systemic effects of KAATSU and the biochemical reactions that occur as the result of Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets.
During Physical Therapy
During physical therapy, the patient continues to do the traditional modalities that their therapist prescribes. They can do these movements and exercises with the low-to-medium KAATSU Cycle pressures on (i.e., 30 seconds of compression followed by 5 seconds of decompression, as the compression gradually and incrementally increases).
Key Points
* The decompressed KAATSU Air Bands are manually placed on the limbs with standard one-finger tightness
* The decompressed KAATSU Air Bands are then inflated slowly, gradually, repeatedly, and incrementally
* In the beginning of the session, patients can do the following KAATSU 3-point exercises during the compression and decompression phases: toe curls + ankle dorsiflexion + ankle plantar flexion
* As they warm-up, patients can do KAATSU Walking, gradually increasing the distance during each session
* As they heal and progress with their physical therapy, they can add quarter squats and calf raises and other movements and exercises, as well as increase their walking distance
* The session can continue after removing the KAATSU Air Bands as they finish with traditional physical therapy
* The patients can use their KAATSU equipment at home or at the facility after their physical therapy session is over, doing low-to-medium Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on their arms - and their legs, if they wish
* In the early stages of intervention, only one KAATSU Air Band is placed on their affected leg. As they heal and progress, both KAATSU Air Bands are placed on both their affected and healthy legs.
* Throughout the rehabilitation and recovery period, patients can use the KAATSU Air Bands are both their arms without restriction, doing standard training movements in the Progressive KAATSU Cycle mode placed on both arms
These Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets help enhance the natural healing process due to the systemic effects of KAATSU.
Steven Munatones says, "One thing that we have seen time and time again with surgeries on the upper and lower limbs is how quickly the patients' skin and wounds heal. The skin around the wound heals so quickly with repeated KAATSU Cycle sets that the skin grows over the sutures - much faster than what is normally expected by physicians.
When physicians schedule the normal removal of the sutures, patients utilizing Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets will often experience faster than normal healing of wounds and incisions. So, a patient should inform their attending physician of this phenomenon."
Additional Helpful Hints
* Patients can augment their traditional physical therapy with Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets up to 3 times per day in the comfort of their home or before or during their physical therapy sessions in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings.
* Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets consist of repeated 30 seconds of inflation of the KAATSU Air Bands followed by 5 seconds of deflation. There is a slight increase in pressure during each subsequent inflation interval.
* 3-6 Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets are first done on their arms and then followed by 3-6 additional Progressive KAATSU Cycle sets on their legs.
* All standard KAATSU protocols (i.e., Do's and Don'ts) should be strictly followed:
-- remain well hydrated before and during the KAATSU sessions
-- 'one-finger tightness' is recommended when applying the KAATSU Air Bands on your arm and leg bands
-- always start KAATSU on the arms, then do KAATSU on the legs
-- arm and leg skin tone should turn darker than the normal skin color (i.e., pinker or redder) as the limb's vascular tissue becomes engorged with blood
-- breathe normally while doing KAATSU; holding of one's breath is strictly prohibited
-- always feel comfortable doing KAATSU; never feel uncomfortable or lightheaded
-- always start off with conservative pressure and gradually increase
-- do simple movements during KAATSU Cycle sets; intense, vigorous exercises are not required
-- do Single-limb KAATSU Cycle sets on the affected leg in the initial stages and then incorporate the Standard (Dual-limb) KAATSU Cycle sets on both legs later
-- do simple Standard KAATSU 3-Point Exercises on the arms (e.g., Hand Clenches, Biceps Curls, Triceps Extensions)
-- Additionally, isometric exercises and muscle contractions can also be performed
-- avoid any painful or sudden movements. KAATSU is best done with slow, easy, gentle movements
-- The skin and underlying tissue quickly repair and recover - so much so that patients who do post-surgery KAATSU will have to get their stitches removed much more quickly than those patients who do not do KAATSU
"You always want to start off with your arms," said Munatones. "That is key for optimization of the effects on your lower body, although that may seem counter-intuitive. Also, seemingly counter-intuitive is to start slowly with the KAATSU pressure. There is no need to start off with high pressure; in fact, that is not recommended. You always need to start with light, conservative pressure. You can start off with low pressure on the first one or two sets - each set is between 5-6 minutes. Then you gradually increase the pressure on the subsequent sets.
These protocols and recommendations are standard no matter what KAATSU equipment is used (i.e., KAATSU Cycle 2.0, KAATSU Master 2.0, KAATSU C3, KAATSU B1, KAATSU M3 models).
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
KAATSU Can Help Save The Future Of Humanity - It's Time To Give A Sit
Schools and children are decreasing their amount of required and desired physical activity.
Commercialism is also a significant driver of reduced physical activity. Homes, offices, schools, are public spaces are being re-engineered to minimize human movement and muscular activity. Companies and society offer elevators, escalators, moving sidewalks, electric bicycles, microwaves, bread makers, air fryers, rice cookers, blenders, nail drivers, farm equipment, smartphones, Roomba, walk-in bathtubs, factory robots, smartphones, and many other devices.
These all serve to create a culture of convenience where the need for movement and the desire to exercise dramatically decrease as a result.
Sitting is the new cancer of society: sitting at work, to work, at home, while shopping.
As a result, society is facing a 90% increased risk of death from cardiovascular events, 112% increased risk of diabetes, 147% increased risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
Prolonged sitting is the #1 contributor to chronic diseases. The need for manual labor is being significantly reduced in all phases of human existence. Mankind’s increasingly rapid transformation from a physical demanding life to lifestyles with few physical challenges has consequences.
And the transformation will only continue throughout the 21st century.
It is time to give a sit...with KAATSU
KAATSU is quick, easy, convenient, effective. It is almost too good to be true, but KAATSU is our best health and wellness alternative as sitting has become the most prevalent activity of the human race.
How does KAATSU work while we sit?
The KAATSU Air Bands are not a tourniquet or blood pressure cuff, although they may look like cuffs or tourniquets.
The KAATSU Air Bands serve to achieve the opposite than blood pressure cuffs; KAATSU equipment safely and conveniently allow the arterial blood flow (from our torso to our limbs) to naturally continue to flow unimpeded. At the same time, the position and inflation of the KAATSU Air Bands slowly, gradually, repeatedly, temporarily, and gently slows down the venous blood flow (from our limbs back to our torso). When the blood engorges the capillaries and veins of our limbs, this replicates the physiological effects of exercise, both from a vascular and hormonal perspective.
KAATSU is a brilliant, simple solution to a growing pervasive problem.
How does KAATSU work in reality - in a work cubicle, office, or at home?
At the recent 37th annual World Congress of Sports Medicine, scientists, corporate executives, and Olympic coaches were astonished and fascinated when researchers reported, "KAATSU leads to positive adaptations for muscle mass, muscle strength, functional capacity, quality of life, and muscle mitochondrial function are achieved for people of all ages and walks of life with minimal movement and minimal effort."
KAATSU equipment can be placed on the upper arms or upper legs while sitting and offers is a convenient, easy-to-use, safe modality that leads to muscle toning, increased calorie burn, and positive hormonal responses.
This is extremely important and effective when people are unmotivated, unwilling, or unable to exercise - or when conventional training (e.g., weightlifting, running) is contraindicated due to the stress of exercising with high resistance or intensity, especialy for people facing obesity, musculoskeletal conditions, and chronic disorders.
Below are examples of simple KAATSU exercises for the upper body that can be performed in the office or in the comfort of your home.
Below are examples of simple KAATSU exercises for the lower body that can be performed in the office or in the comfort of your home.
Healthy does not have to be hard.
KAATSU provides the convenience, ease, and positive outcomes. As a result of regularly doing KAATSU for 20-30 minutes per session while doing office work, writing emails, or reading at work, the effects of a sedentary lifestyle can be effectively reversed without requiring vigorous, intense, or prolonged exercise.
These KAATSU users are actually working out while simply sitting and relaxing at their home, office, or while reading.
The Progressive KAATSU Cycle mode is automatic; the bands are inflated for 30 seconds, followed by a deflation of the bands for 5 seconds. This “cycle” is repeatedly done, starting at a low pressure and increasing to higher pressures. This incremental and repeated compression and decompression of the KAATSU Air Bands safely and comfortably leads to the increased elasticity of the vascular tissue – essentially replicating a warm-up and workout for those who lead sedentary lifestyles or who are older or injured or otherwise compromised or unmotivated to exercise as the medical community recommends.
As a result, the effects of a sedentary lifestyle are conveniently reversed without requiring vigorous, intense, or prolonged exercise.
Workplace wellness programs often involve employees going to corporate gyms or visiting offsite fitness centers or doing runs, walks or other preferred physical activities outside the office. These corporate wellness programs are widely accepted health promotion activities and organizational policies designed to support healthy behavior among employees in companies and organizations.
Instead of going outside the office or outdoors, instead of changing out of your work attire, instead of potentially messing up your make-up or hair, instead of wrinkling or perspiring in your work clothes, KAATSU technology presents the ultimate in convenience and effectiveness.
KAATSU enables workplace wellness to take place in work cubicles, offices and on business trips anywhere from hotels or airport lounges with its myriad portable products from the KAATSU Nano to the PERL Wearables.
Similar to standard corporate wellness programs that support healthy or motivated employees to exercise or conduct stress-reducing behavior that is considered a risk factor for poor health, either at on- or off-campus locations, KAATSU offers a unique, innovative means to obtain the benefits of everything from easy stretching to vigorous exercises within work cubicles and at the employee's desks as shown below:
Simple KAATSU exercises using KAATSU devices can be performed by anyone anywhere anytime, including in offices and work cubicles in addition to in hotels and airports during business trips.
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
How Old Can You Do KAATSU? Can Children Use KAATSU?
Fundamentally, the answer is yes.
However, it is the policy of KAATSU Global, Inc. to limit KAATSU's use to teenagers over the age of 13. Officially, KAATSU User Manuals state, "If you are under the age of 14, we recommend you do not use KAATSU." In the KAATSU Specialist training program, the guidelines state, "Do not use if you are under 14 years old."
These recommendations are due to a small number of overly ambitious adults who place KAATSU Air Bands on their children with too high pressures in the KAATSU Constant mode for much too long durations. In their zeal to see athletic success for their young children, parents and coaches occasionally believe "more is better" with KAATSU (as with other training modalities from their perspective). That is, a higher pressure is better than a lower pressure. Or the KAATSU Constant mode produces better results than the KAATSU Cycle mode. Or 60 minutes of KAATSU is better than 20 minutes of KAATSU.
None of these are true - and can be detrimental or, at the very least, sub-optimal to standard, proven-over-decades protocols of KAATSU:
* Primarily or exclusively use the Cycle mode
* Start off with low pressures and gradually, only incrementally increase the pressure
* Focus on the Progressive Cycle mode - continue to work through the deflation phases if you wish
* Limit the KAATSU Constant mode to 10 minutes
* Be very well hydrated before and during KAATSU
* Always - without failure - confirm your CRT (Capillary Refill Time) is short (ideally under 1 second and minimally under 3 seconds)
* Always see a pinkness and slight vein distention in the limbs where the KAATSU Air Bands are placed
* Always feel comfortable - never induce pain or lightheadedness - while doing KAATSU Cycle sets
If these guidelines are strictly followed, there are no physiological reasons why individuals younger than 14 should avoid using KAATSU.
For example, athletes younger than 14 can very effectively use KAATSU for recovery after workouts and between/after competitions, or for rehabilitation of bones breaks, ligament tears, tendon ruptures, lacerations, muscle strains or tears, or for jet lag mitigation.
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Monday, October 10, 2022
Recovery From A Marathon And Climate Change
Used by elite athletes between preliminary heats, semifinal heats, and their final heats at the Olympic Games and World Championships, KAATSU recovery protocols are also used by high school and collegiate athletes after intense workouts and extreme sports athletes on multi-day competitions by Tour de France cyclists and stage swimmers (see Taking KAATSU To The Extreme here).
Another KAATSU user, United Nations Patron of the Oceans and British swimmer Lewis Pugh has long excelled at ice swimming, marathon swimming, stage swimming, channel swimming, and various sorts of extreme swimming.
His purpose?
To call attention to and effecting change in a changing marine environment.
From the bottom of the Earth to the North Pole, Pugh has done numerous environmental swims. Tomorrow on October 11th, he will start an unprecedented 160 km stage swim across the Red Sea from Saudi Arabia to Hurghada, Egypt, ahead of the UN Climate Conference (COP27) that will be held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt.
He plans to finish on October 25th. His feat will require 15 days of non-stop swimming a bit over 10 kilometers each day. Recovery from each marathon swim of over 6.2 miles will be essential for his success.
His goal?
To pioneer The Red Sea Swim while highlighting the impact of climate change on coral reefs which supports essential biodiversity. He explains, "The Red Sea is home to some of the world's most biodiverse coral reefs, and the most resistant to climate change. The swim will highlight the speed of the Climate Crisis ahead of COP27, where all nations will be encouraged to drastically cut their emissions."
Pugh is calling for 30% of the world’s oceans to be protected by 2030.
Permissions to attempt this 2-week stage swim from Saudi Arabia to Egypt recently came through in October. Along the way, he will swim approximately 10 km every day and will pass Sharm el-Sheikh where world leaders will be gathering for COP27 in November.
Pugh will swim over some of the most precious coral in the world while avoiding the large tankers in one of the world's busiest shipping lanes leading to the Suez Canal and urging nations to drastically cut their emissions, to tackle the climate crisis, and protect the world’s oceans.
The International Marathon Swimming Hall of Famer explains, "Coral reefs support 25% of all ocean life and are the most biologically diverse ecosystem on Earth. If we lose our coral reefs, we will not just drive many thousands of species into extinction, we will lose an entire ecosystem, on which we depend. This would be unprecedented in human history. Coral reefs are the nurseries of our oceans, and home to some of the most incredible life on earth. I refuse to accept that we could lose them in my lifetime."
While he is best known for swimming in the coldest waters in the world in Antarctica, North Pole, and high up on Mount Everest, Pugh will now swim in very warm water. "I've been swimming in the world's oceans for 35 years, and during that time I've seen them change dramatically. The biggest changes I've seen are in the Polar Regions, and in coral reefs. Both are affected by rising temperatures: the poles are melting, and the coral is dying. Ice and coral are the Ground Zeros of the Climate Crisis. These changes are happening before our very eyes; as evidence of global warming, they are indisputable.
Scientists warn that if we heat our planet by more than 1.5°C, we will lose 70% of the world's coral reefs. If we heat it by 2°C, 99% of coral reefs will die. We are currently on track for at least 2.2°C increase."
UN Secretary General António Guterres calls the Climate Crisis "a code red for humanity". Pugh emphasizes that "coral reefs are the barometers that illustrate clearly what happens when we heat our planet. Every fraction of a degree now matters."
If ever an area needed to be properly protected, this is it. Half the world’s coral reefs are believed to have died since the 1950's due to warming sea temperatures, combined with overfishing, pollution and reef disturbance. Red Sea coral is different. Researchers have found that the coral in the Red Sea is more resilient to warming and acidification than coral in other places, such as the Great Barrier Reef, where bleaching events are increasingly common.
If temperatures continue to rise as predicted, the coral of the Red Sea could be the last surviving coral on earth, so it is imperative that we protect it from other threats."
The Lewis Pugh Foundation is partnered with HEPCA – the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association - to promote and organize his Red Sea Swim. HEPCA is a passionate and proactive network of scientists, professional divers, industry experts, and community members working to protect the resources of the Red Sea.
HEPCA are calling for the Great Fringing Reef of the Egyptian Red Sea to be declared a multiple-use protected area. There is clear scientific evidence that the Great Fringing Reef, which is characterized by high resilience and tolerance to climate change, could be the last refuge for coral reefs worldwide. One of HEPCA's projects is to reduce the pressure on the coral reefs around Hurghada, where the number of dives at some sites has reached more than 200,000 annually (the recommended carrying capacity is 5,000 - 22,000 dives in a single dive spot).
Marine Protected Areas (MPA's) make the oceans more resilient to climate change. At the UN Climate Conference (COP27) in Sharm el Sheikh this November, Lewis will call for 30% of the world’s oceans to be protected by 2030, stressing to world leaders the role healthy oceans play in mitigating against the Climate Crisis. He hopes government officials will move beyond long-term commitments towards immediate urgent action.
Lewis Pugh Foundation Partners
- The United Nations Environment Programme coordinates responses to environmental issues within the United Nations system. Its programmes focus on climate, nature, pollution, and sustainable development. Lewis Pugh became UNEP Patron of the Oceans in 2014.
- Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA) is focussed on protecting the resources of the Red Sea.
- The Ocean Agency is a strategic creative NGO working to accelerate ocean science and fast-track ocean conservation.
- Legal and General Investment Management regularly voted one of the world's most sustainable investment managers. CEO Michelle Scrimgeour says, “The danger of a climate catastrophe is real. We are proud to support Lewis’s efforts to raise awareness and push for positive change. By working collaboratively with others in our industry, with companies and policymakers, we will see the rapid action needed to deliver the transition. Inaction is not an option."
In 2018, Pugh swam the length of the English Channel from Land's End to Dover calling for the UK to protect 30% of oceans by 2030. After the swim the UK become the first major economy to commit to this target, and urged other nations to do the same. To date, 128 nations have joined this call, making it the largest conservation drive in history.
The COP27 (UN Climate Change Conference) will be held November 7th - 18th in Sharm el Sheikh.
For more information on the Lewis Pugh Foundation, visit here.
For more information on The Red Sea Swim, visit here.
Photo courtesy of Steve Benjamin of the Lewis Pugh Foundation.
Copyright © 2014 – 2022 by KAATSU Global
Sunday, October 9, 2022
KAATSU at The Cutting Edge of Longevity at RAADFest
KAATSU Showcased at RAADFest in San Diego
KAATSU Global, the pioneer of the global Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) market, was demonstrated and exhibited at the RAADFest in San Diego, California on October 6th - 9th. The theme of the conference - Come To The Cutting Edge of Your Longevity - fit very well with the physiological outcomes of KAATSU users - that included popular speaker, and two-time Olympic gymnast Stephen McCain.
KAATSU was one of a number of pioneers who are providing next-generation solutions for living longer and healthier.
On the heels of presentations made at the 37th World Congress of Sports Medicine under the guidance of Professor Yannis Pitsiladis, Chairman of the International Scientific Committee and member of the Medical and Scientific Commission of the International Olympic Committee, Steven Munatones and Pete Hogan will demonstrate and explain a host of KAATSU applications and protocols in the areas of athletic performance, rehabilitation, and recovery from training, competition, and jet lag. The new KAATSU B1 tubeless device, controlled by a smartphone app, was demonstrated to people of all ages and walks of life.
KAATSU Master Specialist Pete Hogan and Steven Munatones explained the groundbreaking effects of the Progressive KAATSU Cycle modality on metabolism, perceptual, mood and cognitive responses to resistance exercise and its practical applications with jet lag mitigation, rehabilitation, and post-exercise recovery.
The benefits of the KAATSU Cycle were recently published and contribute to the growing body of evidence of BFR (blood flow restriction). "It is gratifying to know that Professor Pitsiladis, Dr. Nikolaidi, Dr. Giannopoulou and Dr. Guppy are exploring the benefits and outcomes of the patented KAATSU Cycle modality and our proprietary protocols. As they delve deeper into the advantages and profound simplicity of the KAATSU technology, their knowledge will help many others in Europe and around the world better understand the numerous applications that can improve athletic performance, rehabilitation, and recovery for elite, competitive and recreational athletes - and those of any age," said Munatones.
KAATSU is the world’s most intelligent automated pressure system for training, health, rehabilitation, and recovery. Invented in 1966 by Dr. Yoshiaki Sato of Tokyo, Japan, and protected by 47 patents, KAATSU next-generation equipment and protocols, including its progressive cycle modality, have a unique and unprecedented safety track record used in over 100 million individual KAATSU sessions in 49 countries around the globe.
For more information on the RAADFest, visit here.
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Saturday, October 8, 2022
KAATSU (at Health) Rocks
KAATSU Showcased at Health Rocks Festival in San Diego
KAATSU Global, the pioneer of the global Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) market, will be exhibited at the inaugural Health Rocks Festival in Escondido, California on October 8th - 9th. The Congress is organized by Palomar Health, a large primary and specialty care provider that serves San Diego County in Southern California.
On the heels of presentations made at the 37th World Congress of Sports Medicine under the guidance of Professor Yannis Pitsiladis, Chairman of the International Scientific Committee and member of the Medical and Scientific Commission of the International Olympic Committee, Steven Munatones and Pete Hogan will demonstrate and explain a host of KAATSU applications and protocols in the areas of athletic performance, rehabilitation, and recovery from training, competition, and jet lag. They will also launch the new KAATSU B1 tubeless device that is controlled by a smartphone app.
The demonstration will be held in the midst of live music, a Ninja Warrior obstacle course, free health screenings, meet-and-greet with Olympic gold medalists, food trucks, beer garden and wine bar, and a host of games, giveaways, and contests.
Hogan and Munatones will explain the unprecedented effects of the Progressive KAATSU Cycle modality on metabolism, perceptual, mood and cognitive responses to resistance exercise and its practical applications on jet lag mitigation and post-exercise recovery.
The benefits of the KAATSU Cycle were recently published and contribute to the growing body of evidence of BFR (blood flow restriction).
"It is gratifying to know that Professor Pitsiladis, Dr. Nikolaidi, Dr. Giannopoulou and Dr. Guppy are exploring the benefits and outcomes of the patented KAATSU Cycle modality and our proprietary protocols. As they delve deeper into the advantages and profound simplicity of the KAATSU technology, their knowledge will help many others in Europe and around the world better understand the numerous applications that can improve athletic performance, rehabilitation, and recovery for elite, competitive and recreational athletes - and those of any age," said Munatones.
About KAATSU
KAATSU is the world’s most intelligent automated pressure system for training, health and recovery. Invented in 1966 by Dr. Yoshiaki Sato of Tokyo, Japan, and protected by 47 patents, KAATSU next-generation equipment and protocols, including cycle, have a unique and unprecedented safety track record used in over 100 million individual KAATSU sessions in 49 countries around the globe.
Friday, September 23, 2022
KAATSU B1 To Be Showcased At The 2022 ASUA Meeting & Convention
Hosted October 10th-12th in Washington, DC by the Association of the United States Army, the Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting & Exposition is the largest land power exposition and professional development forum in North America. This AUSA-organized event includes informative presentations, panel discussions on pertinent military and national security subjects, workshops, and exhibitions.
KAATSU Global will share its revolutionary modality to the military community - after offering the same to the medical and sports communities at the 37th World Congress of Sports Medicine held this week in Mexico.
KAATSU Global is showcasing itsrecently launched KAATSU B1 tubeless device that is controlled by a smartphone app at ASUA.
Navy SEAL Captain John Doolittle and KAATSU Master Specialist Chris Morgan will showcase the new KAATSU B1 along with the workhorse KAATSU C3 and clinical KAATSU M3 models. They will demonstrate and explain the effects of the Progressive KAATSU Cycle modality with the B1, C3, and M3 on metabolism, perceptual, mood and cognitive responses to resistance exercise and its practical applications on jet lag mitigation and post-exercise recovery.
As the sports scientists and military community both delve deeper into the advantages, profound simplicity, and unheard of outcomes of the KAATSU technology and our non-intuitive protocols, their collective knowledge and acceptance will help many others around the world better understand the numerous applications that can improve athletic performance, rehabilitation, recovery, balance, and strength gains for tactical, elite, competitive and recreational athletes - as well as for those of any age and walk of life," said Steven Munatones, CEO of KAATSU Global.
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Thursday, September 22, 2022
KAATSU Presentation at 37th World Congress of Sports Medicine
KAATSU Helps Usher in New Era of Sports Medicine
KAATSU Presentation at 37th World Congress of Sports Medicine
Huntington Beach, Calif, September 22, 2022 -- KAATSU Global, the pioneer of the global Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) market, will be presented at the 37th World Congress of Sports Medicine. The Congress is organized by the International Federation of Sports Medicine and will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico, September 22 - 25.
Under the guidance of Professor Yannis Pitsiladis, Chairman of the International Scientific Committee and member of the Medical and Scientific Commission of the International Olympic Committee, Dr. Fergus Guppy and Dr. Maria Kotopoulea Nikolaidi of the University of Brighton will host a symposium of KAATSU training and explain the latest developments for elite athletes, the elderly, and clinical populations. Applications in these three markets will be demonstrated by Steven Munatones and Chris Morgan of KAATSU Global using the recently launched KAATSU B1 tubeless device that is controlled by a smartphone app.
The symposium will also cover data showing the effects of the Progressive KAATSU Cycle modality on metabolism, perceptual, mood and cognitive responses to resistance exercise and its practical applications on jet lag mitigation and post-exercise recovery.
In the sporting world, there has long been anecdotal evidence of the benefits of the KAATSU Cycle, the researchers from the University of Brighton are excited to publish peer-reviewed data to contribute to the BFR body of evidence.
"It is gratifying to know that Professor Pitsiladis, Dr. Nikolaidi, Dr. Giannopoulou and Dr. Guppy are exploring the benefits and outcomes of the patented KAATSU Cycle modality and our proprietary protocols. As they delve deeper into the advantages and profound simplicity of the KAATSU technology, their knowledge will help many others in Europe and around the world better understand the numerous applications that can improve athletic performance, rehabilitation, and recovery for elite, competitive and recreational athletes - and those of any age," said Steven Munatones, Co-founder and CEO of KAATSU.
About KAATSU
KAATSU is the world’s most intelligent automated pressure system for training, health and recovery. Invented in 1966 by Dr. Yoshiaki Sato of Tokyo, Japan, and protected by 47 patents, KAATSU next-generation equipment and protocols, including cycle, have a unique and unprecedented safety track record used in over 100 million individual KAATSU sessions in 49 countries around the globe.
About FIMS
The International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS) is home to 4 continental sports medicine associations and 117 national associations worldwide, bringing together 125,000 sports doctors from 117 countries.
Tuesday, September 13, 2022
KAATSU with Individuals with Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a problem that causes decreased blood flow to the fingers. In some cases, it also causes less blood flow to the ears, toes, nipples, knees, or nose. This happens due to spasms of blood vessels in those areas. The spasms happen in response to cold, stress, or emotional upset.
Individuals with Raynaud's disease should use KAATSU equipment very carefully and very gently. These are the standard KAATSU recommendations:
1. Only use the KAATSU Cycle mode. Never use the KAATSU Constant mode.
2. Only use the KAATSU Cycle mode while sitting down or relaxing comfortably. Never use while exercising vigorously or intensely.
3. Only use in climatic conditions and situations where the user is comfortable. Never use while cold or stressed.
4. Only use the KAATSU Air Bands with VERY VERY light pressure. Never use above the low pressure settings.
5. Always place the KAATSU Air Bands on VERY VERY lightly. Never place the bands with the standard KAATSU "one-finger tightness" use "2-finger" or "3-finger" or "4-finger" tightness.
6. Always use when the individual is very well hydrated.
7. Only do one KAATSU Cycle set on the first day in the low pressure setting and carefully monitor the condition and reaction.
8. If there are problems or uncomfortableness with the KAATSU Air Bands on the arms, then do not use KAATSU on the arms. Use only on the legs.
9. Remove the bands immediately if the individual starts to feel pain or become lightheaded.
Individuals with Raynaud's disease can take several months to get accustomed to KAATSU. Always VERY VERY gradually and gently training the capillary tissue to become more resilient and elastic.
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Monday, September 12, 2022
Advantages and Benefits of the KAATSU B1 + Unboxing the B1 and Downloading the app
The Bluetooth-enabled KAATSU B1 device is the newest model in the KAATSU product line.
The B1 operates via a smartphone, either an Android or iOS app. The B1 can be safely utilized anywhere anytime by anyone with a smartphone.
Costs
• The KAATSU B1 - Dual Model comes with 2 Wearable units, 2 KAATSU Arm Air Bands, 2 KAATSU Leg Air Bands, and includes the online KAATSU Education Course, KAATSU Magazines, access to the KAATSU Performance (a cloud-based database), a customized training program (if desired), and a 1-year warranty for $1,499.99. The 2 Wearable units are interchangeable between KAATSU Arm Air Bands and KAATSU Leg Air Bands.
• The KAATSU B1 - Quad Model comes with 4 Wearable units, 2 KAATSU Arm Air Bands, 2 KAATSU Leg Air Bands, and includes the online KAATSU Education Course, KAATSU Magazines, access to the KAATSU Performance (a cloud-based database), a customized training program (if desired), and a 1-year warranty for $1,999.99.
• The KAATSU B1 - Leg & Core Model comes with 2 Wearable units, 2 KAATSU Leg Air Bands, and includes the online KAATSU Education Course, KAATSU Magazines, access to the KAATSU Performance (a cloud-based database), a customized training program (if desired), and a 1-year warranty for $1,349.99.
• The KAATSU B1 - Arm Model comes with 2 Wearable units, 2 KAATSU Leg Air Bands, and includes the online KAATSU Education Course, KAATSU Magazines, access to the KAATSU Performance (a cloud-based database), a customized training program (if desired), and a 1-year warranty for $1,299.99.
• There is an optional 2-year warranty for $199.99, an optional KAATSU Masters Specialist Course for $250, an optional KAATSU CEU Course that will be offered for $799.99 by year-end 2022, and an optional Masimo MightySat Finger Pulse Oximeter for $299.
Applications & Operations
• The KAATSU protocols (applications) are the same as used with previous KAATSU models (i.e., KAATSU Master, KAATSU Master 2.0, KAATSU M3, KAATSU Cycle 2.0, KAATSU Nano, KAATSU C3) and are based on clinical evidence derived from decades of research in the Japan, China, United States, and United Kingdom.
• The ultra-lightweight B1 Wearable units are connected with the arm and leg KAATSU Air Bands that control the inflation and deflation of uniquely designed internal pneumatic bladders. The bands do not impede arterial flow and only serve to gently, repeatedly, gradually, and briefly modify venous flow with KAATSU’s patented customizable Cycle pressure modes.
• Either one or two B1 Air Bands can be worn at a time, for single-limb or double-limb KAATSU. Like all other KAATSU Air Bands, the bands are placed on either your upper arms or upper legs. The Wearable units and bands are operated by the KAATSU B1 app on your smartphone. The KAATSU app is available on both iOS and Android.
• The KAATSU B1 app captures, archives, and analyzes your individual usage data that can be shared with physicians, therapists, coaches, trainers, chiropractors, teammates, and compared with others in the KAATSU Performance ecosystem.
KAATSU B1 versus KAATSU C3 or KAATSU Cycle 2.0 Advantages
• Tubeless: The KAATSU B1 does not require connector tubes as with earlier KAATSU models. This allows users to have more mobility and freedom of movement in order to meet performance, recovery, wellness, and rehabilitation needs. The B1 is tangle-free without any risk of tripping on connector tubes.
• Data Capture: Real-time usage data is captured, archived, analyzed, and can be shared on both an individual and group basis.
• Clinical Applications: Medical professionals, therapists, trainers, and coaches can access usage data and provide remote diagnoses and therapeutic and training recommendations to users.
• KAATSU Ecosystem: The KAATSU B1 and KAATSU M3 share a common database so medical professionals, therapists, and coaches can use the M3 in a clinical setting and the user can use the B1 at home or at work with usage data shared across the B1 and M3 platforms.
KAATSU Benefits
• On a cellular level, KAATSU increases vascular elasticity, naturally produces a robust hormonal response and healthful metabolites, and improves oxygen and blood flow.
• Physiologically, these biochemical reactions lead to better health safely and faster.
• Unlike other BFR equipment, there is no occlusion of arterial blood flow which significantly increases its safety profile.
B1 Advantages
• The KAATSU B1 is ideal and easy to use for both active and non-active individuals whether able-bodied, injured, or disabled, users of all ages, coaches, trainers, chiropractors, physical therapists, and physicians.
• Global analyses of multiple parameters is enabled (by gender, age, application, pressure, BMI, etc.). Over time, this aggregated and comparative data will help educate future users and KAATSU Specialists on optimal usage patterns and applications.
• The KAATSU Ecosystem now includes 3 models at three different price points that are attractive for different types of users:
o C3 at $999.99 is the lowest cost model, ideal for individual use
o B1 at $1,499.99 is the mid-range model, ideal for individual and military/team/group use who desire data analyses and individual data storage on their smartphones
o M3 at $4,999.99 is the clinical model, ideal for hospitals, medical clinics, rehabilitation and wellness centers
Dual versus Quad Model Advantages
The primary advantages of KAATSU B1 Quad Model (with 4 Wearable units) versus the KAATSU B1 Dual Model (with 2 Wearable units) are as follows:
• Two people can simultaneously use the KAATSU B1 Quad Model. That is, a husband and wife or 2 teammates can use 2 Wearable units each, enabling them to workout together. In this case, one partner uses the arm bands while the other partner uses the leg bands - meanwhile all the data is captured on each of their own respective smartphones.
• Users do not have to remove and put back on the 2 Wearable units each time they transition from using their arm and leg bands. That is, they just keep the 4 Wearable units on the arm bands and leg bands all the time. The units can be charged simultaneously while the units stay on the bands.
• Users can share their Wearable units and bands with others who might be interested in learning more about KAATSU at the same time the original user is demonstrating the KAATSU B1 with 1 Wearable unit on 1 band. The system also enables single-limb use.
• In the case that 1 Wearable unit is damaged, gets wet, or is not charged, a user has the choice to interchangeable use their other 3 Wearable units so there is no downtime.
KAATSU B1 Package
• KAATSU B1 Wearables: 2 units in the Dual Model or 4 units in the Quad Model
• 2 KAATSU Arm Air Bands
• 2 KAATSU Leg Air Bands
• 2 KAATSU Arm Wearable covers
• 2 KAATSU Leg Wearable covers
• USB Type-C dual charger (to simultaneously charge 2 units)
• Black carrying case
• Android or iOS app
• KAATSU Performance (cloud-based database)
• Online KAATSU Education Program
• KAATSU Magazines
• Optional Masimo MightSat Finger Pulse Oximeter
• Customized training program (if desired)
Differences between the KAATSU C3 and KAATSU B1 Models
• KAATSU C3 has connector tubes; KAATSU B1 does not
• KAATSU C3 was developed to meet the rugged needs of tactical athletes (i.e., soldiers) who occasionally train in harsh, dusty, muddy, rainy conditions
• KAATSU C3 device easily fits in a shirt or pants pocket or be clipped to a pair of shorts, pants, or tights; KAATSU B1 Wearable units are attached to the KAATSU Air Bands.
• KAATSU C3 costs $999; KAATSU B1 starts at $1,299.
• KAATSU C3 and KAATSU B1 Air Bands are not interchangeable
For more information on the KAATSU B1, visit here.
Unboxing the KAATSU B1:
Downloading and using the KAATSU B1 app on an iPhone:
Copyright © 2014 - 2022 by KAATSU Global
Wednesday, June 15, 2022
Post-Natal KAATSU
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
Sunday, June 12, 2022
Why Do We Lose Muscle Strength With Age? Holding Off Sarcopenia
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