Introduction: Boxing demands explosive punching force, yet heavy resistance training risks joint stress and fatigue. Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) offers a low-load alternative that stimulates strength and power gains. This randomized controlled trial investigated BFRT`s effects on upper limb strength and punching force in elite amateur boxers, aiming to establish its value as a safe, performance-enhancing strategy. Methods: Thirty elite male amateur boxers (=3 years of competitive experience) were randomized into an experimental group (BFRT) or a control group. Both groups completed identical upper-body resistance exercises thrice weekly for 8 weeks, The control group trained at 50%-60% 1RM (one repetition maximum), while the BFRT group trained at 20%-30% 1 RM with 40%-50% limb occlusion pressure using standardized 7 cm cuffs. Primary outcomes included 1RM, strength (elbow flexion, extension, bench press) and peak punch force (jab, cross, uppercut, hook) measured via a calibrated vertically-mounted force plate. Results: After 8 weeks, the BFRT group demonstrated significantly greater gains in dominant-arm strength, with 1RM elbow flexion increasing by +3.3 kg (p < 0.001, d = 3.20), elbow extension by +2.95 kg (p < 0.001, d = 2.84), bench press by +13.6 kg (p < 0.001, d = 1.81), and squat by +15.6 kg (p < 0.001, d = 2.05) compared with smaller improvements in controls. Peak Punch force improved markedly in the BFRT group: jab +895 N (p = 0.001, d = 1.52), uppercut +1142 N (p < 0.001, d = 3.02), hook +1157 N (p < 0.001, d = 2.55), and cross +1067 N (p < 0.001, d = 3.80). Repeated-measures ANOVA confirmed strong group × time interaction effects (n2 = 0.27-0.87). Conclusion: BFRT led to substantial improvements in upper limb strength and peak punching force in elite boxers using a low-load protocol. These findings suggest BFRT is a safe, effective training strategy that may enhance sport-specific power outputs while potentially reducing joint stress, making it a valuable addition to high-performance boxing programs.
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