In some of my earlier posts, I've been linking to some of the types and brands of Blood Flow Restriction cuffs that are out on the market. There are a lot of pricey options, but if you are looking for some cheaper options to simply test out, there are some other options available. In this post, I've given you some of the main brands available and some cheaper options and if you have used something else before, please let me know, cause I'd be interested to know what poeple have had success with.
Kaatsu Bands
[Image Courtesy kaatsu.com]
Shop Link: https://kaatsu.com/collections/all
These are the original and from my previous posts, this is where BFR originated from even though Kaatsu does distance themselves from the training method. They've spent a long time testing and researching and can understand why the cuffs are so expensive. I honestly have never used them as the cost does seem to be a limiting factor as they do seem to target the medical industry more so, which means individuals are left needing to make a massive payment to gain access. But being the genesis of what we know to be BFR training, we can't create a list of cuffs available without mentioning them.
Pros
- The original and have a lot of research to back up there use
- Noted to be the best quality BFR bands you can get on the market
Cons
- Very expensive
Saga BFR Bands
[Image Courtesy saga.fitness]
Shop Link: https://saga.fitness/products/the-bfr-cuffs
I actually have used these extensively as when I first got into BFR training, I decided to take the leap and paid almost $300AUD for the privilege. They are very well designed and I can see what they are trying to achieve. The cuffs are all automatic, you set the pressure of the cuffs via a blue tooth app connected and they will automatically inflate and deflate when needed. This is really great and the cuffs are really great quality. I did have trouble connecting the cuffs to blue tooth and found a complete charge only lasted me 30 to 40 minutes. When the battery runs out, the cuffs simply deflate on there own. Honestly, even though I have paid a lot for these, I don't use them any more, but they are a good alternative to the more expensive cuffs.
Pros
- Reasonably price
- Fit well and fully wireless
Cons
- Battery life is a little short
- Will not work unless connected to the smart phone app
Hytro
[Image Courtesy hydro.com]
Shop Link: https://hytro.com/collections/all
This is an interesting take on BFR training. They have made shorts and shirts with built in BFR velcro cuffs, with clear markings on how far to tighten these cuffs. They've apparently done a lot of research to validate there work and are targeting professional sports teams. This could be the reason why they're so expensive. Unless they aren't interested in the individual at all. It does mean there are less points that the cuffs could break, although they'd be going through a laundry cycle a lot more than any other cuffs. It's actually a great opportunity for someone out there to undercut and provide a cheaper alternative.
Pros
- Technically would be the best quality as they don't rely on inflatable cuffs, or power supplies
- Easy to use
Cons
- Very expensive for what you are getting
B3 Bands
[Image Courtesy b3sciences.com]
Shop Link: https://b3sciences.com/shop-2/
B3 have a lot of really good information and I refer to there website and videos a lot when I am doing research or looking for details in training. I haven't purchased from B3 before, so I cannot comment specifically on what they offer but they do have a lot of good information and do stand by the quality of the cuffs they are providing. Again, they are inflatable cuffs that require you to manually inflate, which I always worry will not be 100% accurate. If you are interested in using BFR training, it may be worth checking out there website as a good starting point.
Pros
- A lot of good information and videos
- Seem to be good quality and reliable
Cons
- Measure of inflation does not seem to be as accurate
AliExpress
[Image Courtesy AliExpress.com]
I have been using AliExpress for a bulk of my BFR cuffs as they actually have a lot on offer. Some of the cuffs are very basic and perfect if you just want to start out, with some of them being the inflatable types, similar to the ones above, but at a fraction of the price. I use inflatable cuffs about once a week, make note that my first pair I purchased did get an air leak, but the current cuffs I have, have lasted for over a year. I use the manual, velcro cuffs about twice a week and with less moving parts am sure they will last a very long time. It's one of those things that once you get used to working with BFR cuffs, these options on AliExpress become a good option.
Pros
- A lot cheaper but a valid option
Cons
- Quality issues at times
- May not be as accurate
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Exercise involves risk, and what’s appropriate varies by individual health, fitness level, and medical history. Before starting any new exercise programme or training regime, especially if you are pregnant, have a medical condition, are recovering from injury/illness, take medication, or have any concerns, seek approval/advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Stop exercising immediately if you feel unwell or experience pain, dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, and seek medical help where appropriate. Use your judgement, train within your limits, and follow safe technique.
This discussion has centred around some of the brands I'm familiar with, but there are many more. So please reach out and let me know if there are any other brands you would recommend or not recommend.