Kaatsu

**Kaatsu** (also written *KAATSU*) is a training method that uses **blood flow restriction (BFR)** during exercise. In simple terms: you wear a **specialized cuff or band** around your arm or leg that **partially restricts blood flow** while you work out. ### What it’s used for * Build **muscle strength and size** using **very light weights** * Speed up **rehab and recovery** * Reduce joint stress compared to heavy lifting Because blood leaving the muscle is restricted, the muscle “thinks” it’s working much harder than it actually is. That triggers muscle growth and strength adaptations even at low loads. ### Where it comes from * Developed in **Japan in the 1960s** * “Kaatsu” roughly means **“added pressure”** ### Common applications * Physical therapy & injury rehab * Athletic training * Older adults who can’t lift heavy * Some medical and clinical settings