Exercise Made Easier

What is blood flow restriction training (BFR)? While it may sound scary, this safe and evidence-based technique can help participants to gain strength and fitness benefits typically associated with higher-intensity exercise without heavy weights. This novel technique offers great potential benefits to older adults, who may be seeking to improve their strength, mobility or balance while exercising at a lower intensity. 

The specific effects of BFR on strength, mobility and balance will be explored through a 3-part workshop series. Join Daniela Presta, Emma Sarrazin, and Emma Chen (PhD candidates in the Bergdahl Lab in Concordia’s Department of Health, Kinesiology & Applied Physiology) as they guide you through their work, as well as a brief exercise sessions, during which you will be invited to try BFR.

Explore the video installation "Dance for Health - Accessibility & Aging: A walking gallery of dance for health projects across Canada and beyond." Wacth videos from dance schools and researchers who study health benefits of dance for older adults across the world discuss their work, leading viewers through a brief dance routine. 

Please wear appropriate exercise clothes, bring running shoes, a water bottle and a snack. If you participate in the exercise workshop either in-person or online, you are doing so at your own discretion and are encouraged to pace yourself accordingly!

How can you participate? Join us in person or online by registering for the Zoom Meeting or watching live on YouTube.

Have questions? Send them to info.4@concordia.ca

Daniela Presta

Dani is a PhD candidate in the Department of Health, Kinesiology & Applied Physiology at Concordia University. A FKQ certified Kinesiologist working at Constance Lethbridge, she is interested in how blood flow restriction training (BFR) can be used in rehabilitation settings, specifically with Parkinson’s disease Through her work, she has received several awards, including the prestigious Master’s training scholarship from Canadian Institute for Health Research/Instituts de recherche en santé du Canada.  

Emma Sarrazin

Emma S. is a masters student in the Department of Health, Kinesiology & Applied Physiology at Concordia University. Her work focuses on the effects of blood flow restriction on flexibility and range of motion in older adults practicing yoga. Emma has presented research findings at various conferences in Canada and the USA and gained an award from the American College of Sports Medicine – Greater New York Chapter.

Emma Hsiaowen Chen

Emma C. is a PhD candidate in the Department of Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology at Concordia University. As a former dancer, she is interested in how dance, combined with blood flow restriction, can be used to improve the balance of older adults and reduce their risk of falls. Alongside her research, Emma is a passionate dance teacher having worked with several non-for-profit recreation centres across Ontario and Quebec. She also serves on the governing board of engAGE, a research community committed to advancing collaborative research to address the complex needs of an aging population.