How Low-Volume Suji Training Reduced Knee Pain in Elite Rugby Players

A new case study on professional rugby players shows how training with Suji reduced anterior knee pain while boosting jump performance. With just 10–20% load, athletes experienced less pain and greater power—proving that relief doesn’t have to come at the cost of performance.

How Low-Volume Suji Training Reduced Knee Pain in Elite Rugby Players

Knee pain is one of the most frustrating issues for athletes. It limits training, reduces performance, and makes even simple movements uncomfortable. Traditional solutions often require long rest periods or high-volume rehab programs that can leave athletes fatigued and set back their progress.

A recent case study with professional rugby players offers a different path forward: low-volume blood flow restriction (BFR) training with Suji.

The Study

Seven elite male rugby union players with a history of anterior knee pain took part in the trial. Each player performed between 2 and 21 sessions (average of 12) using Suji’s targeted compression system.

The protocol included:

  • Exercises: Leg extensions and decline squats

  • Load: Just 10–20% of one-rep max

  • Pressure: 50% limb occlusion pressure

  • Format: 4x10 reps, 20-second rest, 160 seconds occlusion per set

Pre- and post-session testing included both subjective pain scores and jump performance metrics.

The Results

The impact was clear:

  • Pain reduction on single-leg squat and hop tests

  • Increase in countermovement jump (CMJ) height

  • Improved CMJ peak power and concentric mean force

In other words, the players not only felt less pain but also performed better.

Why It Matters

Previous research shows that high-volume BFR can reduce pain, but it often causes fatigue. This study is different. It demonstrates that low-volume BFR can deliver meaningful pain relief and muscle performance gains without the downsides of heavy fatigue.

For elite athletes—and anyone managing chronic knee pain—this means Suji can provide immediate relief and long-term support without derailing training.

Suji’s Role in Recovery and Performance

Suji’s Targeted Compression Technology (TCT) makes this type of training accessible beyond the lab and into everyday routines. In less than 10 minutes, athletes can warm up smarter, protect their joints, and strengthen weak muscles with a safe, science-backed method.

With consistent use, Suji delivers:

  • Instant pain relief in just one session

  • Noticeable improvements in as few as 10 sessions

  • Stronger, more durable muscles in as little as 8 weeks

The Takeaway

For athletes battling stubborn knee pain, this case study offers hope. With Suji, relief doesn’t have to come at the cost of performance. Instead, players can move with less pain, build lasting strength, and play harder.