Michael MacPherson: Pressure That Performs: BFR for Elite Adaptations

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by Michael MacPherson to discuss BFR training (Blood flow restriction) adaptations, including endurance gains and other physiological considerations.

Dr. Michael MacPherson’s diverse background in college athletics, education, coaching, and surgical consulting has given him a unique perspective on human performance, rehabilitation, and recovery. His work spans from training high-level athletes to helping individuals regain function after surgery—all with a focus on optimizing results through innovative methods like Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training. Dr. MacPherson has worked with individuals across the lifespan, from children as young as three to adults in their nineties.

His passion for health and performance began as a collegiate football player at Michigan Technological University. After his playing career ended, he transitioned into strength and conditioning, coaching at both Michigan Tech and the University of Toledo. He then spent a decade teaching and coaching at the high school level, where he built a speed and strength program that expanded to serve athletes from elementary school through high school. He also began virtual training, programming, and consulting, working with teams and athletes.

After 10 years in the weight room, Dr. MacPherson shifted his focus to sports medicine, working as a surgical consultant in the operating room. Observing procedures like ACL reconstructions, meniscus repairs, rotator cuff repairs, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) corrections, and lateral ankle reconstructions firsthand, he became increasingly focused on rehabilitation strategies tailored to each surgery and patient.

It was in the operating room that he discovered Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training and its ability to enhance recovery, build strength, and accelerate rehabilitation with minimal mechanical stress. Once he understood the benefits of BFR, there was no turning back. He has since dedicated himself to educating thousands of athletic trainers, physical therapists, and strength coaches on the science and application of BFR. Recognizing that education is a major barrier preventing many from utilizing this powerful tool, he has immersed himself in research and outreach to bridge the gap between science and practice.

For more on Michael, be sure to check out clinicalbfr.com and @clinicalbfr and @dr_macpherson on Instagram!

*SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order!

**Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com

***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model.

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