Improvements in strength in older people can be brought about using progressive resistance training, using intensities in excess of 75% 1 repetition-maximum (1RM). Studies in young people have shown that low intensity (20-50% 1RM) resistance training with blood flow restriction enhances the gains in strength compared to resistance training alone (Takarada et al, 2000). However, the effect of resistance training with blood flow restriction in older people is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of resistance training combined with blood flow restriction on strength parameters of older people. 11 untrained participants (68(2)yr,170(7)cm,78(8)kg)volunteered for the study which had ethics approval. Participants trained 3 days per week for 4 weeks consisting of 3 sets of dynamic calf plantar-flexion to failure with 1 min rest. Both limbs were trained at 25% 1RM, one without and the other with blood flow restriction (110 mmHg) above the knee. 1RM, MVC and isokinetic torque (30, 60 & 120°.sec) were measured pre- and post-training. Statistical analysis were performed using a repeated measures two way (time x limb) ANOVA. Data are expressed as means ± standard deviation (SD). 1 RM was similar between limbs at baseline however the increase was greater in the restricted limb compared with normal blood flow (14 vs. 4%, respectively, P<0.01). MVC increased to a greater extent following resistance training with blood flow restriction compared to normal blood flow (18% vs. 4%, respectively P<0.01). Isokinetic torque at 30°.sec increased (P<0.01) by 20% compared to no change in restricted and normal, respectively. Isokinetic torque increased by 17% and 4% for the restricted and normal blood flow limbs at 60°.s-1 (main effect for time, P<0.01) and similarly by 11% and 3% at 120°.s-1 (main effect for time, P<0.01), for restricted and normal blood flow, respectively, with no differences between limbs at either speed. We have demonstrated that 4 weeks resistance training at 25% 1RM with blood flow restriction increases strength in older people by a greater extent compared to resistance training alone. Low intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction may be of benefit to individuals who cannot perform high weight loads, such as frail elderly people.