| The Compression Advantage |
The benefits of using compression wear.
Australian high-jumper Claire Mallett wears skins every day for training, competition, and travel.
Compression wear acts as a support system enhancing blood flow, controlling body temperature, reducing fatigue, and improving synchronicity among functioning muscle groups. Think of the functional use of a tensor bandage as it supports an injured muscle or tendon. A tight fit does not mean the apparel provides compression. Compression wear uses specific materials and stitching to isolate muscle groups and provides graduated compression from the ankle to the thigh for maximum blood return to the heart. Measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), a medical-grade stocking may have up to fifty mmHg, whereas a training tight may have as little as ten mmHg. Too much compression may be constricting and too little may serve no purpose. The level of compression depends on the goal of the athlete and is sport specific. For the multisport athlete compression wear has its place in three major elements: training, recovery, and race day. TrainingOften comprised of long hours on the bike, intense hill workouts, or the essential “brick” workout, the main goal of any training session is to maximize work effort with minimal overtraining. Using fabric “paneling,” compression wear acts as a suspension system for muscles, producing greater efficiency and delayed fatigue. Gradual compression has more compression at the ankle than the thigh and assists the veins and muscles of the lower leg to return blood to the heart to be reoxygenated, resulting in efficient long rides, stronger long runs, and greater recovery for the next day of training. Made of the best materials for moisture wicking and temperature control, today’s compression wear is versatile in hot and cold temperatures working with the body to prevent overheating and keep muscles warm for a more efficient warm-up and cool-down session. A medium to high grade of compression is best during training sessions, as this is when workload is the highest and the athlete wants the greatest benefit from each workout. It is the athlete’s preference to wear tights, shorts, or socks during training.RecoveryMany athletes wear compression socks and tights at work, while sleeping, and during prolonged travel. The advantage is increased blood flow to muscles, improved circulation, reduced blood pooling in the lower leg, and reduced risk of deep vein thrombosis. Athletes claim their muscles “just feel better.” Race dayAs with any other element, race day is not the time to try compression for the first time. Compression offers the greatest benefit worn during training and recovery. If the athlete has used compression wear throughout the year, however, there is no reason why it cannot be part of race day to delay fatigue and maximize performance. A light compression is best for race day for its lightweight features and comfort.Before one goes out to buy this breakthrough in athletic apparel, there are a couple factors to consider, namely, fit and purpose. Tights are best for training and recovery, while socks and shorts might be better suited for racing. Perhaps the most important factor is fit. Although many brands use height and weight tables to customize fit, nothing is better than trying different brands and styles to find what suits you best. Attributes of Top Compression Wear Brands
About the AuthorChristine A. Kasturi, B.Sc., is a triathlete, yoga instructor, and nutrition and wellness specialist. Kasturi has done extensive research in the area of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and athletic performance. She has formed a charity for its awareness and can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . |
Peter makes this comment
Thu 16 Jul 2009 22:11:40 PDT