“Anyone can train
hard. Do you have the discipline to
recover?”
~Lauren Fleshman
Faster recovery and less muscle cramps? Yes, please.
I’ve been using compression socks and calf sleeves for a
number of years now and have tried a variety of brands. As a toe runner, I’ve always had trouble with
my calves being super sore after hard efforts and sometimes even cramping
during races. I started wearing
compression socks and then switched over to calf sleeves so I was able to wear
the sock of my choice—and also I loved being able to slip on flip flips after
my run while still wearing the sleeves!
I was recently introduced to the 2XU brand as a BibRave Pro
ambassador and have been impressed. In
fact, practically lived in their HYOPTIK Thermal Compression Tights during my
Houston Marathon training this winter!
While I’ve found that some brands seem to focus a little more on colors
and fashion, 2XU compression gear is designed with the right amount of
compression in the areas that you need it most, like your shins and calf
muscles through their graduated, panel zones and unique technology.
When do I wear compression?
I wear compression on BEFORE races, on travel days, at the
airport, on the plane and walking around the expo.
I wear compression DURING races, speed work and long runs—and
sometimes even trail running in the summer to keep ticks off
and prevent scratches from nasty bushes and branches.
I also wear compression immediately AFTER races, speed work,
long run, and sometimes even under my work pants on the days following a hard
effort.
What are the benefits of compression?
·
Increased blood flow to muscles
·
Decrease lactic acid build up
·
Decrease muscle fatigue
·
Reduce muscle soreness
·
Prevent cramps
How does compression work?
So it’s a known fact that blood tends to pool in your lower
legs, mainly due to gravity. Essentially
the idea behind compression socks or sleeves is that it applies pressure bringing
more oxygen to the muscles and increasing blood flow. It’s also said to squeeze out all the bad,
toxic waste (like lactic acid). Another
theory suggests that compression socks and sleeves also decreases the vibration
from impact—which could be a major cause of delayed onset muscle soreness.
Is it really all in your head?
There is an ongoing debate about compression gear because
there is really no scientific evidence to support that compression gear
enhances performance. However, the
perceived benefits are huge. I
personally don’t feel that wearing compression gear will make me run faster
times but I do believe that all the little things adds up. Faster recovery and less cramping may truly be
all in my head but as long as they feel good and I believe in their recovery
powers, I will continue to wear them!
Give compression a try!
I’d love to know what you think.
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