You might be wondering what compression gear is used for…and if it really works.
Compression gear, whether it be tights, shorts, socks, etc., is becoming increasingly popular among serious athletes and gym goers alike. That’s because it can help you reap serious benefits during your workouts–here’s why:
Reduced injury
Compression gear helps reduce the risk of strains. In addition to this, if you already have a strain, compression gear can aid in recovery.
Compression gear supports your muscles and keeps them in place, aiding in preventing certain injuries. It also helps to keep your muscles from fatiguing during your training session. When you’re fatigued, you’re more likely to sustain an injury.
Temperature regulation is also a bonus of compression gear. So is skin protection–say goodbye to irritating and uncomfortable chafing. These things may seem small, but not having to worry about how hot or cold you are, and that annoying friction of your clothing will keep your head in the game, focused on the workout, which in turn reduces risk of injury as well.
Muscle soreness and recovery
If you often suffer from muscle soreness after a workout, we feel you. Sometimes delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) can be so painful that it deters you from working out further. According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, compression gear is a great way to reduce DOMS.
Compression gear can help manage swelling of the joints after intense workouts. This is because the gear helps distribute synovial fluid. Synovial fluid helps ‘lubricate’ the joints, which in turn prevents swelling/soreness.
Increased power and exertion
Who doesn’t want to increase their power and exertion during a workout?
When you're training intensely, whether it be at the gym or for a specific event or race, it's beneficial to have lower perceived exertion (a more effortless workout). According to a study done by Sports Medicine, compression gear helped improve perceived exertion in endurance runners.
If you want to up your game at the gym, consider investing in some compression gear. GoodLife Fitness members receive 25 percent off at 2XU through the GoodLife Rewards Program.