Compression socks can become very beneficial especially during prolonged periods of activity with short recovery time, such as high intensity functional training modalities.Ī study investigating the effects of compression socks on running performance in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning found that competitive runners wearing low to medium pressure compression socks improved countermovement jump performance post workout suggesting better maintenance of muscle function.
Several studies have shown that compression socks induce positive benefits on muscle fatigue and perceived muscle soreness post workout. The benefits of compression socks on performance come directly from attributed to enhanced biomechanical support of the muscles, leading to higher efficiency and lower metabolic costs at given workloads, reduction of muscular microtrauma and enhanced the proprioception Reduced Muscle Soreness And Fatigue
Therefore, researchers believe that the benefits of wearing compression socks are that they probably protect the eccentric actions of running or smaller muscle oscillations.Ī study found in the Journal Of Strength and Conditioning found an improvement in running performance concomitantly with anaerobic and aerobic thresholds when participants wore compression socks. The support from compression socks and compression therapy increases circulation and provides relief for foot pain, shin splints, muscle inflammation, soreness and helps improve athletic performance.Ī systematic review investigating the effects of compression socks on exercise performance, found that those wearing compression socks during soccer matches, were able to cover more ground and higher distances. Over training your legs can cause stress, fatigue, tension and restrict circulation. One of the main reasons for wearing compression socks during exercise, is the expectation of performance enhancement. Benefits Of Compression Socks Improved Exercise Performance Compression socks reduce the ability of superficial veins to expand and fill with blood, preventing blood flow from creating congestion. Insufficient blood flow can result in diminished returns of blood to the heart, being retained in your legs. Their intention is to promote better blood circulation in the legs. Over time, the athletic community became interested in applying compression socks as a tool to improve performance and exercise recovery.Ĭompression socks are made to gently squeeze around your legs from the knee down.
Studies demonstrated that compression socks improved the venous return by increasing femoral vein blood flow velocity in hospitalized patients. What Are Compression Socks?Ĭompression socks or compression stockings were first introduced as a clinical experiment to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT). We’re going to look at the scientific evidence regarding the specific benefits of compressions socks for athletes, to find out if they’re really worth wearing on your daily run. Studies have shown that compression socks can help benefit improved blood flow and circulation, increase oxygen delivery to the muscles, and remove lactic acid for better exercise recovery. If you’re an avid runner, then I’m willing to bet you’ve heard of compression socks.