Abstract
Compression and temperature manipulation are discussed as strategies to improve performance markers and recovery in sports. Here, we investigate the effects of compression stockings made with fabric, either combined or not with heating and cooling substances, on variables related to running performance and recovery. Ten trained runners (mean ± standard deviation age 45 ± 9 years old, body mass 69 ± 7 kg, height 166 ± 4 cm) with no experience of using compression garments performed an intense running session of 10 km, then wore a stocking for 24 h (randomized; without compression, compression, compression with camphor, and compression with menthol), and were evaluated on the following day, after running 5 km. The different types of compression stockings used 24 h before exercise did not affect running kinematics (p > 0.14), skin temperature (p > 0.05), heart rate (p > 0.12; mean value of maximal heart rate 156 bpm), comfort perception (p = 0.13; mean value of 7/10 points), or perception of recovery (p = 0.13; mean value of 7/10 points). In general, there were no effects of 24 h pre-exercise lower leg compression, including those treated with menthol and camphor applications on running kinematics, skin temperature, heart rate, or recovery perception in athletes undertaking consecutive running exercises.
Highlights
Athletes are interested in compression garments to improve athletic capacity and exercise recovery, but there is still a lack of evidence regarding their biomechanics and comforting effects
The pressure applied by sports compression garments is significantly affected by garment type, size, and body posture [24]
To minimize these effects and limitations, we tested a control garment of similar size and color characteristics as the compression stockings and matched the size to the size recommended to each participant
Summary
Athletes are interested in compression garments to improve athletic capacity and exercise recovery, but there is still a lack of evidence regarding their biomechanics and comforting effects. Hip and thigh compression may influence the performance of jump landing tasks due to decreased dynamic valgus in the landing [3] and reduced sagittal plane range of motion for the hip joint [4]. Such results have been reported as dependent on reduced muscle oscillation, improved force production [5], and joint stiffness [6]. Previous studies suggested a compression effect on important kinematics characteristics of articular movements. These effects could be interpreted as useful for injury prevention
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