Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in electromyographic activity with the use of gradual compression stockings (GCSs) on middle-distance endurance athletes’ performance, based on surface electromyography measurement techniques. Sixteen well-trained athletes were recruited (mean ± SD: age 33.4 ± 6.3 years, VO2max 63.7 ± 6.3 mL·kg−1·min−1, maximal aerobic speed 19.7 ± 1.5 km·h). The athletes were divided into two groups and were assigned in a randomized order to their respective groups according to their experience with the use of GCSs. Initially, a maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) test was performed to standardize the athletes’ running speeds for subsequent tests. Afterward, electromyographic activity, metabolic, and performance variables for each group were measured with surface electromyography. In addition, blood lactate concentration was measured, both with and without GCSs, during 10 min at 3% above VT2 (second ventilatory threshold), all of which were performed on the track. Next, surface electromyography activity was measured during a 1 km run at maximum speed. No significant changes were found in electromyography activity, metabolic and performance variables with GCSs use (p > 0.164) in any of the variables measured. Overall, there were no performance benefits when using compression garments against a control condition.
Highlights
Graduated compression stockings (GCSs) are socks that create a compressive pressure around the muscle, bone, and connective tissue, with this pressure higher in the ankle area and gradually decreasing until the knee [1]
The aim of this study is to evaluate changes in electromyographic activity with the use of the use of gradual compression stockings (GCSs) on middle-distance endurance athletes’ performance, based on surface electromyography measurement techniques
According to effect sizes the electromyographic activity was greater in the calf musculature when not using GCSs while running at submaximal effort, while descriptive changes were observed in effect size (ES)
Summary
Graduated compression stockings (GCSs) are socks that create a compressive pressure around the muscle, bone, and connective tissue, with this pressure higher in the ankle area and gradually decreasing until the knee [1]. Compression garments were originally used to treat deep vein thrombosis [2] and venous insufficiencies [1,3]. Several studies have demonstrated an increase in the venous velocity, a reduction of venous pooling, and improvement in venous return in hospital patients who wore GCSs [1,4]. There are no significant changes in heart rate associated with the use of GCSs in endurance events, [5,6,7,8] the interest in the sports sciences field in GCS application and commercialization is highly increasing [9]. A decrease in the concentration of metabolites associated with compression garment use may have benefits during submaximal running efforts [10]. Berry and McMurray [11] hypothesized that a Sensors 2020, 20, 1268; doi:10.3390/s20051268 www.mdpi.com/journal/sensors
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
