Compression Tights Research Articles

Tight sportswear and physiological function - Effect on muscle strength and EMG activity -

It has been reported that tight sportswear could have complicated influence on physiological function of human body. The purpose of this present study was to investigate the effect of wearing gradient compression tights (GCT) on muscle strength and EMG activity during repeated isokinetic muscle contractions. Four healthy male undergraduate students performed maximal voluntary isokinetic concentric muscle contractions on biomechanical test and training systems with GCT and loose pants as control (Cont) respectively. During each test, the peak torque of extensor and flexor contractions and the surface electromyography (sEMG) of the rectus femoris and medial gastrocnemius was recorded simultaneously, the peak torque was recorded as an indicator of muscle strength, and the average amplitude and mean power frequency of sEMG were calculated as indicators of EMG activity. The results showed that: the peak torque decreased gradually during continuous muscle contractions both when the Cont and GCT were worn, average sEMG and mean power frequency declined along with the repetitions of muscle contractions for both wearing conditions, and the change tendency was consistence with that of peak torque. There was no obvious difference between the peak torque recorded wearing the Cont or wearing GCT, but when GCT were worn, average sEMG was lower and mean power frequency was higher than the Cont condition. In 24 samples obtained from four subjects, 80% of results showed the same trend. So we could make a conclusion that wearing GCT had no obvious effect on the improvement of muscle strength, but it would affect the EMG activity positivly.

The Effect of Graduated Compression Tights, Compared With Running Shorts, on Counter Movement Jump Performance Before and After Submaximal Running

The purpose of this study was to determine if wearing graduated compression tights, compared with loose fitting running shorts, would increase and or help sustain counter movement jump (CMJ) height after submaximal running. Fourteen competitive runners (6 women and 8 men) participated in this study. The subjects' mean (±SD) for age, height, body mass, percent body fat, resting heart rate, and maximal heart rate were 28.2 ± 14.0 years, 174.7 ± 8.6 cm, 70.2 ± 14.9 kg, 15.5 ± 8.1%, 67.2 ± 7.4 b.min, and 186.5 ± 9.5 b.min, respectively. During testing, subjects wore a Polar RS400 heart rate monitor. Each trial consisted of 15 minutes of continual treadmill running with 5 minutes performed at 50%, 70%, and 85% of the subject's heart rate reserve. Using a Vertec vertical leaper, each subject performed 3 CMJ, both pre- and postrun trials, with the mean value used to measure relative leg power. In addition to the CMJ height data, each subject rated their level of perceived exertion (RPE), and their comfort level, after the postrun trials. The mean postrun CMJ height in graduated compression tights of 60.3 ± 19.4 cm was significantly greater (at the p < 0.05 level) than both the prerun with tights of 57.7 ± 19.4 cm (4.5% increase) and the postrun running shorts of 57.7 ± 19.6 cm (4.5% increase). In addition, the subjects reported a significantly lower level of perceived exertion and greater comfort values while wearing the graduated compression tights. The results of the present study support the use of graduated compression tights for maintenance of lower limb muscle power after submaximal endurance running.

The Effects of Ionized and Nonionized Compression Garments on Sprint and Endurance Cycling

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of ionized and nonionized compression tights on sprint and endurance cycling performance. Using a randomized, blind, crossover design, 10 well-trained male athletes (age: 34.6 ± 6.8 years, height: 1.80 ± 0.05 m, body mass: 82.2 ± 10.4 kg, VO2max: 50.86 ± 6.81 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)) performed 3 sprint trials (30-second sprint at 150% of the power output required to elicit VO2max [pVO2max] + 3 minutes recovery at 40% pVO2max + 30-second Wingate test + 3 minutes recovery at 40% pVO2max) and 3 endurance trials (30 minutes at 60% pVO2max + 5 minutes stationary recovery + 10-km time trial) wearing nonionized compression tights, ionized compression tights, or standard running tights (control). There was no significant effect of garment type on key Wingate measures of peak power (grand mean: 1,164 ± 219 W, p = 0.812), mean power (grand mean: 716 ± 68 W, p = 0.800), or fatigue (grand mean: 66.5 ± 6.9%, p = 0.106). There was an effect of garment type on blood lactate in the sprint and the endurance trials (p < 0.05), although post hoc tests only detected a significant difference between the control and the nonionized conditions in the endurance trial (mean difference: 0.55 mmol·L(-1), 95% likely range: 0.1-1.1 mmol·L(-1)). Relative to control, oxygen uptake (p = 0.703), heart rate (p = 0.774), and time trial performance (grand mean: 14.77 ± 0.74 minutes, p = 0.790) were unaffected by either type of compression garment during endurance cycling. Despite widespread use in sport, neither ionized nor nonionized compression tights had any significant effect on sprint or endurance cycling performance.

Physiological Responses of Ionised and Non-ionised Compression Garments to Sprint and Endurance Cycling

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to examine the effects of ionised and non-ionised compression tights on physiological and performance variables during short-duration sprint and endurance cycling. METHODS: Using a randomised, blind, crossover design, 10 well-trained athletes (triathletes and cyclists) (means ± standard deviation for age and VO2max of the subjects were: 34.6 ± 6.8 years, 50.86 ± 6.81 ml.kg-1.min-1, respectively) performed three power trials (30 s controlled sprint @ 150% pVO2max + 3 min recovery @ 40% pVO2max + 30 s Wingate test) and three endurance trials (30 min at 60% pVO2max + 5 min stationary recovery + 10 km time trial) wearing one of three types of compression tights (ionised, non-ionised, control). Power trials were performed on an electromagnetically-braked cycle ergometer and the endurance trials were completed on a combination of the cycle ergometer and an electromagnetically-braked cycle trainer. Peak power, mean power, rate of fatigue and blood lactate were measured during the power trials and oxygen uptake, heart rate, blood lactate and time trial performance were measured during the endurance trials. RESULTS: There was no significant effect of garment type on key Wingate measures of peak power (grand mean: 1164.44 ± 218.56 W, P = 0.998), mean power (grand mean: 716.45 ± 67.74 W, P = 0.800) or rate of fatigue (grand mean: 66.52 ± 6.88 %, P = 0.106). There was an effect of garment type on blood lactate in the power trials (grand mean: 5.97 ± 3.20 mmol.l-1, P = 0.018). However, post hoc tests were unable to identify where those differences lay. Relative to control, oxygen uptake (grand mean: 34.98 ± 4.66 ml.kg-1.min-1, P = 0.998), heart rate (grand mean: 134 ± 10 b.min-1, P = 0.997), blood lactate (grand mean: 2.11 ± 0.56 mmol.l-1, P = 0.806) and time trial performance (grand mean: 14.77 ± 0.74 min, P = 0.790) were unaffected by either type of compression during endurance cycling. CONCLUSION: Despite widespread use in sport, neither ionised nor non-ionised compression tights have any significant effect on power or endurance cycling.

The Influence of Compression Tights on Markers of Economy for Cross-Country Skiers During Steady-State Running

The Influence of Compression Tights on Markers of Economy for Cross-Country Skiers During Steady-State Running

Effectiveness of Wearing Compression Tights During Short Recovery Periods on Subsequent Cycling Performance

Sports such as cycling may expose athletes to several endurance challenges over time periods ranging from 24-48 hours. In such situations recovery between events is crucial to the success of the athlete. Recently the use of lower body compression garments has been touted as a means to optimize recovery over brief periods of time. PURPOSE: This study was designed to determine if wearing compression tights during short recovery periods effects subsequent cycling performance. METHODS: 5 endurance- trained cyclists (26±3yrs; 73±2kg; 63±4 ml·kg-1·min-1) underwent a graded exercise test to determine VO2max and maximal power output (Wmax). This was followed by 2 experimental trials, each involving a 60 min cycling bout at 65% of Wmax on a Computrainer ergometer (RacerMate, Seattle WA), a 3 hr passive recovery period, and a subsequent 20 min time trial on the Computrainer to determine maximal sustainable power (MSP). Trials were randomized and involved the use (T) or non-use (NT) of lower body compression tights during the 3 hr passive recovery period. Trials were separated by 1 wk. Comparisons between trials were made using a dependent T-test. RESULTS: Time trial results for MSP, mean HR and RPM were similar between T (266±17W; 179±11bpm; 97±14RPM) and NT (267±15W; 178±10bpm; 96±10RPM), respectively. CONCLUSION: Wearing compression tights during a passive recovery period had no effect on subsequent cycling time trial performance compared to passive recovery without compression tights.

The Effects of Compression Garments on Recovery

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether wearing lower-body compression garments attenuate indices of muscle damage and decrements in performance following drop-jump training. Seven trained female and four trained male subjects undertook blood collection for creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), a mid-thigh girth measurement, and reported their perceived muscle soreness (PMS). A series of performance tests were then completed including sprints (5 m, 10 m, and 20 m), a 5-0-5 agility test, and a countermovement jump test. In a randomized crossover experimental design, separated by 1 week, subjects completed 5 x 20 maximal drop-jumps, followed immediately after exercise by either wearing graduated compression tights (CG) or undertook passive recovery as a control (CON) for 48 hours. CK, LDH, mid-thigh girth, and PMS were retested after 24 hours and 48 hours of recovery. The performance tests were repeated after 48 hours of recovery. Analysis of variance for repeated measures indicated that for female subjects, CK values were elevated after 24-hour recovery (p = 0.020) and a greater PMS was observed after 48-hour recovery in the CON condition (p = 0.002) but not for the CG condition. For all the subjects (n = 11), a greater PMS was observed after 48-hour recovery in the CON condition (p = 0.001) but not the CG condition. Significant increases in time were reported for 10-m (p = 0.016, 0.004) and 20-m sprints (p = 0.004, 0.001) in both the CON and CG conditions and for the 5-m sprint (p = 0.014) in the CG condition. All other parameters were unchanged in either condition. Data indicates that CK responses and PMS might be attenuated by wearing compression tights in some participants after drop-jump training; however, no benefit in performance was observed.

Compression Garments And Exercise - The Effect Of Three Different Garments On Endurance Capacity

INTRODUCTION: Compression stockings have become common among endurance athletes in long lasting events such as marathon or ironman triathlon. Several studies examining their effects on exercise as well as recovery indicate a possible performance enhancing influence. Until today the majority of these studies focus on the effects when wearing stockings. Until today no study has investigated the effect on performance and related physiological variables when increasing the amount of compressive area onto the body. PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of three different compression garments on endurance performance and related physiological and psychological variables compared to non compressive textiles. METHODS: 14 male well-trained endurance athletes (age: 27,1±4,8 yrs, height: 183,1±7,6 cm, weight: 76,3±7,6 kg, VO2peak: 63,7±4,9 mL·kg·min-1) performed four maximal endurance tests (TLim) on a treadmill under laboratory conditions. On four occasions, all subjects randomly wore textile with different compressive surface: 1. regular non compressive running gear, 2. compression socks, 3. compression tights and 4. whole body compression (tight&top). During each test TLim, lactic acid concentration (LAC), oxygen uptake (VO2), blood gas analysis (BGA), perceived muscle soreness and changes in general perception were measured. RESULTS: Neither time to exhaustion (TLim), nor physiological variables (VO2, LAC, BGA) were changed under compression clothing. These results are supported by the psychological data revealing no statistical differences (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: For the first time the effects of increasing the amount of compressive surface vs non compression on endurance capacity was evaluated. The results of this study revealed no beneficial effects neither on endurance performance nor on performance affecting variables like VO2 or LAC when wearing compressive textile.

224 A randomized, crossover study of low ankle pressure graduated compression tights (skins™) in reducing in-flight ankle oedema

224 A randomized, crossover study of low ankle pressure graduated compression tights (skins™) in reducing in-flight ankle oedema

Compression élastique externe et fonction musculaire chez l'homme

Aims This article reviews the actual knowledge about the use of compression tights and stockings and their effects on muscle haemodynamics during exercise. Current knowledge Some questions are still remaining regarding repeated muscular exercise-induced deleterious effects on veins' shears and valves. These effects can be diminished with the use of compression tights or stockings, in order to enhance venous function and improve muscle haemodynamics. Points of view and plans The use of compression tights in running activity does not seem to directly enhance the performance per se, but has an effect on muscle function during and after an exercise. This could in part account for a possible decrease in recovery times. Further studies are needed to evaluate the positive effects of these tights during and after an exercise. Conclusion Regarding venous function and muscle haemodynamics the use of compression tights is beneficial. However, in order to avoid high pressure deleterious effects, healthy subjects' vascular physiology has to be taken into account when developing compression tights.

Aerobic Energy Cost and Sensation Responses During Submaximal Running Exercise — Positive Effects of Wearing Compression Tights

Aerobic Energy Cost and Sensation Responses During Submaximal Running Exercise — Positive Effects of Wearing Compression Tights

Aerobic Energy Cost and Sensation Responses During Submaximal Running Exercise - Positive Effects of Wearing Compression Tights

This study aimed to examine the effects of wearing compression compared to classic elastic tights and conventional shorts (control trial) on oxygen cost and sensation responses during submaximal running exercise. In part I, aerobic energy cost was evaluated in six trained runners at 10, 12, 14, and 16 km x h(-1). In part II, the increase in energy cost over time (i. e., slow component expressed as difference in VO2 values between min 2 and end-exercise) was determined in six trained runners at a constant running pace corresponding to 80% of maximal VO2 for 15 min duration. All tests were performed on a 200-m indoor track with equivalent thermal stress conditions. VO2 was determined with a portable metabolic system (Cosmed K4b2, Rome, Italy) during all testing sessions. Runners were asked their ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and perceptions for clothing sweating, comfort, and whole thermal sensations following each trial. Results showed in part I a significant lower energy cost only at 12 km x h(-1) by wearing compression and elastic tights compared to conventional shorts. During part II, wearing compression tights decreased significantly VO2 slow component by 26 and 36% compared to elastic tights and conventional shorts, respectively. There were no differences in sweating and comfort sensations, RPE, and for whole thermal sensation between clothing conditions in parts I and II. Wearing compression tights during running exercise may enhance overall circulation and decrease muscle oscillation to promote a lower energy expenditure at a given prolonged submaximal speed.