The type of muscle weariness that develops from prolonged standing or walking is lessened by wearing compression stockings. Athletes can benefit greatly from them as well. One of the largest barriers to optimal performance for athletes is muscle discomfort and a sluggish recovery after training sessions. Fortunately, sports compression socks may help athletes perform better and speed up muscle recovery.
Getting Started with Sports Compression Socks
Sports compression socks come in a variety of lengths and supports. Compression stockings typically extend over the top of the thighs, whereas compression socks typically stop at the knee. A variety of levels of tightness are available for socks with additional compression. The amount of pressure they deliver is expressed in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), the same unit used to measure blood pressure. The best compression for athletes is between 20 and 30 mmHg in socks or stockings. Sports compression stockings and socks with more support are worn by athletes to encourage quick muscle recovery.
Running with Compression Socks
Running compression socks are getting more and more common. This type of sock can lessen muscle weariness by improving blood flow to the leg muscles, according to scientific studies. Moreover, socks with additional compression help muscles remove lactic acid from them more quickly after a workout.
Cycling Compression Socks
Both competitive and non-competitive cyclists have found use for cycling compression stockings. Muscle fatigue is a limiting factor for cyclists, just like it is for runners. Compression socks for cyclists increase performance by enhancing blood flow to the calves, ankles, and feet. The muscles that support the knee can also benefit from taller socks with progressive pressure. In a 2004 study, thigh-high compression stockings increased cycling performance and reduced muscle recovery time in 12 senior males. Cycling compression stockings were worn by cyclists of various ages, and researchers observed similar outcomes in each group.
Muscular exhaustion recovery
Because enhanced circulation that occurs with compression helps lessen muscular swelling, edoema (fluid retention), and general pain, sports compression socks and stockings shorten athletes’ recovery times. Also, this type of specialty sock tends to hasten the removal of lactic acid from troubled muscles. It is best to speak with a doctor before using sports compression stockings or socks for the first time to ensure you select the optimal level of compression and the proper style of sock—ideally one designed specifically for athletic efforts.