Compression for Athletic Recovery
What the research says
While compression gear worn during exercise doesn’t seem to affect performance, these garments do seem to be impactful for athletic recovery. One meta-analysis found significant recovery benefits when wearing compression garments after exercise (from 2-8 hours post-exercise and after 24 hours), particularly after resistance training. Another study found that compression socks worn between 24-48 hours post-exercise improve recovery markers, which researchers note may enhance subsequent athletic performance. Another expert notes that the compression garments must be worn continuously for 24 hours to be effective (though most experts recommend removing them before you go to bed).
WHO USES COMPRESSION
It has been reported that athletes such LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Naomi Osaka, and Sabrina Ionescu use compression boots to support recovery. The U.S. National Field Hockey Team apparently wears compression socks and 2023 USA Mountain Runner of the Year, Joseph Gray wears compressive calf sleeves.
POPULAR COMPRESSION TECHNOLOGIES
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Hyperice Normatec are a popular option for compression boots. These boots cost $799 on Amazon. Buy Normatec on Amazon | Buy Normatec on Hyperice
If you don't want to drop this much dough, Fit King also makes a highly-rated version that sells for $359 on Amazon.
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Here are the compression sleeves that Joseph Gray endorses: GO Sleeves
Sockwell makes high-quality compression socks for Men and for Women.