Quick link-up today for Tuesday's on the Run... my favorite day of the week!
Today's topic: Compression gear--yay or nay?
For me? It's a total yay. It's so funny to look back when I first started running--I ran in old nikes, no watch, no fancy gear, nothing. And there's nothing wrong with that. But man, I'm so glad for all of the knowledge I've accumulated over the years.
I've never had shin splints or any of the like but once I started getting into longer distance running, I decided it was high time I started taking preventative measures. I bought my first pair of Zensah compression sleeves a couple of years ago and haven't looked back since.
Scientifically do I know all of the benefits? No. But from experience, compression gear a) increases the blood circulation in my legs and my legs feel less fatigued after a long run; b) help my legs recover faster (always a plus) and c) when it's really cold, compression gear keeps my legs warm. ha. (always an added bonus, right?!)
I recently switched over to full compression socks and love them even MORE than my sleeves. I lost my Zensah's and needed a new pair before the Kentucky Derby half I ran recently and after talking with the sales guy, he totally sold me on the socks. Again, this could all be in my head but after the Kentucky Derby half, my legs felt AWESOME. Typically after a half, I get really stiff but after the run, I felt great. Granted, my fitness has greatly improved but I still think it was partly due to the increased compression.
I definitely recommend looking into compression gear, especially if you're starting to get into longer distance running. If nothing else, for the added recovery factor alone.
What about you? Do you wear compression gear? If so, what are your must haves?
Sarah
Wow! First place in the 5k. Congratulations! Those sleeves must really work:) I have used compression socks/sleeves but mostly for recovery. Not sure if it really make a different for me though. I'd like to think that.
ReplyDeleteThank you! :) I'm the same way--it could all be in my head but I always feel better the next day after a tough run. ha.
DeleteI love my compression socks for running long distances and races. They definitely helped me when my calf was injured. I'm less sure about their benefits now that I'm healed and a stronger runner, but I still wear them because I like them. (And I prefer socks to sleeves as I have a wonky ankle and the added support helps.)
ReplyDeleteI like having the added support to! It's a great added bonus. I'm a big fan of the socks after switching over from the sleeves.
DeleteI have a pair of Lily Trotters but haven't taken them out of the bag, yet....oops. Good to know you feel like they've helped, though!
ReplyDeleteIt could totally all be in my head but I do think they've helped! I definitely feel like I recover faster, which is always good thing in the fitness industry. ha. :)
DeleteI don't run in compression gear, but I always wear it for post long run or race recovery.
ReplyDeleteA lot of times I'll wear my socks during the run and then leave them on for a while after. Or if I have a longer distance race coming up, I'll put them on for a while the day before.
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