Compression garments are made possible by the use of the latest materials and modern production methods. Initially, it was used for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes, but over time, it became increasingly used in sports. Nowadays, compression underwear is a popular and familiar type of clothing for athletes.
Even in the days of Ancient Egypt, in order to relieve fatigue and reduce swelling, warriors and slaves pulled their legs with strips of skin or tissue that fixed muscles and tendons. Such bandages allowed to increase endurance on long hikes.
With the development of technology and the advent of materials that include polyurethane fibers, the first garments with a compression effect began to be created. Modern compression garments are made of special elastic materials and fit the body tightly, supporting it and increasing the efficiency of movement.
The principle of the impact of compression sportswear
Translated from English, the word "compression" (compression) means compression or squeezing. Compression garments work on this principle. Pressure of varying strength in certain places of the body and limbs makes it easier for the circulatory system.
When the blood moves through the blood vessels, it overcomes several valves on its way, pushing it up from the lower extremities, which prevents it from stagnating below. If the human body is at rest or is exposed to weak physical activity, the vessels do not undergo any changes.
When jogging, the cardiovascular system is under great stress, which causes the valves to malfunction. As a result, the vessels lose their shape, the veins swell, edema appears, and thrombosis develops. Therefore, athletes have long understood that it is better to use compression underwear for comfortable sports. It, thanks to the effect on the limbs by compression, helps the vessels to function without interruption.
If the equipment is designed correctly, then it effectively distributes the loads on the body parts. Closer to the knee, the compression is usually weaker than in the foot or ankle, because more force is required to flow upward from the foot than from the knee.
Why do you need compression underwear
Taking into account the heavy loads during running, the use of compression underwear by women is especially important.
The benefits of compression garments are obvious:
- fatigue decreases;
- exposure increases;
- blood circulation is normalized;
- muscle tension and pain are reduced;
- the energy consumption of athletes is optimized;
- reduced muscle vibration;
- the risk of seizures decreases;
- the risk of micro-rupture is reduced, preventing more serious injuries;
- provides support for muscles, tendons and ligaments;
- there is a rapid recovery after intense exercise;
- the strength of movements increases;
- an aesthetic function is performed that helps to achieve the desired shapes and reliefs.
Thanks to the tight fit, the compression garment gives the runner a better control over every movement. Numerous studies have shown that the average heart rate of athletes wearing compression underwear is slightly lower than their counterparts in regular clothing.
In addition, all sorts of observations of athletes were carried out, which proved the effectiveness of using compression underwear:
- Scientists at the University of Auckland (New Zealand), as a result of observing athletes in a 10 km race, found that the number of participants who ran in normal sportswear and the next day experienced a feeling of pain in the shin area was 93%. Of the runners who wore compression socks, only 14% experienced this pain.
- Experts from the University of Exeter (UK) tested athletes by repeating a set of strength exercises accompanied by painful sensations. The test results showed that wearing underwear with the effect of compression for 24 hours after training improved the endurance indicators of athletes and reduced their pain.
- Separately, I would like to emphasize that compression underwear is highly breathable, and its seams are treated in a special way. Therefore, this type of clothing contributes to the fact that women feel comfortable at any ambient temperature and stay in good shape longer.
Types of compression underwear for women
The modern industry produces various types of sports underwear with a compression effect. It is made from synthetic hypoallergenic fabrics, thanks to which the skin of athletes can "breathe" freely:
- T-shirts
- T-shirts
- Tops
They support a woman's breasts, thereby protecting her from shock, bruising or deformation. Reliable chest fixation allows women to feel comfortable while running or jumping. From the aesthetic point of view, such clothes effectively emphasize the beautiful forms of muscles and the athletic relief of the body.
- Tights
- Leggings
- Shorts
- Underpants
Protect knees and ligaments from sprains, and also fix the hip region without squeezing or causing discomfort. Perfectly maintains body temperature, effectively removes moisture and speeds up the recovery process after jogging.
- Gaiters
- Socks
- Knee socks
Promotes the rapid elimination of lactic acid, which reduces the feeling of pain after exercise. They fix and protect muscles and ligaments from stretching and vibration. While running, the legs are protected from varicose veins and “heavy” legs syndrome.
- Overalls are a versatile option for sports.
Due to the fact that compression garments are made of synthetic fabrics, they require careful maintenance.
Primary requirements:
- wash after each workout on a gentle mode at a temperature not exceeding 30 ° C;
- ironing is prohibited.
Such care measures allow you to maintain the original shape and compression properties of the linen.
Manufacturers of compression underwear for women
In the vastness of our country, you can buy lingerie for sports from the main leading companies, specializing in the production of clothing with a compression effect:
- Puma
- 2XU
- Nike
- Skins
- CEP
- Compressport
- Asics
These brands have different lines of sports compression clothing:
- perfomance - for active activities;
- refresh - for recovery;
- x-form is mixed.
Technological teams of the companies are constantly improving the cut of products and characteristics of fabrics. Most of the garments are made from PWX fabric.
Its main advantages are density, strength, elasticity, durability, comfort, antibacterial protection, good ventilation, a high degree of protection against ultraviolet radiation and a relatively low weight.
How to choose sports compression underwear
It is worth choosing sports underwear with a compression effect taking into account the place and weather conditions under which the training takes place. In summer, in spite of the heat, running in the "compression" will be much more comfortable and efficient than in ordinary sportswear. In winter, it should be worn under warm outerwear. In any case, the necessary microclimate for the body will be provided.
In addition, you need to consider which muscle group is most susceptible to stress during training. For runners, it is recommended to purchase almost all types of equipment: T-shirts or T-shirts, leggings or leggings, leggings or knee-highs.
Choosing the right size is very important when shopping for compression garments. Each manufacturer has its own dimensional grid. It is necessary to accurately measure the body and, according to the parameters obtained, select the desired size.
It is not recommended to take underwear one size smaller - in this case, the effect will be exactly the opposite. It must be remembered that the body must maintain its flexibility, and jogging must bring joy and comfort.
For aesthetic satisfaction, manufacturers produce "compression" with the same characteristics in different colors - monochromatic or combined with inserts of a different color. Designers use colored piping, spectacular inscriptions and prints in the decoration. All this makes compression underwear not only useful for sports, but also beautiful. So each runner can choose a set or individual piece of clothing to her liking.
The cost
Considering all the advantages of sportswear with a compression effect, made from specially designed fabrics, it is not difficult to guess that its cost is quite high.
The approximate average price to be guided by:
- tops - 1600-2200 rubles;
- T-shirts - 1800-2500 rubles;
- short-sleeved t-shirts - 2200-2600 rubles,
- long sleeve t-shirts - 4500 rubles;
- shorts - 2100-3600 rubles;
- leggings - 5300-6800 rubles;
- overalls - 8,100-10,000 rubles;
- socks - 2000 rubles;
- leggings - 2100-3600 rubles.
The above prices are approximate, because products of the same category differ not only by the manufacturer, but also by the sewing technology, composition and characteristics of the fabric used.
Where can one buy
The best way to find and purchase equipment for women is through the Internet. Each company has its own online store with a detailed description of the models, a large selection of sizes and colors.
Some online stores sell products of several brands, which allows you to choose the right option, taking into account your requirements and financial capabilities, without leaving your home.
In ordinary stores, such clothes can only be purchased from departments specializing in the sale of sports equipment, but the choice there usually leaves much to be desired.
In large cities, shops selling compression underwear for athletes have been opened, but the model range and price range are significantly inferior in their variety to online stores.
In conclusion, I would like to note that compression equipment is more suitable for professional athletes. Ordinary people who lead an active lifestyle and devote 2-3 hours a week to sports do not need to spend money on expensive underwear.
But for real athletes, whether it's training or recovery after it, clothes with a compression effect will be indispensable.
Reviews of athletes
During training, I run on a dirt road in the forest. I used CEP leggings and felt nothing. But when I ran on the asphalt, the difference with and without gaiters was noticeable - my legs began to “hammer” more slowly, although usually it is harder for me to run on an asphalt road.
Marina
I'm running. I bought leggings, only felt that the calves were not shaking so much. But fatigue is the same as before. I will test further, the effect may appear over time.
Svetlana
I bought a T-shirt and leggings. But after the purchase, I came across information that such clothes are addictive. Therefore, I try to wear it 1-2 times a week. Use after workout for better recovery. I'm happy with the effect so far.
Catherine
On the advice of the trainer, I decided to try compression knee socks, because I often run long distances. After the first race I felt that I was not as tired as before. After several workouts, I was able to improve my time. I don't know if it's all about golf or not, but for now I will only run in them.
Alyona
I bought leggings for running, they were all so praised. And I'm disappointed. It was very uncomfortable for me to move, the muscles were tightened as if in a vice. Maybe, of course, it's all about the size, but for now I will run without compression.
Anna
I bought Skins leggings and tights for training. I put it on the street while running. I noticed that after classes there is more strength and fatigue is not so strong. While I'm happy, I will continue to use them.
Irina
I liked the Compressport socks very much. I plan to buy more stockings from this brand. It is a pity that the company does not have leggings for girls yet.
Margarita
