5 Benefits of Compression Socks For Athletes & Runners
Compression therapy is one of those things that began as a medical remedy for health purposes, but over time has become more commonly used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to aid their training, performance and even style! If you’ve seen people sporting their compression socks (or sleeves) on Instagram, TV, in the gym or when out for a run, but are wondering what the benefits are and if it’s something you’d like to try, then below are five benefits that might just win you over.
1 — They Keep Your Muscles Warm
We all know the benefits of warm muscles (I mean, that’s why we warm up in the first place, right?), but keeping your muscles warm becomes especially hard as the temperature drops around the autumn and winter seasons. Compression socks help to protect your muscles against the cold, especially if they’re made from a slightly thicker and softer material (like these compression socks by aZengear), and they also help to maintain the heat that your muscles naturally produce during exercise.
2 — They Improve Blood Circulation
Developed from elastic fabrics that place just the right amount of pressure on your legs, compression socks help to boost the flow of blood back to the heart. This in turn also helps to prevent injuries, varicose veins, and blood clots.
3 — They Aid Performance & Muscle Recovery
With improved blood circulation, your muscles will be supplied with more blood, and hence, more oxygen. This in turn helps to supply your muscles with the oxygen they need during sessions, aid muscle recovery after sessions, as well as reduce muscle fatigue and cramps.
4 — They Reduce Pain, Inflammation & Swelling
If you’ve ever heard of R.I.C.E therapy, then you’ll know that the ‘C’ stands for compression and helps to reduce swelling (and pain) that can occur from injury. Even if you’re not injured, a tough session can put a lot of strain on your muscles, and they may feel a little sore or inflamed. Compression socks can be useful for speeding up the healing process.
5 — They Provide Stability, Support & Comfort!
Compression socks help to prevent injuries by providing added support to your muscles and limiting muscle oscillation (the movement/vibration of muscles that happens as the foot strikes the ground). This can be useful in helping you to maintain your posture and form, especially as fatigue begins to set in (which is also when injuries tend to occur).
So, there you have it!
These are just five benefits of compression socks, there are of course more!
But if these five have already won you over, then check out these unisex compressions socks by aZengear!
About The Author
Torema Thompson is a 100m sprinter, qualified personal trainer & UKA speed athletics coach. She is passionate about helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts go from newbies to masters in their athletics and/or fitness.