Why Compression Gear Is The Ultimate Workout Companion

What does the science say?

“There are several studies looking into compression therapy and all of them conclude that it does work,” says Kimberley. “One study from 2020 found that wearing compression socks could benefit muscle function and perceived muscle soreness during both a workout and the recovery period, meaning you’ll feel less sore after a workout and recover more quickly. A separate study looked at the effect of compression clothing on endurance, strength and power and motor control, and observed reductions in muscle swelling and perceived muscle pain.” By improving perceived exertion – i.e. how hard you find a workout – it can mean less effort is needed for a workout, ideal on those days you don’t feel like training or need to clock up the miles when training for an endurance event.  

Who’s it for?

If you’re into running, the experts agree compression gear is worth a try. As Josh Davies, personal trainer at Aimee Victoria Long, explains, “Pretty much everyone can benefit from compression therapy, regardless of your preferred form of exercise, but given it’s particularly effective for the lower half of the body, it’s one to try if you’re into running – whether you like a 5k on a Saturday morning or you’re training for a longer run. The more strain your form of exercise puts on the body, the more benefit you’re going to feel from using compression.” Kimberley agrees, adding that compression gear is best suited to higher intensity workouts. “Any workout that will fatigue you quickly and cause soreness is one that could benefit from compression gear. This means that it’s great for running, high intensity sports and HIIT training, but less suited to low-impact activities such as yoga and Pilates.” 

Where should you start with it?

Compression socks and leggings are the best entry-level pieces, says Kimberley. “Compression socks are hugely popular due to the fact that calf, ankle and foot injuries are very common among endurance athletes. Compression socks provide support in these potentially weak or vulnerable areas, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing performance. Leggings, meanwhile, can make a huge difference when it comes to enhancing a workout, and when worn post-workout can help you recover more quickly.” 

At the same time, there’s also a market for specialised compression gear – think wrist supports for resistance training and yoga, sleeves for boxing, and back supports for cycling. Some brands also offer leggings that are specifically tailored to different sports. For example, 2XU’s Run Shorts use clever tech that adjusts the support depending on the dynamics of movement in different sports, while Lululemon’s run socks hug lower leg and foot muscles to boost energy and support the achilles.

Any other tips?

When buying a pair of compression leggings, it’s important to note the difference between a genuine pair versus a pair of very tight leggings. “If you’re buying compression leggings for the sports recovery and performance benefits, make sure they’re from a tried-and-tested brand with a reputable track record, and ideally have graduated compression throughout,” says Kimberley. Brands to try include 2XU, CEP Sportswear and Skins. And if you’re a keen runner looking to try compression socks, Kimberley recommends looking for a pair that are tighter around the ankles and then loosen as they move up the calf. “This style encourages lactic acid to move back up the legs and balances oxygenated blood in the lower extremity of the foot, which is particularly important during long endurance events.”

The bottom line?

If you’re prone to injuries, training for an event or are looking to bounce back more quickly between workouts, compression gear could well be worth a try.