Are compression shorts necessary?
I have seen numerous runners at events wearing compression shorts, however, I have seen just as many runners not wearing them. So, is there a benefit to wearing them or is it just another marketing gimmick? I recently purchased a pair of #UnderArmour compression shorts to see for myself.
Myths
When I was researching material for this article, I was amazed to read how many people have been buying compression gear because they believed they could run longer distances and run faster paces. I read things like “compression gear focuses your muscles’ energy to generate maximum explosive power, acceleration and long term endurance.” “Compression gear delivers increased power and stamina.”
If you are one of the many individuals that bought into that theory when you purchased your compression gear, you are extremely misinformed. If sliding on a piece of compression garment will yield these types of results, every athlete in the world would be sporting their compression gear to get that extra advantage over their opponent. I am sure that if I had bought and worn compression shorts much earlier than now, I would have easily qualified for the Boston Marathon (insert sarcasm here).
Facts
Now lets examine the facts about compression gear as tested and proved. The main benefits of compression sportswear is that it keeps the muscles warm to prevent muscle strain and fatigue, and wick sweat away from the body to prevent chafing and rashes. Compression garments are also proven to ease muscle stiffness and quicken recovery time. Along with the relief of pain from muscle stiffness and soreness, compression apparel delivers graduated pressure, meaning there is improved oxygenation to the working muscles.
Studies have shown that runners and other athletes experienced improved blood flow through their muscles when wearing compression gear during workouts. Therefore, it seems logical that greater blood flow equates to better oxygenation of muscles, thus improved performance.
My experience with compression
Recently, I started having problems with my left knee while running. There have been a few times where I would run only a mile or two and have to walk the rest of the way because of the pain. I wasn’t able to pinpoint the problem. This problem occurred regardless of if I ran on a roadway or treadmill. After speaking with other runners, who I would consider experts on the matter, I decided to try compression gear.
I bought a pair of Under Armour compression shorts and went on a treadmill run later that day. Surprisingly, I had no pain in my knee what-so-ever. Not sure how compression shorts would have an affect on my knees, but I ran pain free so I don’t care! I also noticed that I felt better afterwards. My muscle fatigue seemed to be lessened and I had minimal soreness.
So, to answer the question “are compression shorts necessary?” For me there was a benefit that justified the money spent. I did not experience an increase in distance and I certainly did not run at a faster pace, but eliminating the discomfort that I had been previously dealing with made it all worthwhile.
My suggestion would be to buy whatever compression gear you need, give it a try and see if it offers a benefit to you. If not, then you know not to spend more money on other gear. If it offers even the slightest improvement in soreness, fatigue, or discomfort, then it was money well spent.
