Compression clothing is no stranger these days to professional athletes and weekend warriors alike. We are seeing more and more people drop their baggie shorts and tank tops in trade for body hugging gear. Is this a fashion statement, or have athletes found exercise clothes that are both functional and therapeutic before, during and after a hard workout, game or race? We already know that compression pants and socks have been used by hospitals for decades to treat vascular and circulatory conditions along with Lymphedema, but the benefits of compression have now been studied and verified for all sorts of injury prevention, muscle stabilization and improved blood flow. There are many benefits to quality athletic compression clothing, but the one we all want to know is how this gear affects muscle pain. When looking for hard facts and science, test results are still out but athletes’ personal experience is in.

The issue with testing for muscle pain during a workout and delayed onset muscle soreness after a hard session is it requires scientists to test an athlete to the point of pain. We all know that to be the best requires pain, but it’s another thing all together to sign up for discomfort for the sake of science. It can also be difficult to quantify as we all experience pain differently and have varied thresholds for it. Yet, scientists found a way to get fact put to paper.

So, here’s the basics on muscles under stress. When you work them to the point of tearing, strains or pulls, the body kicks in to support the tissue while it heals. To do this it inflames the surrounding area and the immune system sends fluid and white blood cells to the damaged tissue to begin repairs. If you happen to be wearing compression gear during and after the workout, the pressure around the muscle limits how much fluid can be stored thereby minimizing the inflammation, pressure and soreness. You will still experience pain, if you pushed yourself hard, but it will be less.

If you are wearing Snapbac compression, then you have the ability to immediately ice an area using one of the cool packs. This will bring down the inflammation even faster and the rapid cooling will help to numb the area while it recovers.

The tight compression will help reduce muscle fatigue and soreness during a workout as well by increasing your blood flow. This brings fresh oxygen to tired muscles and helps to carry away lactic acid and creatine kinase leaving your muscles ready for more.

There are many studies that have been completed and many more to come as science argues over how far the benefits of compression go to alleviate muscle pain and enhance recovery. In the meantime, we can trust the thousands of athletes who use this gear every time they workout or compete. Currently, we have their word. They have all experienced the benefits in performance and recovery.