Sam Pedlow: Boost Performance with Medical Compression

In recent years there has been a growing shift of focus towards the optimization of human performance. The wellness industry has put an increased focus on intrinsic factors that can be manipulated in order to achieve the goals of top performance and reduced fatigue.

This shift often focuses on the areas of supplementation, mental performance, and exercise selection. But what about external factors or tools we can use to aid in achieving these same goals. What if just by choosing better gear, we could improve performance and reduce fatigue.

Designed to increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage, compression garments can improve muscle performance and reduce recovery time. Utilizing compression garments does not just mean wearing exceptionally tight clothing. True compression garments are designed with medical graduated compression (20-30 mmHg compression level) which gradually decreases the level of compression up the garment towards the torso.

The most popular form of compression is socks….. And yes, there is much more to them than just super tight and often colorful socks. Graduated medical compression is clinically proven to help promote circulation and allow muscles to receive an increased supply of oxygen to help them perform more effectively and regenerate quicker.

Choosing the right compression sock is important. You want to look for a perfect, no-slip fit, breathable material as well as adequate compression levels.

All Bauerfeind compression socks feature graduated medical compression (20-30 mmHg), are made from a highly elastic knitted fabric, and exert a carefully regulated level of pressure. This compressive action boosts your circulation with lasting effect, transporting that all-important oxygen around your body. As a result, you can train more regularly, recover more quickly, get tired less easily, experience fewer muscle vibrations, and draw on greater energy reserves.

Beyond compression socks, there are a wide variety of other compression garments that may have a positive impact on increasing performance and reductions in fatigue. These may come in the form of sleeves (arm, thigh, calf) or complete compression shirts/pants.

As with the socks, Bauerfeind compression sleeves for the arm, leg, and thigh are designed with medical compression (20-30 mmHg), which gradually decreases as it goes toward the body. This clinically proven design helps promote circulation and allows muscles to receive an increased supply of oxygen to help them perform more effectively and regenerate quicker. Blood circulation is effectively stimulated, which warms the muscles to help protect against injury, yet the fabric is extremely lightweight and provides a temperature- and moisture-regulating effect.

No matter which garment type you select the goal remains the same. Graduated medical compression looks to improve circulation and blood flow, as well as reduce fatigue and post-activity soreness. So whether you are a professional athlete, weekend warrior, or just headed out for a walk around town, graduated compression might be just the boost you are looking for!