The Effect of Graduated Compression Stockings on Running Performance

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of wearing different grades of graduated compression stockings (GCS) on 10-km running performance. After an initial familiarization run, 9 male and 3 female competitive runners (VO₂max 68.7 ± 5.8 ml·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) completed 4 10-km time trials on an outdoor 400-m track wearing either control (0 mm Hg; Con), low (12-15 mm Hg; Low), medium (18-21 mm Hg; Med), or high (23-32 mm Hg; Hi) GCS in a randomized counterbalanced order. Leg power was assessed pre and postrun via countermovement jump using a jump mat. Blood-lactate concentration was assessed pre and postrun, whereas heart rate was monitored continuously during exercise. Perceptual scales were used to assess the comfort, tightness, and any pain associated with wearing GCS. There were no significant differences in performance time between trials (p = 0.99). The change in pre to postexercise jump performance was lower in Low and Med than in Con (p < 0.05). Mean heart rate (p = 0.99) and blood lactate (p = 1.00) were not different between trials. Participants rated Con and Low as more comfortable than Med and Hi (p < 0.01), Med and Hi were rated as tighter than Low (p < 0.01), all GCS were rated as tighter than Con (p < 0.01), and Hi was associated with the most pain (p < 0.01). In conclusion, GCS worn by competitive runners during 10-km time trials did not affect performance time; however Low and Med GCS resulted in greater maintenance of leg power after endurance exercise. Athletes rated low-grade GCS as most comfortable garments to wear during exercise.

The Effectiveness of Compression Socks for Athletic Performance and Recovery

“…• No differences in the physiological variables of heart rate, oxygen consumption, rating of perceived exertion, or lactate levels were found with the use of GCS. [3][4][5][6] • Two studies, 1 with 2 separate experiments, showed no difference in running performance while wearing GCS. 3,6 • Two studies showed that GCS were effective in improving performance as measured by either maximal work 5 or running performance.…”

“…[3][4][5][6] • Two studies, 1 with 2 separate experiments, showed no difference in running performance while wearing GCS. 3,6 • Two studies showed that GCS were effective in improving performance as measured by either maximal work 5 or running performance. 4 • One study showed that GCS improved maximum running speed.…”

“…Based on the studies specifically looking at below-the-knee GCS, the evidence tends to refute any physiological benefits. 3,6 Only 1 study 3 met the inclusion criteria and was able to support the use of GCS for decreasing delayed-onset muscle soreness. More research must be conducted to more definitely determine if GCS are able to improve performance and/or decrease recovery time in endurance athletes.…”

“…9 While this narrative is easily marketable to runners looking to get an edge on their competition, the research does not consistently support these claims. From a performance perspective, 2 studies showed no improvements, 3,6 while 2 studies noted improved performance based on time under load while running 4 or greater work during a cycle-ergometer test. 5 It is important to note that our review only examined the use of traditional, below-the-knee compression socks and did not include compression sleeves, tights, or shorts.…”

Compression and sports

“…13,17,18 Positive effects of CS, wearing on the post-exercise pain, persist for 48 to 72 h after exercise. Wearing CS also improves muscle performances during the recovery phase with positive effects on jump height 24 to 96 h after exercise.…”