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SPORTS & FITNESS

Mountain Views NewsSaturday, October 19, 2024

Speed Up Recovery With Compression Therapy

After a tough workout, recovery is just as important as the exercise 
itself. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are always looking for 
ways to speed up recovery, reduce soreness, and prepare for their 
next session. One recovery method that has gained significant 
popularity is compression therapy. This technique involves using 
devices such as compression boots, sleeves, and wraps to help 
muscles heal faster. But what exactly is compression therapy, and 
how does it support recovery after exercise?

Compression therapy has long been used in the medical field to 
treat circulation problems and prevent blood clots. When applied 
after exercise, the concept remains the same. These devices exert 
controlled pressure on the muscles, promoting improved blood 
circulation and reducing inflammation. The pressure helps blood 
move more efficiently through the muscles, delivering fresh 
oxygen and nutrients that aid in the healing process. It helps flush 
out waste products like lactic acid, which is responsible for the 
soreness often felt after an intense workout. Many athletes and 
fitness enthusiasts report that using compression devices regularly 
not only helps them feel better but also speeds up their recovery. 

One of the most commonly used types is pneumatic compression 
boots. These boots cover the legs and use air pressure to mimic the 
muscle’s natural movements. By inflating and deflating in specific 
patterns, the boots apply pressure to the legs, helping boost blood 
flow and reduce swelling. Pneumatic compression boots are 
particularly popular among runners, cyclists, and athletes who do 
a lot of leg work. Devices like NormaTec and Rapid Reboot are 
some of the leading brands, although very pricey.

Then there are sleeves and wraps. These can be worn on various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, or 
torso. Unlike pneumatic boots, sleeves and wraps provide a consistent level of pressure and can be worn both 
during and after exercise. Their portability and ease of use make them a popular choice for those looking for a 
light recovery option throughout the day, even when on the move.

For those who train for long durations, such as marathon runners or football players, compression recovery pants 
and full-body suits are becoming more popular. These cover larger areas of the body and offer varying levels 
of compression. Full-body recovery suits are especially helpful when targeting multiple muscle groups at once, 
providing comprehensive recovery after long, exhausting sessions.

Finally, there are portable compression devices designed for smaller areas of the body, such as the arms or calves. 
These are ideal for anyone needing quick relief in specific muscles, offering targeted compression therapy in a 
compact form.

The primary advantage of compression therapy is the ability to speed up recovery time. When blood circulation 
improves and lactic acid is flushed out, the muscles can heal faster after strenuous activity. This allows athletes to 
train more frequently and push themselves harder without the lingering soreness that typically follows a tough 
workout.

Additionally, compression therapy may help prevent injuries. Overworking muscles, tendons, and ligaments 
without proper recovery increases the risk of strains and injuries. When muscles heal quickly and efficiently, the 
body is better prepared for the next workout, reducing the chances of injury. This is especially important for those 
who train at high intensities over consecutive days.

There is also evidence that using compression therapy regularly can enhance athletic performance. Faster recovery 
means athletes can push harder during their next workout without feeling as fatigued. Over time, this can lead to 
improved performance as the body is able to sustain higher levels of training with less downtime between sessions.

To maximize the benefits of compression therapy, it’s essential to use the devices correctly. The optimal time for 
compression therapy is immediately after exercise when the muscles are tired and blood circulation is needed to 
clear out waste and bring in nutrients for repair. Most compression sessions last between 15 minutes and an hour.

Some compression devices allow users to adjust the pressure levels. Finding the right balance is key—the pressure 
should be firm enough to promote blood flow but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable. Overly tight 
compression can cause discomfort and might even hinder circulation rather than help it.

Adding compression therapy to a recovery routine, which might also include proper stretching, hydration, and 
balanced nutrition, can further improve results. However, anyone with medical conditions or injuries should 
consult a healthcare professional before using compression therapy to ensure it’s safe for their specific situation.

Compression therapy is more than just a trend—it's becoming an important tool for recovery in the fitness and 
sports world. If you think you may benefit, check it out!

HUDDLE UP


Michele Silence, M.A. is a 37-year certified fitness 

professional who offers semi-private/virtual fitness 
classes. Contact Michele at michele@kid-fit.com. 
Visit her Facebook page at: michelesfitness Visit 
her Facebook page at: michelesfitness.

With HARVEY HYDE


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