Compression garments for enhanced performance

Compression garments are “skin tight” items of clothing which provide mild compression on the body’s muscles in order to increase the flow of blood to and from specific muscle groups. Increased blood flow is claimed to improve performance, reduce the risk of injury, and accelerate muscle recovery during and after exercise.

Traditionally, compression garments have been used in the medical field to prevent and treat burns, low blood pressure, muscle strains and sprains. They are also worn on long haul flights to prevent deep vein thrombosis.

Today’s compression garments, in addition to providing compression on specific groups of muscles, also provide other features such as antimicrobial protection, antistatic properties, breathability, enhanced fabric durability, moisture management, stain release technology, temperature regulation, and protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

The designs of compression garments vary in complexity, according to the manufacturer. Almost all compression garments are manufactured from fine denier yarns produced from blends of polyester and elastane. A relatively large proportion of elastane is used to achieve maximum compression. High quality yarns are used so that the garments do not stretch out of shape after repeated wear and laundering.

The fit of most compression garments is based on conventional sizes—small, medium and large. However, the selection of some garments is based on the body mass index (BMI) to achieve optimum compression. In addition, some manufacturers incorporate special panels in their garments to provide targeted compression on specific groups of muscles. Key manufacturers of compression garments include two Australia-based companies, Skins and Body Science, as well as the brand companies Adidas, Asics, Nike, Under Armour and 2XU. All of these businesses have invested large sums of money in promoting and advertising their brands of compression clothing. Also, although the use of compression clothing in sports activities is relatively new, many famous professional players and athletes already wear compression clothing on a regular basis.

SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

WHAT ARE COMPRESSION GARMENTS?

Purpose

Types

Garments for specific applications

Additional features

COMMON PHYSIOLOGICAL PROBLEMS AND HOW COMPRESSION GARMENTS CAN
HELP TO PREVENT THEM

Fatigue

Build-up of Lactic acid

Excessive muscle vibration

Slow muscle recovery

Repetitive strain injuries

KEY FEATURES OF COMPRESSION GARMENTS

Fibre blends

Yarn diameter

Fabric and garment construction

Fit

Pattern design

Sizing

Waistbands and drawstrings

KEY MANUFACTURERS OF COMPRESSION GARMENTS AND THEIR PRODUCTS

Under Armour

Products

Skins

Products

Nike: Nike Pro

Products and brand names

Adidas: TechFit Powerweb

2XU

Yarns

Asics

Inner Muscle Shirt

Inner Muscle Tights

Body Science

Products

OUTLOOK FOR THE FOR THE COMPRESSION GARMENT MARKET

APPENDIX: HOW MUSCLE CELLS FUNCTION USING AEROBIC AND ANAEROBIC
RESPIRATION

Aerobic respiration

Anaerobic respiration