When working out in the gym or going for your outdoor running, what is the type of wear you prefer to use? what do you see around you? Sports leggings and compression tights or socks have become very popular. The reasons vary from style and comfort to performance. Although some studies support the claim for real benefits there are other studies that show no actual advantage of wearing them. let’s check the data and see what are the proven benefits and what is questionable.
The slim fit of tights or compression leggings provides the benefit of not riding up during a run. In addition, the tightness can eliminate friction that baggier clothing can cause against your skin.
Tights are usually made of a mix of polyester and spandex (some with additional warmth layer) which allow flexibility and freedom of movement.
Because of the form-fitting, tights are also great for cycling. tights are more comfortable than a loose pair of pants, avoiding friction or the risk of catching the pants in the chain-wheel.
Unlike regular shorts, some sports leggings also have a rear pocket or another internal pocket. This is better for keeping keys or energy gel without them jumping around in a loose pocket.
Running tights can be made with thermal or insulating fabric for cold conditions. Some also have wind and water-resistant properties. Some just allow fast wicking so both you and pants will dry faster.
Doesn’t matter if you are going to use full lengths tights or not, still, you can expect some protection for your skin from particles or in case of falling.
Some mesh designs, besides being stylish, are for use to aid in ventilation in the hot days.
Compression tights are form-fitting leggings that hold your muscles and should give extra support to allow faster recovery.
Some studies showed that while compression garments had no significant impact on speed, there was an impact on endurance. Also, there are post-run benefits too, for recovery.
For the professional runner, tights also might mean reducing wind resistance and increased speed. According to the Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, running with tights can decrease wind resistance by two percent and for the professional runner, this can be important.
Some studies and many happy athletes and ordinary active people have found one or more of the following benefits to be applied:
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, conducted research on muscles movement while having compression leggings. The check showed tights indeed can reduce muscle oscillations, but the reduction of oscillation, or muscle movement, is thought to prevent energy waste and assists in maintaining proper body alignment. While increased blood flow ensures that the muscles are receiving a constant supply of oxygen, which is required to sustain performance or enhance recovery.
“We found that compression tights actually reduce the amount your muscles vibrate, but that was not associated with any less fatigue during a 30-minute high-intensity run,” said Ajit Chaudhari, lead author of the study
Is it a placebo effect? this is a fair question. But, also placebo is a real factor when it comes to our mind and body are using thoughts and feelings. So, if we do feel improvements by wearing compression tights, the impact can be real.
lastly, let’s not forget fashion and how it makes us feel.
Sports leggings, compression or not, are becoming more and more stylish. Many patterns, prints, and styles certainly increase the enjoyment of exercising. This is definitely a worthy factor by itself.
If for your own use you haven’t find compression leggings to have health benefits, still it can be a preferred choice for your exercise activewear due to protection, wicking, comfort, and fashion.
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