Do compressive sportswear improve performance?

CAIRO – 03 July 2017: Nowadays, many professional runners, football players, and basket players are seen wearing bright and tight compression clothes. Why is that? Does compressive sportswear help athletes improve their performance?

Compressive sportswear, which include leggings, socks, stockings, and shirts, are usually made of spandex and are sold by big sportswear names such as Adidas, Asics and Under Armour.

There is controversy over the fact that wearing compressive garments will improve one’s performance by decreasing levels of fatigue or increasing their speed. However, a

study conducted by

Nike had proved that compressive garments “play no part in reducing muscle fatigue when compared to running without them.”

Further research has shown that they may reduce muscle vibration, Dr. Jessica Hill, program director for applied sport and exercise physiology at St. Mary’s University, London, said

to the Guardian

.

On the other hand, as stated by

Men’s Journal

, the garments may help the body recover by reducing swelling or inflammation post-performance.