What’s the big deal about compression?

It seems like everyone is talking about compression these days.  In fact, we’ve carried compression products for years and were a little ahead of the demand before customers started buying.  Now, we can barely keep compression in stock!  So what is compression, and how can your running benefit from it?

The theory behind compression

Compression is really two fold.  First, compression is great for recovery.  The theory is that compression forces the blood in your legs to flush out the lactic acid built up from racing or working out to improve and speed up your recovery.  Second, runners are now using compression during the race.  For example, compression socks will keep your blood flowing to help prevent your calves from cramping and knotting up to improve performance.

How to use compression

Whether you decide to use compression for recovery or during your race, you need to make sure you purchase the correct product for your needs.  Compression used for recovery is stronger and tighter than compression used during your race.  There are actually different grades of compression, from medical to athletic grades, and the kind you need depends on its use as well as performance.  Complete Runner carries compression from CW-X, CEP, Zenzah, and others including socks, calf sleeves, shorts, and three-quarter and full length tights, and we’ll be glad to help you decide what kind of compression is best for you.

Oh, and by the way, spandex doesn’t count.