Compression sleeves

Hope this doesn't sound like a dumb question, but what is the purpose of compression sleeves? Are they to keep your arms warm n cooler days instead of wearing a jacket? I've seen them but wasn't too sure what they were for...

Replies

  • wahelga
    wahelga Posts: 304 Member
    I thought it was to aid circulation but someone else will know more than me.
  • grimendale
    grimendale Posts: 2,153 Member
    Mostly to aid in circulation and help reduce muscle fatigue. I use compression sleeves for my calves on long runs, and it helps keep my legs a little fresher.
  • blood6338
    blood6338 Posts: 90 Member
    They reduce fatigue by keeping the muscles from being bounced around so much...especially for the legs on long runs. But they also can help keep your arms and legs warm but allow you to remove them once it warms up later in the run.
  • bbbgamer
    bbbgamer Posts: 582 Member
    compression stockings (TED hose) are usually worn to prevent blood from pooling in the legs... helps with varicose veins... I think you are referring to something other than this, just an fyi...
  • AJ_G
    AJ_G Posts: 4,158 Member
    I use calf compression sleeves when running to help prevent shin splints. They keep the calf muscles tight and prevent separation from the bone.
  • wahelga
    wahelga Posts: 304 Member
    Thanks guys, I might need to check them out to see if they help with that dead leg feeling after a hard workout / long hike
  • ken_hogan
    ken_hogan Posts: 854 Member
    Thanks for the responses!!
  • hmoffatt
    hmoffatt Posts: 51
    It's not clear that they actually work.. check out http://www.amateurendurance.com/injury-topics/article/compression-gear-fact-vs-fiction for example. Also they're usually intended to be worn after exercising to aid recovery, not during exercise.
  • stefjc
    stefjc Posts: 484 Member
    What he said.

    Yet more bastardisation-for-profit of new/minimal science.