Pressure and coverage effects of sporting compression garments on cardiovascular function, thermoregulatory function,...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Sporting compression garments (CG) are widely used by athletes.
• Evidence supporting the benefits of CG for exercise performance and physiological function is limited.
• The specific effects of full-body CG, considering both pressure and coverage, require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of full-body compression garments (CG) on cardiovascular and thermoregulatory function.
• To assess the impact of CG on exercise performance during prolonged cycling.
• To differentiate between the effects of garment coverage and pressure.

Main Methods:

• Twelve recreationally trained male cyclists participated in a counterbalanced study.
• Participants completed three sessions: correctly-sized CG (CSG), over-sized CG (OSG), and control (gym shorts).
• Measurements included resting and exercise cardiovascular/thermoregulatory function and a 6-km cycling time trial.

Main Results:

• Full-body CG did not improve cardiovascular strain at rest or during exercise.
• Cardiac output was slightly higher with CG, potentially due to non-significant increases in heart rate.
• Covered skin temperature increased, but core body temperature remained unaffected; time-trial performance was similar across conditions.

Conclusions:

• Full-body compression garments (CG) offer no discernible benefits for exercise performance in cyclists.
• Observed physiological effects were mild and likely attributable to skin coverage rather than applied pressure.
• Further research may be needed to identify specific scenarios or populations where CG could be beneficial.