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Compression Garments, Muscle Contractile Function, and Economy in Trail Runners
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance
|April 16, 2016
Summary
Compression garments (CGs) did not improve muscle function or running economy after a short trail run. Physiological alterations occurred regardless of clothing type, suggesting CGs offer no immediate benefit for trail runners.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- The physiological effects of compression garments (CGs) during off-road running remain unclear.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of CGs versus conventional running clothing (CON) on muscle contractile function and running economy.
- To assess these effects before and after a short-distance trail running bout.
Main Methods:
- 12 trained athletes completed an 18.6-km trail run wearing either CGs or CON.
- Knee-extensor neuromuscular function (including MVC, Db10, Db100) and running economy were measured pre- and post-run.
- EMG recordings were used to assess quadriceps voluntary activation and M-wave amplitude.
Main Results:
- Running economy worsened post-run irrespective of clothing condition.
- Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) decreased significantly in both CGs and CON groups.
- Quadriceps voluntary activation and measures of muscle potentiation (Db10, Db100) declined after the run, with no difference between conditions.
Conclusions:
- Wearing CGs does not mitigate the physiological impairments following short-distance trail running.
- Further research is needed to explore the potential benefits of higher compression intensity or longer exercise durations for experienced trail runners.
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