Can Compression Boots Really Boost Recovery?
Recovery is vital for any athlete. That’s why many are gravitating towards compression boots to soothe their legs after a rigorous workout. What was once a device exclusive to the medical field is now a trend in the fitness world. You’ll spot them at gyms, therapy centers, and even in homes, though they do come with a hefty price tag.
Think of them as an air-powered leg massage. They’re a relief when you’ve got that “tight” leg feeling, but is there solid proof of their benefits? While some research, often with limited participants, points to reduced soreness and better blood circulation, it’s the reason they’re on many cyclists’ wish lists.
But before you dig deep into your pockets for one of these, understand both the perks and pitfalls of compression boots. Here’s your guide to maximizing the experience if you decide to give them a try.
Breaking Down Compression Boots: The What and How
Compression boots operate on the principle of intermittent pneumatic compression. In simpler terms, they inflate and deflate to exert varying levels of pressure on the legs, promoting better blood circulation.
Kathleen Leninger, D.P.T., a seasoned physical therapist from New York City’s Custom Performance, explains it well. “As our bodies burn and produce energy, they create metabolic waste which circulates in our blood,” she says. “Given that our legs are below our heart, it becomes challenging for the heart to move this waste from the legs to the lymph system, our body’s waste disposal mechanism.”
So, the logic behind compression boots is straightforward. By enhancing the blood flow in your legs, they help in transporting the waste, enabling the body to eliminate it more efficiently.
While the concept of compression isn’t new, these boots bring a unique twist to the table.
Compression Boots vs. Compression Socks: What’s the Difference?
Compression tools come in two main styles for athletes: the steady squeeze of compression socks and the dynamic nature of compression boots using intermittent pneumatic compression.
Compression boots employ this intermittent pneumatic compression. They’re designed to inflate and deflate specific parts of a sleeve in a rhythmic manner. Covering your entire leg up to your thighs, they ensure comprehensive benefits.
On the contrary, compression socks provide a static, gradient squeeze. They’re snugger at the foot and gradually loosen as they move up the leg. This design aids in upward blood flow, countering leg swelling and discomfort.
What sets compression boots apart is their customizable pressure levels, offering a more active form of compression than socks. To put it in perspective, Eric Madia from Athletes Warehouse in New York draws an analogy. He explains, “It’s akin to contrasting an active versus a passive stretch. A mechanical device like the boots delivers compression at a rate that’s vastly quicker than what socks can offer.”
Why Compression Boots Are Gaining Popularity
Slipping into compression boots feels undeniably soothing – much like getting a leg massage. As Kathleen Leninger puts it, “Even if you just unwind and relax for 20 minutes using them, it’s beneficial.” But beyond just feeling good, there’s science that backs their advantages in post-exercise recovery.
- Improved Blood Circulation:
These boots are known for boosting blood flow. A 2018 study in the Journal of Applied Physiology showed that intermittent compression during post-exercise recovery increased blood circulation in the limb. Though conducted with only 12 participants, it suggests a potential positive impact on exercise performance and recuperation. - Reduced Swelling:
Any strenuous cycling, whether an intense HIIT routine or a lengthy trail ride, exposes muscles to tiny tears from constant stress. Kathleen explains, “Often unnoticeable, edema (or swelling) is the body’s way of mending these microtears.” Naturally, this swelling subsides with proper recovery like elevation and rest. However, compression boots can expedite this process. Especially useful when you’re moving from your workout directly into daily tasks, they prevent swelling from localizing in specific areas. - Optimized Muscle Repair:
“When metabolic waste lingers in your muscle cells post-workout, it hogs space that could be utilized by nutrient-rich blood,” shares Leninger. With more nutrients reaching your muscles, they heal and strengthen quicker. - Similar Benefits to Massage:
A 2016 study involving 72 ultramarathon runners published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that post-exercise pneumatic compression therapy mirrored the perks of a post-exercise massage. Moreover, a 2018 study from the International Journal of Exercise Science, with eight participants, noted that daily treatments using pneumatic compression devices reduced recovery time from muscle soreness more effectively than constantly worn compression sleeves.
In a nutshell, compression boots aren’t just a trend; they offer scientifically-backed benefits that can enhance your recovery process.
Compression Boots & Athletic Performance
In another intriguing study involving 24 elite Olympic athletes – an even split between men and women – some noteworthy findings emerged. Athletes who indulged in a 15-minute session of pneumatic compression therapy post their morning workout felt a marked decrease in their pain pressure threshold (essentially, their muscles were less tender to touch) immediately after and continued to feel this relief post their afternoon training. Conversely, their counterparts who skipped this compression recovery didn’t experience this pain alleviation.
However, there’s a nuance to these findings. While physiological data seems promising, there’s a scarcity of research focusing on performance outcomes. Meaning, while these studies hint at enhanced comfort and pain reduction, evidence directly linking to improved performance remains elusive. Yet, feeling better post-exercise might naturally translate to better performance for certain athletes.
Kaysee Fulbright (previously known as Armstrong), a professional mountain bike racer (and not affiliated with Normatec) shares her personal take. “I got myself the Normatec boots, and I was instantly sold by the relief they provided to my weary legs,” she recounts. “Whether it’s a grueling day of training or just extensive travel, these boots are my go-to for recovery. And for days when I’m not in the mood for a recovery ride, they’re perfect. They give me a valid reason to lounge, elevate my legs, and still ensure effective recovery.”
Do Compression Boots Have Drawbacks?
One of the main drawbacks of compression boots is the dent they could leave in your finances. Many top-notch models have price tags hovering around $1,000. For a good number of cycling enthusiasts, that’s a steep price to pay.
Plus, not everyone finds these systems user-friendly. While a trained physical therapist might dial in the perfect settings based on your training feedback, an everyday user might struggle to get it right at home.
On the upside, there’s some research highlighting the benefits of compression boots. However, a point to note is that most of these studies involve only a limited number of participants. Additionally, newer research, though limited in scope, suggests these boots might not be the magic cure-all they’re sometimes made out to be.
For instance, a 2021 review in the Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, which evaluated just three studies, indicated that intermittent pneumatic compression might not effectively counter exercise-induced muscle damage in endurance sportspeople. But, there’s a silver lining: it offers short-lived relief, if not prolonged ones. Another 2020 study from the International Journal of Exercise Science, which observed 10 long-distance runners, concluded that this compression technique didn’t offer significant gains.
In summary: More extensive, prolonged studies are required before we can confidently vouch for the efficacy of compression boots.
How to Maximize Your Recovery with Compression Boots?
Your workout intensity often determines your recovery needs. Put simply: the harder you train, the more rest and recovery your body demands. Madia suggests that high-intensity activities produce more waste materials in our cells, which need to be cleared out.
Wondering when to use compression boots? Consider them after intense workouts – whether it’s interval training, long cycling routes, or rigorous century training. They’re particularly beneficial if you’ve got two demanding workouts in quick succession, mentions Leninger.
To get the most out of the boots, Madia suggests using them three to four times weekly. He breaks it down: “After one or two demanding sessions, it’s good to use the boots to cleanse your system.” He’s found this frequency optimizes recovery for most athletes.
But, remember to keep the pressure levels in check. Madia warns against going above level seven. Too much pressure can lead to discomfort or even numbness. A tingling in your feet or visible lines from the boots on your legs? That’s a clear indicator you’ve set the pressure too high.
Mostly, it’s advised to use the boots post-exercise. Madia reasons, “Before a workout, our nervous system gears up. Afterward, it needs to calm down and rejuvenate. That’s where the boots come in.”
However, it’s not just athletes who benefit. Leninger points out, “People on their feet for long hours, like late-shift waitresses, can use the boots before exercising to rejuvenate their legs.” In such scenarios, a short 10-15 minute session can be beneficial.
To conclude, aim for a 30-35 minute session post-workout, Madia’s identified sweet spot for recovery. So, put on a TV show and let the boots do their magic!
