How Do Compression Sleeves Decrease Injury Risk With Runners

Updated: Jul 30

You may have seen many runners, fast and slow, wearing compression gear. Be it calf sleeves, a base layer or the full on running tights. Believe it or not this is not a fashion statement to let everyone know your a runner- there are actual real benefits to wearing compression gear. This article will explain to you the benefits of using compression sleeves and where to buy the best ones for a good price.

Compression sleeves benefits for runners

Compression sleeves are mainly worn in the colder weather and they help to warm up the muscles when you are running and also provide support. The use of compression sleeves is heavily backed by science (1) that is why you will find pictures of some of the best runners in the world training in them. So, lets get into the actual benefits:

Provide warmth

Compression sleeves are usually worn when by runners when it is cold out, this is because when it is cold out you are more susceptible to injury so wearing compression gear can help to keep your legs warm from the start of a run. By wearing compression gear you will be at a much lower risk of muscle strains. Compression sleeves also make the thought of going out for a cold winter run just a little bit better in my opinion.

An added bonus is warm muscles have better blood flow and this also means your muscles will fatigue slower (2).

Increase blood flow

Compression sleeves put pressure on your veins and this improves your circulation and makes sure you get a better supply of oxygen rich blood to the muscles. This means that you are at less risk of injury and any muscle strains you do have are likely to heal faster, getting you back to doing what you do best as soon as possible.

Increase lymphatic flow

Compression sleeves also provide an increase in lymphatic flow which means that your muscles will have the waste products drained away faster, reduced swelling and improve the healing of injuries.

Reduced muscle oscillation

What this basically means is that when you are running and your foot is hitting the ground your muscles, soft tissue and bones will receive less of an impact. One study found a significant decrease in muscle oscillation across 27 participants when they were wearing compression sleeves.

Provide stability

If you have ever worn compression sleeves when you have been semi-injured then you will know what I mean. Compression gear provides stability and allows your muscles to feel like they can activate and move the same as before you had this little injury.

When should I wear compression sleeves?

So, now you know that compression sleeves can improve your performance, make you more comfortable when running and significantly decrease the likelihood of injury. But when should you wear them?

Well, I would never go for a winter run without at least a pair of calf compression sleeves on, but also if I was going through a period with a muscle train then I would wear them post-workout and around the house. Compression sleeves work their magic even when you are not running, so why not take full advantage of them? I have know runners who sleep in them and they swear by it!

Which compression sleeves should I get?

Well, for me personally I have always worn BearHug compression sleeves as they are by far the most durable and if you cannot tell by the name- they really help to compress your muscles well. One pair can really last you a lifetime, I have gone through a few pairs before I came across these and all of the reviews swore by them.