Use of Compression Garments for Recovery From Plyometric Exercise
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of compression tights and knee-high stockings on recovery from plyometric exercise. Thirty recreationally active men completed 10x10 plyometric box drop jumps to induce muscle damage. Participants were randomized into three groups: full compression tights, knee-high stockings, or passive recovery. Both compression groups wore the garments for 12 hours following exercise. Participants were assessed for muscle swelling, isokinetic strength of the ankle and knee, vertical jump height, and perceived muscle soreness before exercise, and 24, 48, and 72 hours post-exercise. All measures were compared to pretest values, and a repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess variation among groups (p< 0.05). A significant effect of time suggested that the protocol inflicted muscle damage. However, no significant differences occurred between groups, suggesting that the compression garments did not aid in recovery in this group of subjects.