General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Compresion Calve sleeves Rss Feed  
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2009-06-21 9:41 PM

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Subject: Compresion Calve sleeves
Compresion Calve sleeves, do they work, and what ailments do the help..  My problem, when I get to the run, my calves feel swollen and tight, not cramping thought.  This feeling is short lived and bearable on run workouts, but bricks and in the two tri's i have done, they make running, not painful but bothersome.  Will compresion sleeves for my calves help this?

what brand? 2xu?

Help, by fixing this I can bring my time down by more than 8 minutes!


2009-06-22 8:14 AM
in reply to: #2232718

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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
I also would like to know the answer to this. I have shin splints I can't get rid of. I have heard compression sleeves could help. What is the best brand to get. Sorry to piggy back on your question but no sense in asking the same question twice.
2009-06-22 9:12 AM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
If you run a search on this site I believe there are several threads out there that are helpful.

Personally, I use the Zensah and 2XU calf sleeves.   Most people use them for recovery, but they also can be used during a race.  The reason why I got them was because I felt my calves were getting very tight during extended bike workouts as well as the first minute or so of a bike/run brick.  I don't get chin splints so I can't speak as to whether or not the sleeves would be effective to handle this ailment.

But for calves these sleeves have been great.  I haven't had a cramp since I've used them, but I also made other adjustments that may have prevented my cramps/tightness including taking in more potassium, drinking/eating more electrolytes while training, and stretching EVERY time I exercise.  I wear these sleeves overnight too depending on how hard I've trained during the day.

From a price perspective, compression sleeves/socks are all over the place.  I find the Zensahs are reasonable priced on the Internet; the 2XU are still pricey and typically not on sale.
2009-06-24 1:52 PM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
I have not read any research to support or not support what you're asking so I can't opine.

However, regarding brands, my team is sponsored by Zensah and their compression gear is great.
2009-06-24 1:58 PM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
abrezo - 2009-06-21 10:41 PM

Will compresion sleeves for my calves help this?



Unlikely.  Your best bet is to train more.
2009-06-24 2:00 PM
in reply to: #2232718

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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves

I use them as a recovery tool during long intense runs or when my calves are sore.  I find that they do work and enable me to recovery slightly faster.  Is it worth it?  Not sure haven't done enough personal research!



2009-06-24 3:17 PM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
I can't imagine that compression around your calf would ideal for your ankles and feet.
2009-06-24 4:08 PM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
I have the 2xu sleeves and recovery socks.  I find they help a little.

Backstory:  A few months ago I was basically unable to run more than a couple of miles without it feeling like someone took a bat to my shins.  I was looking for anything to fix it and ended up getting the compression sleeves and some new shoes and changed from running on the treadmill to outside only (since it finally starting warming up).  Now, there are too many variables to attribute it to the compression alone and if I had to rank them in order it would probably be the change in surface, then shoes, then compression, but my shin splints have been gone and I've been ramping up my running slowly the past couple of months.  

I've also worn it to help out with some major calf soreness and it seems to help a little.

Is it worth it?  It depends I guess.  It was worth it to me at the time because I was unable to really train and now I'm happy to have them when I want to where them.  I usually just wear the socks for recovery now...


Edit:  I'd also add that I stretch alot more too now. 

Edited by acumenjay 2009-06-24 4:10 PM
2009-06-24 4:10 PM
in reply to: #2232718

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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves

I TOTALLY notice a difference when I do my long runs home from work (8+ miles) when I wear them during the day (considering I sit at a desk all day), then when I forget them at home and don't get to wear them.

As for "pre race" not sure....

And sorry...I am TOTALLY drawing a blank as to which brand I have!

They're not that expensive...I say, get 'em and try 'em out...you don't like 'em...forgettabout 'em!

 

2009-06-24 6:42 PM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves

I basically was having a massive problem with a shin splint on my left leg and was going to plain give up. I just put it down to the fact that I was just too darn heavy to run (300lb)

I tried a few things, but when I tried a 2XU compression sock (thin lycra type with stirrups)  it pretty much made the pain go away.. I am now regularly running 5km without a drama.

This is my personal experience of course..

I wear them often on the bike too.. especially after a run 

2009-06-24 7:18 PM
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Subject: RE: Compresion Calve sleeves
jeffy_101 - 2009-06-24 4:17 PM I can't imagine that compression around your calf would ideal for your ankles and feet.


Compression sleeves cause no edema to your ankles or feet..............I run in them all the time, and even cycle in them occasionally. Being compressed is groovy!! 


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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Compresion Calve sleeves Rss Feed