Aussie study of cyclists shows compression wear improves performance, decision-making

A new study indicates that wearing compression garments help make sportsmen smarter. Among the positive effects of using those athletic items are more blood flow to the brain that enhances decision-making, better performance and recovery benefits.

The study, a joint project between the Australian Institute of Sport, or AIS, and the University of Canberra’s Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, or UCRISE, looked into the effect of wearing compression garments on cyclists during an exercise on blood flow to the brain and how it changes the brain function. It was inspired by an observation that elderly people who do light exercise in water experience water pressure on the body and increased blood flow to the brain.

Professional cyclists wear Lycra shorts and shirts that are body-hugging and tight, providing compression to their bodies. Compression garments such as socks, leggings and shirts prevent blood from pooling in the body, resulting in better blood flow. However, Healthline reports that the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, or NATA, in the US says studies are inconclusive on the actual health benefits of compression wear.

Nathan Versey, physiologist at AIS, explains in a press release, “The anticipation is this could transfer across a variety of sports with the idea to see whether there is some form of cognitive change, which could be important for athletes in terms of sporting performance where they have to make decisions.”

He adds that in team sports, tactical decisions are often needed while competing. However, it could also happen to decisions that the ordinary person has to make in his daily life or weekend activities.

Current studies have established the value of using compression garments as a post-exercise recovery aid and some evidence of its use while exercising. The study compared the responses of cyclists who were hospital-grade compression garments, commercially available compression attire and not wearing compression items at all.

The study is a thesis by UCRUSE student Brittany Smale, whom Versey supervises, titled “Effect of compression garments on haemodynamics, physical performance, and cognitive function.” Smale is expected to present the thesis to Versey by middle of October.

Despite the NATA stand, another study by Persistence Market Research forecasts that the worldwide compression therapy industry would grow at a compounded yearly growth rate of 5.2 percent between 2014 and 2020 to $3.23 billion in 2020 from $2.38 in 2014.

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