Regular physical activity such as walking, running, or lifting weights offers a variety of benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, muscle tone, and better overall health. However, those who exercise frequently or are starting a new workout routine may experience the following:
- Shin splints
- Plantar fasciitis
- Mild swelling
- Muscle soreness
Stretching and staying hydrated can help alleviate some of these problems, but the best way to address all of them is with compression socks. Wearing compression socks is one of the simplest, most affordable ways to prevent all kinds of pain during and after a workout.
This article discusses whether you should wear compression socks while working out and their general benefits for athletes.
Nurse Yard provides unmatchable compression socks that help with arch support, reduce muscle fatigue, and provide graduated pressure. No matter what exercise you enjoy or the sport you play, there’s a compression sock design that will suit your preferences.
How Do Compression Socks Work?
Compression socks apply pressure to your calves, supporting your leg muscles, tendons, and other connective tissues. Additionally, they aid circulation by preventing fluid retention and encouraging blood and lymph to move faster through your body. Better blood circulation also helps oxygenate the body more efficiently, which is especially helpful for cardiovascular exercise.
Is Wearing Compression Socks During Exercise Safe?
As long as your compression socks fit you correctly and you wash them between workouts, the benefits of wearing compression socks during exercise far outweigh the risks. In fact, It’s not only safe to wear compression socks during exercise, but it’s also often doctor-recommended for those who:
- Workout frequently
- Engage in high-impact or cardio-forward activities
- Are recovering from injuries
Nurse Yard compression socks are available in a wider range of sizes than ordinary crew socks. It’s important to ensure your compression socks fit properly to avoid injury or circulation issues. Check out our comprehensive sizing guide to determine which size will fit you best.
Benefits of Compression Socks During Exercise
Compression socks for athletes can help improve your performance, make working out more comfortable, and even prevent injuries. Though most athletes that wear compression socks are runners or soccer players, weightlifters and less cardio-focused athletes can also enjoy the benefits of wearing graduated compression socks during exercise.
During a Workout
Compression socks offer support to the lower leg for weightlifters and other athletes that do short bursts of movement—they may even improve balance which protects the ankle from injury. Since compression socks improve circulation and blood flow, they help oxygenate the body. This process can improve lung function and improve runners’ endurance.
To get the most benefit from your apparel, put them on before your workout pants, and avoid tucking your pant legs into them. The extra layer between the sock and your skin cancels out its benefits.
After a Workout
Improved circulation during exercise equals less soreness and a shorter recovery time afterward. When you work out, your muscles retain fluid which can cause swelling and contribute to soreness. Compression socks reduce inflammation by helping your body distribute fluids more evenly. This process also helps post-workout pain recede faster.
It’s recommended to wear your compression socks during cool-down and stretches and then for up to 60 minutes post-workout for best results.
Can Compression Socks Help With Performance?
Yes, compression socks can help with your performance! The right pair of compression socks can:
- Increase stamina during exercise
- Reduce leg pain and inflammation post-workout
- Protect connective tissue and circulatory structure
These benefits enable you to exercise more often and for longer periods. Less inflammation and durable muscular support also shorten recovery time, so you’ll be more comfortable after each workout.
How to Choose Compression Socks for Exercise
When selecting compression socks for exercise, it’s important to ensure they fit correctly and offer the right level of compression. Socks that are too big or loose need constant adjusting and won’t provide any compression. However, socks that are too small or tight can disrupt circulation and cause numbness in your feet and legs.
Selecting a Size
To choose the right compression socks for exercise, start by measuring around the widest part of your calf. Next, compare that measurement and your shoe size to Nurse Yard’s sizing chart to see which size will fit you best.
For instance, if your calf measures 11 inches in circumference and you wear a women’s size 9 shoe, our L/XL size is likely the appropriate size. If your measurements put you between sizes, know that our socks are slightly looser in the foot. If you prefer a more form-fitting sock, you’ll want to choose the smaller size.
Choosing the Right Compression
Light to moderate compression is the best choice if you’re wearing compression socks for exercise or another non-medical purpose. Between 20 and 30mmHg of pressure should be plenty to experience the benefits of compression socks without interfering with your circulation.
Some of the best compression socks for workouts are those with graduated compression to keep them in place and significantly improve circulation. Nurse Yard’s design offers graduated compression from ankle to knee. The cushioned ankle provides 30mmHg of medium-firm compression, while the no-slip cuff hugs your leg with 20mmHg of lighter pressure.
Nurse Yard Compression Socks for Exercise
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to protect your feet and reduce leg swelling during and after a workout, Nurse Yard compression socks are what you’re looking for. Some compression socks only offer pressure—with our compression sock design, you get much more than that.
Cushioned ankles plus a no-slip cuff and graduated presser come together to create comfortable, effective compression socks that stay in place all day long. Learn more and check out available styles today.