Sports compression specialist SKINS reports that a new study into running efficiency and performance has ‘scientifically confirmed the benefits of wearing SKINS sports compression during endurance-based activity.’
According to the company, the full findings, which will be submitted for publication in April, confirmed a ‘measurable improvement’ in runners wearing the latest SKINS’ A400 Dynamic Gradient Compression long tights during fixed intensity running in laboratory conditions.
The independent study was conducted by the University of Essex Human Performance Unit and commissioned by SKINS as part of its product innovation and technology programme. The results have identified a ‘proven benefit in running economy when wearing the new SKINS A400 compression long tights’.
Running economy can be defined as the energy required to run at a set speed and is determined by measuring oxygen uptake (VO2) in laboratory conditions. The research concluded that during steady running at a fixed intensity of 60% VO2 max, running economy was ‘significantly improved when wearing correctly fitted SKINS compression long tights compared to wearing only running shorts’.
Nick Morgan, Director, Sports Integrated, said “Running economy is demonstrated to be a strong predictor of endurance performance, and a better predictor than VO2 max. Put simply, the lower the running economy, the better the endurance athlete.
“Previous studies have shown that an alteration in running technique could be created by the use of compression wear, but the results of this recent study demonstrate the benefits of compression on endurance performance. When wearing correctly fitted SKINS A400 long tights, runners used less energy at a sub-maximal speed (speed consistent with running mid to long distance), compared to when they were wearing only running shorts. SKINS A400 long tights proved more economical and efficient.”
Nic Tierney, Design and Development Director at SKINS, said “It’s widely accepted that runners who are more economical during endurance exercise have the ability to run longer. This study has scientifically proven the benefits of SKINS’ A400 Dynamic Gradient Compression Technology. Between them, the reduced muscle vibration and the cardiovascular benefits of improved circulation promote better running economy. So, wearing SKINS A400 means better endurance performance.”
