The benefits of using compression pumps within sports
Sports woman trialling Rebound Sports Recovery compression leg garment and pump.
Team sports at the elite level is an entertainment business.
People come to support and cheer on their team and, hopefully, see them win!
The level of sports competitions also filters down to the semi-professional and then down to your average weekend warrior who may even enjoy a beer after the game.
At all levels, the body is put through rigorous stress during training, games and competition.
Whilst the elite level athletes have masseurs, performance managers and physiotherapists on hand to support the players, lower down the support can be somewhat non-existent.
Sequential intermittent pneumatic compression pumps have gained popularity in sports medicine as athletes are trying to gain an edge in their own recovery and performance. Similarly, there has been a recent push for clubs and athletes to use ice baths after exercise. You may notice home ice bath setups being offered via retail outlets as they gain popularity. The rise of ice baths and soon to be compression pumps is due to the low cost and ease of use to help your body recover and relax.
This means all levels of athlete can look after their bodies and perform at their best.
Overall, compression pumps are a popular choice among athletes and sports medicine professionals alike. Here are the most commonly played sports that benefit from compression pumps:
Basketball: Basketball players are known for their intense training schedules and frequent games. Additionally, travel plays a big component. Repetitive actions like pivoting, running and jumping in basketball can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness.
AFL: Both games and training sessions expose the body to high velocity and high load efforts. This takes a toll on the players’ bodies. Compression pump usage can be incorporated into their recovery protocols to reduce muscle soreness, inflammation, and the risk of injuries associated with high-impact play.
Cycling: Cyclists often rely on SIPC to aid in muscle recovery after long rides and intense training sessions. The repetitive pedalling motion can lead to fatigue and tightness.
One of the most common sports that utilise IPC recovery.
Track and Field: The high intensity nature of track and field events such as sprinting, long distance and jumping lead to accumulating fatigue and soreness from pushing the body at 100%. Compression pumps help to speed up the recovery process.
Soccer: Similar to AFL and basketball, the running, jumping, pivoting and unexpected contact leads to sore and tired bodies. When recovery isn’t managed, injuries start to accrue especially in the hamstrings for soccer players. Compression pumps can be used in a changeroom before or after training.