In an effort to decrease recovery time or probably just provide a placebo mental edge, I’ve gone overboard in purchasing running apparel. I believe there is a science to compression wear; it just seems to make sense. Compression apparel provides thermoregulation, increases circulation, and reduces muscle oscillation. For those less scientific readers (including myself prior to reading the benefits of compression wear) it means: it keeps muscles warm, increases blood flow, and prevents muscles from vibrating or unnecessary movement (energy).
Starting the probably unnecessary, but confidence building purchases was a pair of knee-high Saucony Compression socks. I wear them after my runs and by the following morning my legs seem to have more pep than usual and less pain. Due to the tightness of the material, the socks can sometimes be difficult to put on, but probably the most difficultly comes from justifying buying a pair of socks for $25.
The next purchase came just hours later (It should be noted that online shopping is very addicting like QVC), when I purchased a pair of Croc Prepairs (Shouldn’t they be called Repairs!?!) The Croc Prepairs boast the ability to enhance recover after athletic activity by reducing peak pressure by up to 50%, reducing peak muscular effort by 24.6% and provide an improved opportunity for blood flow and fatigue relief. It should be noted that the US Ergonomics testing of Crocs Prepair footwear was performed by Crocs Inc. so actual percentages may vary from 49% to total crap, but either way I swear I can tell the difference.
Marathon Training Update: I had a great 14 mile run on Saturday, maintaining a pace of 8:33 per mile. I don’t know what the difference was between last Saturday (12 miles of difficulty) and this Saturday, but whatever I did differently, it worked. I am really happy about two things: 1) I found some great energy gels: Clif Shot Blocks: Cran Razz flavor, best tasting gels I’ve had yet and 2) this next week is a recovery week consisting of only three intermediate distance runs, topping out at 6 miles!
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