“Applying external compression can reduce soft tissue vibrations without compromising neuromuscular performance during strenuous physical activities that involve exposure to impact-induced vibrations,” the study read. The study concluded that compression is an effective tool to limit excessive vibration in fairly straightforward terms.

Similarly, a 2021 study ( 5) observed a dozen male athletes performing drop jumps, with an eye on muscle activation and soft tissue vibration. So in mitigating vibrations from running, jumping, lifting, and so on compression shorts are effectively prolonging your up time.Ī 2019 study ( 4) on the effect of thigh compression shorts on cyclists found compression gear effective in reducing vibration during rides. Vibrations in your soft tissue requires muscle to compensate and maintain balance, which fatigues you faster. That squeeze reduces vibrations and shaking-both noticeable and subliminal-that occurs during exercise. Stabilize musclesĬompression shorts and compression clothing in general squeezes your body. Overall, there is more science supporting blood flow improvements and recovery advantages than any other benefit. Another study ( 4) found wearing compression gear while running “indicated large positive effects” for post-run soreness and muscle fatigue. Wearing compression shorts and compression gear in general is proven to help in this regard.Ī 2017 study ( 1) found wearing compression shorts boosted strength recovery for competitive cyclists.

The rate and quality of your recovery will determine your ability to maintain or progress your fitness routine. No matter what your workout regimen is like, the ultimate limiter-more so than even hours in the day-is recovery. All of the benefits that follow increased circulation are because of increased circulation. Compressing the muscles encourages blood flow, which means more oxygen ( 2) is getting to your muscles, which means better and longer workouts. If you’re familiar with compression therapy, you likely know that compressing the body improves circulation, which is both therapeutic and the primary reason compression shorts are worn at all (that, and to prevent chafing). What Do Compression Shorts for Men Do? Encourage blood flow Best Running Tight: Brooks Mens Short Tight, $54.Best Nike Compression Short: Nike AeroSwift Running Tights, $85.Best Light Compression Short: Rhone Essentials Active Brief, $38.Best for CrossFit and Lifting: Wolaco North Moore Short, $58.Best Budget Option: Under Armour HeatGear Compression Short, $30.Best for Running: Lululemon Rapid Vent Tech Boxer, $38.Best Overall Compression Short: Ten Thousand Compression Short, $54.Here are the best compression shorts for men I tested, and everything you need to know to pick the right ones for you.

I wore a dozen sets of compression shorts through heavy lifting sessions, tennis matches, soccer games, CrossFit, and plenty of runs. It’s worn because it’s proven to enhance recovery ( 1), and more anecdotally, provides wearers that extra oomph to push through the last half-mile of a run, or squeeze out just one more rep. Believe it or not, compression shorts-indeed, all compression gear-isn’t worn while working out (and after) for the joys of wearing skintight clothing.

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