When we train we stress our muscles.

That stress is a signal for our body to send hormones and other good stuff to the tissues we’ve just worked.

This is inflammation. And it’s a critical part of the recovery process.

The problem is when that inflammation isn’t cleared out.

When it hangs around, we get swelling.

Swelling is what we don’t want.

That’s why recovery protocols that promote blood flow are good.

They help relieve swelling.

Like active recovery (walking, getting in the ocean etc). They get the blood pumping.

Same with compression.

Compression works by putting pressure on the tissue and veins of a muscle.

This pumps the blood back to the heart. Which reduces swelling.

Shown to be significant for recovery (reduce soreness and improve your next performance). Particularly after strength and high-intensity training.

Consider investing if you’re training hard for something.

But even tight clothes like activewear will get you some of the benefits.