Comparison of Three Types of Full-Body Compression Garments on Throwing and Repeat-Sprint Performance in Cricket Players

Rob Duffield ^1* and Marc Portus ²

¹ Charles Sturt University, Australia
² Cricket Australia, Australia

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: rduffield{at}csu.edu.au.

Accepted 7 February 2007

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effects of three types of full-body compression garments (Skins®, Adidas® and Under Armour®) on repeat-sprint and throwing performance in cricket players.

Methods: Following familiarisation, 10 male cricket players performed four randomised exercise sessions (3 garments and a control). Each session involved a 30-min repeat-sprint exercise protocol comprising 20-m sprints every minute separated by sub- maximal exercise. Throwing tests included a pre and post- exercise maximal distance test and accuracy throwing tests. During each session, measures of heart rate, skin temperature, change in body mass, rate of perceived exertion and perceived muscle soreness were recorded. Capillary blood samples were analysed pre and post- exercise for lactate, pH, O₂ saturation, O₂ partial pressure and 24 h post-exercise for Creatine Kinase (CK). Ratings of perceived muscle soreness were also obtained 24 h post-exercise.

Results: No significant differences (p>0.05) were evident in repeat-sprint performance (10-m, 20-m time or total sub-maximal distance covered) or throwing performance (max-distance or accuracy). No significant differences (p>0.05) were observed in heart rate, body mass change or blood measures during exercise. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed with a higher mean skin temperature, lower 24 h post-exercise CK values and lower 24 h post-exercise ratings of muscle soreness in compression garments. Analysis between respective brands of compression garments revealed no statistical differences (p>0.05).

Conclusions: No benefit was noted when wearing compression garments for repeat-sprint or throwing performance; however the use of the garments as a recovery tool, when worn following exercise may be beneficial to reduce post-exercise trauma and reduce perceived muscle soreness.

Key Words: compression stockings, intermittent-sprint exercise, recovery, sports performance

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