I run and cycle, among other sports I have tried, compression socks are amazing! They work especially well when you are on your feet all day so consider for post-horse show work. People use them during their workouts as well and boost their athletic performance, however, I think the key time to use is post-exercise to assist in recovery.
Compression Socks Benefits:
- Improve circulation, therefore, improving recovery time
- The microfibers support the muscles in the leg, offering support and giving your muscles a break
- Helps relieve pain
- Helps with edema and swelling
- Reduces the risk of blood clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- Helps with fatigue of muscles
2XU would be my choice in human compression socks, also they have compression items for other body parts like arms, full upper body, shoulders, full legs, and thighs. Same with Equifit, which has compression items for other joints of the horse.
Human compression sock, comes in cute colors buy here
So if it helps with all that on humans, why wouldn't it help our best equine friend?! Equifit seems to think so, they have a huge product line of compression type items that also emit mineral oil. Some riders use it after heavy work or during. (people also wear compression socks during workout, but I personal feel like the difference is recovery so just throw them on after your ride). It's the same thought concept as a standing wrap but these socks are more advance and will yield better results.
Another use for these would be to place under your brush boots to add extra protecting out on the cross country course, fox hunt, or hack through tall grass. Also great for bed sore protection!
Gel Sock by Equifit
Recovery compression pumps would be a step up from just the compression socks, they provide all the benefits of the compression socks plus some. In addition they assist in removing waste from the body (free radicals that form after heavy exercise) to aide in recovery. Most pumps have a hand held or electronic piece that actually pumps you or your horse's legs. They kind of slowly compression until hey are squeezing your left for about 1-2 minutes then release, then repeat again. Very effective and relaxing.
Recovery Pump For People
And the equine version, which also provides ice therapy (feasibly you could buy the equine version and use it on you!)
Equifit has ton's of other recovery and support products, so check it out.
Who uses these horse compression items, well some big names like Karen O'Conner, McLain Ward, Phillip Dutton, and much more!
No comments:
Post a Comment