Made to Measure Compression Garments for Recovery in Rugby Players

Aims * To compare the compression pressures exerted by made-to-measure compression garments (CG) with those from standard sized garments * To assess the efficacy of custom fitted, high pressure CG for facilitating the recovery of strength, muscular power and sprint performance, and to compare the effects with those of garments exerting lower pressures and a sham treatment Rationale for study design The results of a recent meta-analysis (unpublished data) have informed the design of this study. The conclusions of the meta-analysis were that CG are most effective for the recovery of: * Force and power performance following eccentric/plyometric exercise * Maximal force production, at least 24 hours post-exercise (for example in strength and power athletes undertaking resistance training programmes) * Additionally, the recovery of high-intensity cardiovascular performance may also be enhanced by the used of CG, when tested 24 hours following exercise which incurs metabolic stress Accordingly, the current study was designed to investigate the effects of CG on the recovery of force, muscular power and sprint performance in rugby players over a 48 hour period following damaging exercise. The exercise protocol chosen (detailed below) provided both mechanical and metabolic recovery demands.