It's been a bit of time since I've posted (almost 6 months - SHAME because I love this blog! Since I'm getting into WEDDING SHAPE NOW!! woo hoo...a post to follow...I will be making sure to update this with good finds and new things I learn about re-getting into shape haha)
I could blame my lack of posting this on the fact that I've been busy lately getting my nutrition in order, dropping 3% body fat - almost under 20%! - or been busy moving into my new place (in May) - beach or bust! - or simply been busy getting engaged - Mrs. Duke Awesome, oh yea! - but really I have about 5 unfinished posts from the last four months touching upon everything from ClassPass to adult soccer leagues and recipes using spiralizers or protein powder in different baked goods.
Regardless, I decided to start small and just write about something I love, my compression socks. Truth of the matter is, I've seen the most amazing California hiking trails with my (now) fiance and eventually I'll back track and write about each and every one of them, but man - with how much we've done in the last 6 months, it sounds like a SUPER daunting task. From Torrey Pines to the most northern redwoods at Prairie Creek State Park, there is SO much content, and SO much to write about. For me to jump back into Jenistrayning, and get a post up here...we're going to touch upon my expensive, yet super effective socks. Yes, socks. People who use them, swear by them (including myself) and people that see them at the Nike store gasp at the price...
So what is compression wear?
Compression socks, mainly used by marathon runners are said to increase oxygen delivery, decrease lactic acid, prevent cramps and minimize muscle fatigue. Although research shows that there is very little evidence that exists proving compression garments work in athletic and training purposes - in my personal research, performance is through the roof. Cycling, training, jumping, running - my calves are in tact and less cramped from high impact exercises. My muscles do not move sideways or around much at all, making my calves...I don't know... happy? I'm not too worried about the science of it or figuring out exactly how it works - I can just attest to the fact that I like it.
Some have compared the socks or compression wear to the same effect as taking an ice bath. For me, the $50 price point was steep; however, after my OC 1/2 marathon (oh man...ANOTHER post I have in the pipeline!) I've found I've worn these socks roughly 3-4 times a week and would probably wear them every time I trained had I not had to wash them (and hang dry them - I mean they ARE $50 socks, no dryer for those).
Locally, other than Nike, there is a store called 2XU located right in Fashion Island:
http://www.2xu.com
They have a lot of compression technology and might be worth a try. I own compression pants and socks and enjoy both for different training purposes.
Phew I'm back...more to come from JIT. For reals this time... ;)
