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Soon after I started really getting intorunningandtraining for half-marathons, I learned about compression clothing.

Woman running in Nike Zonal Strength Tights

Courtesy of Nike

My legs hurt, and anything that could help was worth trying, right?

But recently I’ve started to wonder: Are these fancy pants really doing anything?

People with this complication are often instructed by their doctors to wear compression stockings.

Woman wearing Nike Zonal Strength Training Tights

Courtesy of Nike

They work by essentially guiding blood toward the heart and increasing the speed and volume at which it flows.

And then whatever findings one study comes out with, the next study shows the opposite.

This makes it hard to draw conclusions for a larger population of athletes.

Athleta compression leggings on model

Courtesy of Athleta

Most studies show that its not going to help with running performance.

The only real benefits that are shown is time of recovery is slightly improved.

And theres absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Women stretching wearing compression socks and sneakers

Courtesy of Lily Trotters

Its worth wearing them, says Borchers.

If you try it and it does nothing for you, theres no need to keep wearing it.

Some people actually experience negative effects with compression garments, Ferber says.

SKINS compression tights on model

Courtesy of Skins

Restricted blood flow can result in numbness or muscle cramping for some.

If thats you, again, you might ditch it.

It really comes down to trial and error.

And another three will say it doesnt have an effect, Ferber says.

Its also important to note that no recovery technique will be effective on its own.

Getting your zzzs and eating properly to fuel and refuel your body are most important, Licameli says.

Athleta Sculptek Stealth Capri ($89,athleta.com) is another favorite.

Im really into wearing compression socks after training runs.