Tuesday Takedown: Compression Socks Put to the Test

I have to admit, I've heard the buzz on knee-high compression socks boosting running performance and improving recovery for quite some time, and have even done a little research on the subject to determine if I should be the next convert that says goodbye to ankle-high socks and hello to awkward tan lines. "Increase oxygen delivery." "Decrease lactic acid." "Prevent cramps." "Minimize muscle fatigue." In theory, that sounds great. But then you get to the part where researcher after researcher explain that little to no evidence exists supporting the claim that these garments actually do improve performance during exercise. But then something pretty spectacular happened last month. Meb Keflezighi became the first American to win the Boston Marathon in 31 years — and he did it wearing knee-high compression socks. 

That got me thinking about my own marathon. In November, I'll run my third marathon, but my first in nearly a decade and I recognize it will be a great challenge, but it's one I'm excited to embrace as this will be my last race as a 30-something. When I last ran the marathon, I was a 20-something. The harsh reality is I am now older, fatter and slower. Yep, I've hit the depressing trifecta for a runner. I can't control the first but I can control the last two. Needing any performance advantage I can get at this point in my life, I decided to turn to CEP compression socks for help, and to see if these socks could work their magic with me.

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