7 Benefits of Wearing Compression Gym Leggings

We all have our non-negotiables when it comes to leggings. They shouldn’t need pulling up the whole time (super annoying); they mustn’t be see-through (we’d rather the whole gym didn’t see our underwear); and, of course, they should look great too. When you wear leggings, you’re already ticking those boxes.
But many top athletes choose to up the ante and wear compression leggings, which are leggings with a snugger fit and extra support, with reputed benefits for blood flow and recovery. Compression leggings are a smart choice for all of our everyday workouts, for a variety of reasons:
They can help prevent post-workout soreness
Do you sometimes feel tight, sore and stiff, even days after doing exercise? Research has shown that wearing compression leggings during and after exercise may help ease the symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness (the catchily titled DOMS). The theory is that those tight leggings reduce the vibration of our leg muscles, so we suffer less muscle fatigue.
They’re a runner’s best friend
Compression tights can help when you’re running or doing other high-impact activities by increasing the oxygen levels in your blood, which many runners feel helps their performance. Studies have shown they improve ‘running economy’ – in other words, how much energy your body requires to run at a certain pace. Our Zero Gravity Leggings are a great choice here, as they’re super supportive (like all best friends should be) as well as sweat-wicking and quick-drying.
Marathoners swear by them
While compression leggings can have benefits for all sorts of exercise, those who run long distances – marathon runners or ultra-marathon runners, for example – sometimes choose to wear them for hours after their race, even sleeping in them. Studies back up that this can help aid muscle recovery. Though we think our eye-catching styles are better shown off in public
They keep you toasty
If you’re exercising outside in chilly weather (which, let’s face it, many of us will be in 2021) you’ll need to fight against the cold. Full-length compression leggings keep your muscles warm, helping to prevent injuries. Our Power and Zero Gravity Leggings come in three different lengths, which gives you the flexibility you need depending on your activity and the season.
They can help you hold that tricky yoga position
All Sweaty Betty leggings have a four-way stretch, but because our compression leggings exert gentle pressure on your muscles, they may be able to help you hold yoga positions for longer. We’re not saying you’ll be able to instantly nail a One-Handed Tree Pose or a Wounded Peacock – balancing on one hand is next-level stuff – but our stretchy and supportive Power Leggings might just help you on your way
These babies are squat-proof
When you’re in the gym you’re moving your body in so many different ways that you need support in all the right places. Whether you’re doing squats, lunges, HIIT sessions or lifting weights, a high-waisted, comfortable pair of compression leggings like Super Sculpt will stretch with you, holding you tight like a second skin while never digging in. And – the gym holy grail – they won’t fall down either.
They’re confidence-boosting
Never underestimate the power of feeling and looking good at the gym (or even on your walk to the coffee shop afterwards). Compression leggings are a flattering choice, with awesome bum-sculpting properties. Our Zero Gravity, Super Sculpt and Power Leggings come in dozens of colours and styles, with matching gym vests for extra wow-factor. Whether you’re into animal print, bright and bold or classic black, there’s something for everyone. And when you’re feeling supported and fabulous, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.