Our research was conducted at the Sports & Science Laboratory- Jacques Rogge at Ghent University which is ranked as one of the top 10 sports & science universities in the world.

The study focused on evaluating the impact of RVE compression on the performance and recovery of runners. Twenty-five physically active participants aged 18-27, who trained 2-3 times per week, took part. They performed identical running training sessions five times under five compression conditions: four with different compression shorts and one with loose-fitting shorts (CONTROL).

Results indicated a positive effect of RVE technology on athlete recovery and performance.

Independent results have shown a significant decrease in CK-values amongst the athletes. Through blood sample analysis an average decrease in CK values 20% after 24h and 48h was measured. Outperforming the nearest compression competitor (A-level) by 7%.

CK or creatine kinase is an enzyme that leaks out of damaged muscle. It is often used as a marker to indicate muscle damage. When elevated CK levels are found in a blood sample, it usually means muscle is being destroyed. So it’s very important to keep this value as low as possible. The RVE technology enables athletes to keep their intensive training schedule while minimising the risk of muscle damage. And so, boosting the recovery process.

Through objective testing, using a subjective scale (0-10), the effect of RVE compression on muscle fatigue and soreness (DOMS) was determined. Results showed a tendency of decreasing the DOMS after 24 and 48 hours.

DOMS or Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a subjective marker (on a scale of 1-10) to measure the pain and stiffness felt in muscles several hours to days after unaccustomed or strenuous exercise. The soreness is felt most strongly 24 to 72 hours after the exercise and can be decreased with the right amount of compression.

Additional tests were conducted at speeds of 10KM/H, 12KM/H, and at high intensity. Results showed an average increase in running economy by 5%. Outmatching nearest competitor (A-level) by 3,5%. In addition, a trend to significant lower rates of perceived exertion during these tests were found.

Running economy measures a runners’ energy utilization when running at an aerobic speed. It is measured in ml O2/(km.kg) Those who are able to consume less oxygen while running at a given velocity are said to have a better running economy.

The Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) is measured using the Borg Scale. It runs from 6 (no exertion at all) to 20 (Maximal exertion) and is a way to measure the physical activity intensity level.