Effects of pressure from compression running tights on electromyogram, electrocardiogram, and respiratory functions while running

In this study, the basic guidelines of pressure design for compression running tights (Cp-type tights) with excellent work efficiency were derived. Three kinds of compression tights and one kind of normal tights as a control were tested. These compression tights featured a combination of two different stretch portions: soft and hard. Six female subjects aged 22-27 years were engaged for the study. They were asked to run at a speed of 8 km/h on a treadmill for 35 min. The following parameters were measured through wearing experiments: clothing pressure, electromyogram, electrocardiogram, respiratory rate, and minute ventilation. EMG analysis was conducted using the integrated EMG (iEMG). The iEMG decreased with increasing clothing pressure in each part of the Cp-type tights except at the inner side of the lower leg. The mean power frequency increased as the iEMG decreased. From this, it was found that the clothing pressure of Cp-type tights efficiently supported posture-holding muscles and suppressed vibration in the thigh and lower leg muscles, thereby reducing muscle load and muscle fatigue. The heart rate, sympathetic nervous activity, and minute ventilation also tended to be low at high clothing pressure. However, it is necessary to design the clothing such that the pressure around the inside of the lower legs is not high enough to cause swelling due to muscle contraction. © 2020 Japan Research Association for Textile End-Uses. All rights reserved.