Pressure therapy has gained popularity in the sports world, especially among those seeking to improve performance and speed up muscle recovery. This technique, which uses controlled compression to improve circulation and reduce muscle fatigue, is increasingly used by runners and all types of athletes. After long training sessions or competitions, the legs often accumulate tension and fatigue, and this is where pressotherapy comes into play to help the athlete.
Every day we get questions about which pressotherapy boots or pants to buy, what are the differences between them and which are the most suitable depending on the type of exercise or sport you do.
That's why in this article, we look at the different pressotherapy devices designed to meet the recovery needs of runners of different levels. We explore the key features of each to help you choose the most suitable equipment for your sporting profile, focusing on how this technology can specifically benefit runners and trail runners.
What is pressotherapy and why is it useful for runners?
Before going into the details of each device, it is important to understand what pressotherapy is and why it is beneficial for the athlete. Pressure therapy is a treatment that uses a controlled compression system using padded garments. This process stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation, helping to reduce muscle soreness, reduce inflammation and speed up recovery after an intense workout or long run.
For runners and trail runners, pressotherapy is especially useful to:
- Reduce recovery time after an intense training session.
- Decrease the risk of injuries, such as muscle fatigue, pain or inflammation in the legs.
- Improve blood circulation, which promotes better sports performance.
- Prevent the onset of the dreaded feeling of heavy legs after long or uneven distances.
Sizen is the number one brand in Spain in pressotherapy devices, recognized for the high quality of their products. Their equipment is designed to optimize muscle recovery and improve sports performance. In addition, several studies support that pressotherapy helps to reduce blood lactate concentration, accelerating recovery after intense workouts.
Comparison of Sizen models
Each Sizen model offers specific features, and your choice will depend largely on your activity level, recovery needs and budget. Here are the differences between the different models:
Sizen 4+
The Sizen 4+ is one of the most basic models in the brand's products range, but it is still effective.
- Compression chambers: It has 4 chambers, which means that it exerts pressure on four different areas of the leg.
- Treatment programs: It offers 4 massage programs to improve muscle recovery.
- Rechargeable battery: One of its advantages is that it includes a rechargeable battery with an autonomy of up to 3h, making it a portable and convenient option to use anywhere.
- Indications: Ideal for occasional athletes, those who practice running for fun or who do not train at competitive levels.
Recommended for recreational runners who train 2-3 times per week and are looking for faster and more effective recovery after moderate workouts.
Sizen 6e
Taking it up a notch, the Sizen 6e is an advanced option with enhanced features compared to the Sizen 4+.
- Compression Chambers: Features 6 chambers, allowing for greater coverage and more personalized compression on the legs.
- Treatment programs: 4 programs, just like the 4+.
- Rechargeable battery: It does not have a rechargeable battery, so it requires a power connection during use.
- Indications: More suitable for runners who train more regularly and face more demanding sessions or longer distances and need recovery in more specific areas.
Recommended for regular runners who train several times a week, participate in short to medium distance races and want to accelerate recovery after higher intensity workouts.
Sizen 8e
The Sizen 8e is an advanced model with an even more specific compression system.
- Compression Chambers: It has 8 chambers, allowing for more precise compression in different areas of the leg, improving circulation more effectively.
- Treatment programs: With a wider range of programs, it allows maximum customization of the pressotherapy session depending on the type of muscle fatigue or pain being treated.
- Rechargeable battery: It does not have a rechargeable battery, so it must be plugged in during use.
- Indications: Suitable for athletes who train more intensely and frequently, such as long-distance runners or trail runners who face uneven and complicated terrain.
Recommended for trail runners and marathon runners who are physically demanding in every workout, with intense days or regular competitions, where fast recovery is crucial to maintain performance.
Sizen 6+
The Sizen 6+ adds more advanced features compared to the 6e model, designed for more professional or intensive use.
- Compression Chambers: It has 6 chambers, offering more pressure points than models like the Sizen 4+, allowing for deeper drainage and massage. The greater the number of chambers, the more precise and effective compression is achieved in specific areas, improving muscle recovery.
- Treatment programs: Integrates advanced options to further customize treatments, ideal for athletes who need specific recovery programs according to their daily training.
- Rechargeable battery: Includes a rechargeable battery with up to 6h of autonomy and carrying bag, making it ideal to take them both to training sessions and on weekends to races.
- Indications: Ideal for those who practice running or trail running seriously and regularly, especially if alternating with other disciplines or cross-training.
Recommended for runners who are looking for more control over their recovery and need a device with more adjustment options and precision to adapt to different types of workouts.
Sizen 8 Pro
Finally, the most advanced model is the Sizen 8 Pro, designed for high-performance and professional athletes.
- Compression chambers: It has 8 chambers, just like the Sizen 8e.
- Treatment programs: Offers the largest number of programs and customization possibilities. Unlike other models, the Sizen 8 Pro and 8e include two exclusive programs for 8-chamber equipment and allows you to memorize your sessions, which means that it remembers the time, pressure and mode settings of the last session according to the selected accessory (boots, pants, etc.). This means that, when you turn on the equipment, the values you used last time are already adjusted, saving time and facilitating constant use.
- Rechargeable battery: It has a rechargeable battery with up to 6 hours of autonomy, making it a fully portable device for use anywhere without having to be connected to a power source. In addition, it also comes with its own carrying bag.
- Indications: This device is suitable for athletes training at a professional or semi-professional level, such as long distance trail runners, ultrarunners or elite runners.
Recommended for professional runners, ultrarunners and high-level athletes who need maximum customization and control over their recovery to perform at 100% in every race or training.
All Sizen models are packed with advanced features that ensure an optimal user experience. Each device offers an adjustable massage time of up to 60 minutes, with 25 pressure levels that can reach up to 250 mmHg. The equipment is easily managed via Bluetooth and an APP, allowing you to customize your pressotherapy sessions easily. They are also very quiet, operating at 45 dB, providing a relaxing experience without interruptions. In addition, all models are backed by a 3 year warranty, ensuring the quality and durability of the products.
What is the difference between pressotherapy boots and pants?
One of the doubts that people often have when choosing between one product or another is also often whether to choose boots or pants, and what is the difference between them, and it is that each has specific characteristics and applications.
Pressotherapy pants cover the entire leg, including the buttocks and upper thigh area, which allows for a more comprehensive treatment and uniform compression in larger areas. They are ideal for athletes seeking full recovery of the lower extremities after intense training or competitions.
In contrast, pressotherapy boots focus primarily on compression of the calves and feet. In addition, boots are usually easier to put on and take off, making them a practical option for quick recovery sessions. In summary, the choice between pressure therapy pants and boots will depend on the individual needs of the athlete and the intensity of their training.
- Sizen 4+: Available in boot format.
- Sizen 6e: Available in boot and pant format.
- Sizen 6+: Available in boot and pants format.
- Sizen 8e: Available in boot and pants format.
- Sizen 8 Pro: Available in boots and pants format.
All Sizen models allow the incorporation of additional accessories, such as shorts, arm sleeve, abdominal-lumbar belt, boots and/or pants, with the exception of the 4+ model, which is the most basic of the brand and is only compatible with boots.
Which one to choose according to your profile?
Now that you know the differences between the models, here is a quick guto choose the most suitable for you according to your level and needs:
Occasional runners
If you run occasionally and are just looking for a tool to help you improve your recovery after moderate sessions, the Sizen 4+ is an economical and effective option.
Regular runners
If you train several times a week and participate in occasional races, the Sizen 6e or Sizen 6+ will provide adequate recovery with greater coverage and customization.
Trail runners or advanced runners
If you run long distances or face uneven terrain, the Sizen 8e will give you the coverage and precision needed for full recovery after more demanding workouts. If you compete at a very high level, the Sizen 8 Pro is the most advanced model that will allow you to adjust each session according to the demands of your workouts or competitions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pressure therapy equipment depends on your specific needs as an athlete. Recreational runners will find economical and effective options in the Sizen 4+, while more advanced runners and trail runners can benefit from more sophisticated models such as the Sizen 8e or Sizen 8 Pro. If you are looking to optimize your recovery and prevent injuries, a Sizen pressure therapy device will be an invaluable ally in your sports routine.
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