Sponsored post

When I was exercising more and in the whole gym, crossfit, tabata and DOMS frame of mind, I read a lot of blogs about health and fitness. I noticed those – particularly the ‘hardcore’ out there doing marathons, extreme bootcamps and the like – seemed to be talking A LOT about compression clothing.

I knew the garments weren’t cheap and saw them as an essential only for the elite athletes, or those working REALLY hard, so I paid little attention. Although I was doing enough to be sore from time to time, it hardly mattered if I was sore from a pump class when I went to do a circuit or dance class the following day.

Of course now my exercise takes place in fits and starts. I’m carrying a lot more weight so get sore from a gentle walk. And after burlesque… well… #ouch.

So, when I was contacted by Australian company o2fit to try their range of compression wear I jumped at the chance. Well… I walked with a spring in my step!

The benefits of compression clothing

Runners and cyclists have long been aware of the benefits of compression wear in improving athletic performance and recovery, but the Australian Sports Commission has identified a range of ways in which compression garments can offer a competitive advantage more broadly. More specifically it suggests, “Compression garments may offer several ergogenic benefits for athletes across a multitude of sporting backgrounds.” 

Now I don’t really know what ergogenic means. But it sounds impressive. Indeed, the Commission’s site along with the o2fit site cite (hee hee!) very specific benefits to do with:

• Enhanced blood circulation
• Reduced muscle oscillation upon ground contact
• Increased torque generated about joints, improving performance and reducing the risk of injury
• Enhanced recovery following strenuous exercise by aiding in the removal of blood lactate and improving subsequent exercise performance
• Reduced effects of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in the days following strenuous exercise.

And because I DO understand SOME of that – and know many peeps who ‘swear’ by compression wear – I’m convinced.

The o2fit difference

o2fit offer compression garments at affordable prices. That means it doesn’t matter if you’re not an elite athlete or participating in marathons or triathlons; it means they’re not off-limits to the *amateur* athletes out there. Or… you know…  those who like to keep fit and healthy but who still want to minimise muscle soreness, recovery time and not struggle to lift children, rush to the bus or… even sit on the loo, in the days following a workout.

My experience

I received a singlet top and ¾ pants to try. The singlet top will never been seen without something big and baggy over it (unless I suddenly lose 60kg) but it’s great for keeping everything *ahem* in place.

Similarly – although I’m not running marathons – in my dance class and when using my jogging trampoline, the compression pants make my back and troublesome hips feel more supported, allowing me to feel more confident. As an added bonus they also stop everything wobbling quite as much, which I definitely appreciate as it makes me feel less self-conscious.

I like the pink / blue branding on the o2fit gear… in fact the pink print and colouring is kinda cute. I just wish I had the sort of body which would allow me to comfortably and confidently flaunt my new gear in public!

And for one lucky reader…

I’m obviously sold and to help promote its range, o2fit is giving away not just one, but TWO items to one of my readers: a top and bottom (of your choice)!

All you need to do is tell me: what you would choose from the o2fit range and what you’d use/wear them for.

* I’m going to pass the entries over to o2fit team to choose the winner based on the ingeniousness of your answer.

This comp isn’t dependent on you liking o2fit’s Facebook page but it’d be nice karma if you did.

Terms & conditions: This competition closes at 5pm AEST Tuesday 25 February 2014 and is only open to Australian residents. THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED. THANKS TO THOSE WHO ENTERED.

Disclaimer – I received a compression singlet and pants from o2fit and the company is providing prizes for this giveaway but the views expressed in this post are entirely my own. Check out the full range on their website. 

I’m flogging my blog With Some Grace today.