If you haven’t been following my blog, I signed up for my first half marathon on November 16, 2014. I’ve never been a runner. In fact, I’ve actually written a post on why I will never be a runner. However, time and time again I get this urge to try again. I’m so glad I did. This time around running (although I’m very slow) seems to be sticking with me. It’s my “me time”, and something I’ve challenged myself with.
One of the things that have really been helping me accomplish my miles are my CEP Compression socks. I have shin pain of unknown origin and it can get really really painful. I had heard that CEP Compression socks can be helpful, so I was excited when I was sent a pair for review. At first I was a bit nervous, for some reason I thought they were for ‘serious’ runners. I’m glad I learned that wasn’t true, because these socks have been very helpful in helping me get through my longer runs!
I don’t know if it’s the warmth or the compression itself, but running in my CEP compression socks have me feeling like I could eek out more miles. Plus wearing them after my runs has helped cut down on my post run pain. I feel like if I had discovered them a few years ago I wouldn’t have given up on running so many times.
I was actually able to talk with a CEP spokesperson about the benefits of compression socks and who should be using them and how/why they work.
How does the compression work?
Every muscle cell in the body needs energy in the form of oxygen. This is transported to the muscles via the blood. The better the blood flow in the body, the better the muscles are supplied with oxygen and nutrients. CEP compression socks apply consistent compression to the calf, allowing the arterial walls to relax and the flow of oxygen-rich blood to increase by up to 40%. More oxygen means more power during performance and a faster recovery. Graduated medical grade compression that is tighter at the ankle improves vein health by reducing the veins’ diameter and pushing de-oxygenated blood back to the heart. Even when an athlete is at rest, CEP compression socks increase blood circulation by up to 30%** shortening recovery time.
What sets CEP apart from other compression socks?
CEP uses the science behind medical compression to help maximize performance and recovery. The compression is tightest in the ankle and gradually decreases in pressure as it comes up the leg. This graduated compression profile promotes the return of venous blood through the circulatory system. We measure calf circumference to ensure proper compression and compression is lower in the calf to effectively target the arteries and allow proper blood flower to the heart. The socks are anatomically correct with left and right feet.
Do you have to be a serious runner? Who can benefit from compression?
You do not have to be a serious runner to wear CEP socks. All athletes can benefit from the compression. Compression socks can also help non-athletes to reduce pain and fatigue, reduce swelling of the foot, ankle and leg, and prevent spider or varicose veins.
Are there any times one shouldn’t work out with the CEP socks?
No. Athletes of all types are encouraged to wear CEP.
Common mistakes when using compression socks?
It is super important to make sure you aren’t stretching your socks up, or pulling them up your leg. This can cause the elongation of the sock which leads to the sock coming up over your knee.
Make sure you don’t fold, cuff or scrunch the top of the sock. This can cause a doubling of the compression in the doubled area.
Washing and care instructions are easy to follow. We recommend laundering after every use. The 6 month every day guarantee ensures your CEP compression will perform if you were to wear them every day, 6 months in a row.
**Published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning
Well, whatever CEP is doing, it’s working! I’ve already bought myself two more pairs.
Connect with CEP on Facebook and Twitter.
Giveaway:
CEP has generously offered to give a pair of their Run 2.0 CEP compression socks in winner’s choice of color/size to one lucky Our Knight Life reader! $60 Value!
Please use the below form to enter. Giveaway ends on 9/29 at 11:59pm and is open to US only.
I was sent a pair of CEP compression socks for review. All my thoughts and opinions are honest and my own. Affiliate links may be included.
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Jenilee Whisler says
I’ve recently begun my own fitness journey, and I’m thinking these will help me!
Annie Behr says
These look great! I have two half marathons starting in January.
Melissa P. says
I have also recently started running and have bad shin splints. I have been considering buying some compression socks and/or sleeves, so this is right upy alley!!!
Lesli says
Compression socks are great! Good luck with your training!
Emily says
I am training for a marathon, too! Would love to add these to my running gear!
Em Mahr says
I’ve recently discovered compression socks and I absolutely love them! I really like the support they offer my calves while running. I’d like to win because I currently only have 1 pair and could definitely use more!
Nicole says
I am getting back into running after a long break following an injury. My muscles are going to be tired!
Heidi says
I have two young boys and am just out of my breast feeding/ baby wearing/ cloth diapering season and ready to train for my first half marathon! I think these would be a great option to keep me in the game for the long runs!! Thanks!
Jeffrey says
I’ve heard great things about compression in regards to recovery for marathon runners and have found that as I get older the soreness lingers longer! I’m running marathons on back to back weekends next month, first time I’m trying it and probably will be the last! Thanks for the opportunity to win some healing power.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
Love Compression! So great for recovery and just getting comfy!
Christine @ Love, Life, Surf says
Compression socks have been a big part of my recovery this past year and for helping to keep a cranky shin happy during my runs!
Laurel C says
I love compression socks!
Amber Campbell says
I’d love a pair of compression socks to help me keep soreness and pain away when I run! Thank you for the giveaway.
Sadie B. says
I would like to win and try these on my long run days.
Jessica says
I would love to win because compression socks have been recommend to me by a few different people now, but the cost has kept me from trying them for myself.
Jodi's Legs Hurt says
I’d love some of these. I dig compression everything.
Connie says
I have been a runner for most of my life. I have given up in the last year but would like to get back to it. I would love to try these socks to see the difference they make.
Jessie Emeric says
I’d love to win these because I do love compression socks, but haven’t tried these out yet and would like to check them out.
Teresa says
These would be great for recovery from my long runs.
latanya says
They are perfect for training.
Karla says
because they make your legs feel so much better!