Preconditioning with peristaltic external pneumatic compression does not acutely improve repeated Wingate performance nor does it alter blood lactate concentrations during passive recovery compared with sham.

Application of dynamic external pneumatic compression (EPC) during recovery from athletic activities has demonstrated favorable effects on flexibility, soreness, swelling, and blood lactate (BLa) concentrations. However, the effects of "preconditioning" with a peristaltic pulse EPC device on subsequent performance and BLa concentrations have not been characterized. Herein, we demonstrate that pretreatment for 30 min with EPC has no effect on subsequent supramaximal exercise performance or BLa concentrations during passive recovery.

Acute Effects of Peristaltic Pneumatic Compression on Repeated Anaerobic Exercise Performance and Blood Lactate Clearance.

External pneumatic compression (EPC) use in athletics is increasing. However, there is a paucity of evidence supporting the effectiveness of EPC in aiding recovery and performance. We sought to determine the efficacy of EPC for acute recovery of anaerobic power and lactate clearance following a fatigue protocol.