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On the Track with Alisa Harvey: Gearing-up for Performance
By Alisa Harvey
November/December 2009
For the Washington Running Report
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During my days as a teenage runner my complete training outfit consisted of a cotton t-shirt, a pair of non-descript athletic shorts, cotton tube socks, and running shoes. Since those teen years there have been major leaps in performance apparel designs and fabrics. I have had the vast experience of owning large to extra-small performance gear since my 5'2" body has fluctuated from 110 pounds as an elite runner to 145 pounds after two pregnancies, back to 110 pounds as an elite masters runner. My needs for my full-figured body were the same as what I needed back in high school and what I need today: compression, skin protection, and breathability.
As my extra body weight came off, I adjusted my running gear by purchasing smaller sizes, but I still sought the security of compression gear on my upper and lower body. As my running performances improved it was important that I maintained a consistent amount of tension on my body in order to decrease bounce, avoid chaffing, and control movement.
Performance gear that provides compression is made from technical synthetic stretch fabrics such as spandex, nylon, polyester, and Lycra. When we ask our bodies to run continuously or quickly these movements are often interrupted by bouncing, jiggling, jostling, and rubbing. Excess body movements can cause skin and tissue injuries which can lead to a decrease in performance. Compressing excess body tissue movement allows the body to move easier. Ease of movement will equal faster running performances. Better performances often lead to an increased desire to run.
With the proper gear a runner will be able to run quickly with comfort even if carrying extra body weight. Due to the temperature control properties of the advanced technical running gear, a runner's body will not overheat or become chilled while training in technical apparel. One garment can offer compression, temperature control, as well as chaffing protection. The amount of tension required per article of clothing depends on the individual's size, particular needs, and comfort. As with any tight-fitting garment, care needs to be taken to not have too much tension applied to the body, thus running the risk of compromising an individual's circulation, not to mention an embarrassing burst at the seams. On the other hand, too little tension offered by sports performance gear will not offer enough support for some areas of the body.
Now that I am settled into my competitive days as a masters runner, I don't expect to encounter any major fluctuations of weight gain or loss. I have amassed a good deal of running attire throughout the years; however, I am always anxiously awaiting the latest technology in performance gear.
Before every workout and competition, I make a well-thought decision about what to wear and I weigh factors such as weather, duration of run, type of run, and effort. Good decisions translate to good performance, something I always think about when I choose what to wear on the track.
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PERFORMANCE GEAR TIPS
BRAS - Eliminate the bounce. Get measured by a professional. Full "C"-cups and larger need the support offered by adjustable high-impact bras. Expect to pay $45 and up.
TOPS - Compression tops can give extra support for large breasts, round bellies, and post-baby abdomens. Long sleeve compression tops are excellent for cold weather track workouts.
BOTTOMS - Running tights are offered in all lengths; boy shorts, mid thigh, below the knee, and full-length. Tight fitting bottoms control the bounce of full hips, and protect insides of the thighs from chaffing.
UNDERWEAR - Synthetic stretch undergarments offer support for men; mid-thigh length. Women's synthetic stretch undergarments are offered in briefs, bikini, and thong.
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