A Preliminary Investigation of the Efficacy of Far-Infrared-Emitting Garments in Enhancing Objective and Subjective Recovery Following Resistance Exercise.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of far-infrared (FIR) garments in enhancing recovery following resistance exercise in recreationally active individuals. Methods: Ten recreationally active adults (six females, four males; aged 20.7 ± 3.2 years) completed a resistance exercise protocol and were randomly selected to wear either FIR (n = 5) or placebo (n = 5) tights post-exercise. The FIR garments incorporated Celliant-based fibers emitting wavelengths in the 2.5-20 µm range. The participants' recovery was assessed using countermovement jump (CMJ) metrics, including their jump height, takeoff velocity, and modified reactive strength index (mRSI), along with their fatigue biomarkers and subjective recovery perceptions. The CMJ performance was tested immediately post-exercise and at 24 and 48 h. Results: The FIR garments led to significant improvements in neuromuscular recovery, with greater increases in the jump height, takeoff velocity, and mRSI observed at 48 h post-exercise (p < 0.05). Notably, the mRSI showed earlier improvements at 24 h. The fatigue biomarkers did not differ between the groups (p > 0.05), suggesting localized rather than systemic recovery effects. The participants in the FIR group reported faster subjective recovery, with a readiness to resume activity perceived within 48 h, compared to slower recovery in the placebo group. Conclusions: FIR garments may enhance neuromuscular recovery and subjective recovery perceptions following resistance exercise, likely by improving the peripheral blood flow, metabolic clearance, and tissue oxygenation. These findings suggest that FIR garments may be effective in enhancing both neuromuscular and perceived recovery following resistance exercise, supporting their potential use as a post-exercise recovery tool.