Correlation between body resistance and use of Far infrared-emitting garments: An exploratory evaluation

Abstract

Garments capable of generating a Far infrared (FIR) emission within a specific band of infrared electromagnetic radiation between 3μm and 1000μm (according to the classification generally used in physical and rehabilitation medicine) when stimulated are being used progressively and more extensively, especially in the world of sport. The use of FIR is generally associated with the aim of improving performance and optimizing recovery times in athletes. In this preliminary study we investigated the variation of the bioimpedance parameters that occurs when using a fabric (Accapì FIR) capable of generating a FIR infrared emission when stimulated by body heat versus a control fabric in competitive athletes subjected to acute physical stress. Preliminary results have shown that in the face of a slightly greater weight loss (which could hypothetically be due to a more efficient effect in thermoregulation secondary to the hemodynamic effect) but which in practice is considerably comparable (considering the relative p-values obtained by statistical analysis), the use of FIR fabric is related to a statistically significant reduction in body resistance (Rz) compared to the control fabric. In general, this effect correlates with a different distribution of fluids and ions, which allows the body to oppose a lower resistance to the passage of the microcurrent used in the bioimpedance measurement. This outlines a picture that is the opposite to what one would expect to observe following acute physical activity. This effect could be explained on the basis of the most recent interpretation of these phenomena in literature, i.e. by the ability to intervene on blood circulation (hemodynamic effect) in the areas included within the penetration capacity of the FIR frequencies. The haemodynamic effect is potentially correlated to positive metabolic and thermoregulatory effects, favourable elements in sports practice. Further future studies on larger samples and with a further level of detail are necessary to clarify all the potential associated with the use of FIR garments.