At Recovery Base Shellharbour, we believe recovery should be as intentional as training. It’s not just about resting, it’s about using the right tools to help your body perform, repair, and move well every day.

One of those tools is compression therapy. Used by professional athletes and everyday movers alike, it’s a simple yet powerful way to reduce soreness, boost circulation, and support your body’s natural recovery process.

Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, what to expect, and why it’s become one of the most popular recovery methods at Recovery Base.

What is compression therapy?

Compression therapy uses air-filled boots or sleeves to apply controlled pressure to the legs (and sometimes arms), helping to stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

In our compression lounge, we use professional-grade compression boots designed to gently squeeze and release the muscles in rhythmic waves, similar to a deep massage, but with consistent, measurable pressure.

This helps your body:

Increase circulation
Flush out lactic acid and waste
Reduce muscle fatigue and swelling
Promote faster recovery after training

How compression therapy supports recovery

When you train, tiny microtears form in your muscles. This is a normal part of building strength, but it can cause soreness and stiffness. Compression therapy helps speed up the recovery process by improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to those damaged tissues.

It also supports the removal of metabolic waste, which means less inflammation and a faster return to movement.

For anyone who’s on their feet all day, not just athletes, this increased circulation can make a noticeable difference in how your body feels by the end of the day.

Benefits of compression therapy

Reduced soreness: Accelerates recovery after workouts or long hours on your feet.
Improved circulation: Promotes oxygen-rich blood flow throughout the body.
Decreased swelling: Supports lymphatic drainage and fluid movement.
Increased mobility: Eases muscle tightness and joint stiffness.
Relaxation: Provides a calming, massage-like experience that helps the body unwind.

Whether you’ve completed a marathon or just need a break from sitting at a desk, compression therapy offers a practical, restorative reset.

How compression therapy works

The technology behind compression boots is based on sequential air pressure, chambers within the sleeves inflate and deflate in a set rhythm, creating a wave-like motion up the limbs.

This movement mimics your body’s natural circulation process, helping push deoxygenated blood and fluid back toward the heart. Once released, fresh, oxygenated blood flows in to aid repair and recovery.

It’s a simple but highly effective process that promotes better performance, comfort, and wellbeing.

Compression therapy for athletes

Athletes use compression boots to reduce fatigue between sessions and recover faster after events. Studies show that regular compression can help decrease muscle soreness and improve perceived recovery, helping athletes maintain consistent training intensity.

At Recovery Base Illawarra, our compression zone offers a quiet upstairs space designed for comfort, relaxation, and results. Whether you’re recovering from training, work, or life, you can unwind while giving your body what it needs.

Compression therapy for everyday recovery

Compression therapy isn’t just for elite performers. It’s an excellent option for anyone who experiences:

Tired, heavy legs
Swelling or fluid retention
Long periods of sitting or standing
Poor circulation

Even short sessions can help improve energy levels and mobility, supporting your body’s natural rhythm of movement and rest.

How often should you use compression therapy?

For active recovery, 3–5 sessions per week is ideal.
For general wellbeing, even one or two sessions can make a difference, particularly if you spend long hours on your feet or behind a desk.

Each session lasts around 20–40 minutes, making it an easy addition to your routine.

Combining compression therapy with other modalities

At Recovery Base, compression therapy pairs perfectly with other recovery methods like ice baths, saunas, or float therapy.

Compression supports circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping your body respond and adapt more efficiently after other treatments. It’s a key part of our holistic approach, using different tools to meet your body where it’s at.

What to expect at Recovery Base

When you visit our compression lounge, you’ll settle into a comfortable recliner, slip into your compression boots, and let the technology do the work.

You’ll feel a gentle squeeze that starts at your feet and gradually moves up your legs, cycling through various pressure zones. Most people describe it as deeply relaxing, many even drift off mid-session.

Our team will guide you through the settings, ensuring your experience is both comfortable and effective.

Compression therapy at Recovery Base

At Recovery Base Shellharbour, we’re building a space where recovery fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Our compression zone is designed for calm, connection, and consistency, helping you restore balance and energy.

Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or someone simply wanting to feel your best, compression therapy offers an easy, accessible way to support your recovery.

Ready to experience it for yourself?

Join us at Recovery Base for your first compression session and feel the difference.

Recovery for Every Body.

The complete guide to compression therapy