Recovery is the single most important part of any exercise or training program. Without proper recovery our body cannot rebuild to strengthen itself from the hard workouts we’ve completed. There are many recovery tools and processes that can be used but today I want to focus on one specific compression system, the Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System.
Don’t want to read the entire review? Jump to the Summary
OVERVIEW – Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
The Normatec leg compression boot system delivers a dynamic air compression massage to give you fresh legs faster. It uses dynamic air compression to create a restorative massage that is shown to increase circulation and increase recover time. This newer generation 2.0 system introduces improved portability and smartphone integration, with a 27% reduced console size and an updated, bluetooth enabled app.
There are five zones in each attachment that overlap to create a gapless massage for the foot, lower leg, knee, thigh, and upper thigh. This system contains high quality locking zippers that ensure the attachments stay secure.
Used by Professionals
Utilized by trainers across all major professional sports, the NormaTec Pulse 2.0 leg recovery system attachments offer a high-tech, low stress solution for quick, comprehensive leg recovery. Whether your focus is running, climbing, cross-training, or powerlifting, wearing NormaTec’s electronically stimulated leg compression boots before or after an intense workout can help warm up and rejuvenate the muscle tissue and dramatically reduce tightness and soreness—meaning less downtime and greater productivity.
Pros and Cons of the Normatec Compression System
Pros
- 27% smaller and lighter than competitors
- Bluetooth iOS/Android app control
- Connect to strava/training peaks for auto upload
- Touchscreen LCD screen
- Backward compatible with all hoses and attachments on the Pulse 1.0
- Great durability
- 2-year warranty, including zippers
Cons
- Battery life is less than 2 hours if using the highest pressure (level 5)
- Over time the LCD screen fades slightly
- Some minor zipper issues may cause zippers to stick
Fully connected mobile app
Allows you to integrate your recovery session seamlessly into your training plan and control it directly from your phone.
The Leg Recovery System’s new lightweight control unit allows you to custom adjust the zone settings and intensity levels and mirrors natural occurring waveform flows in the body, working painlessly while you rest.
Related Review: Compex Ayre Compression Boots Review
Patented Normatec technology massage pattern
Increases circulation, reduces pain and soreness, and gives you a competitive edge.
Zone Boost
Ensures targeted attention where you need it most.
Precise digital control
Features custom compression levels from 30 to 110 mmHg.
Integrated rechargeable battery
Use this device on-the-go, or anywhere you are comfortable.
Rugged construction
Overlapping zones are handsewn with triple reinforced stitching for extra durability.
Standard size design
Fits heights 5’3″ – 6’3″.
Low maintenance
Simply wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Design Features – Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
- TSA approved for carry-on
- Bluetooth® connected
- Color display panel
- 7 intensity levels
- Customizable time, pressure, and zone settings
- ZoneBoost™ technology
- Compact, lightweight control unit (3.4 lbs)
- 15 V power and rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Reinforced, durable construction
- Premium-grade locking zippers
- Overlapping zones for gapless compression
- Integrated internal hosing
BENEFITS
ZoneBoost™
Give yourself a little extra with ZoneBoost™ technology. If a certain part of your leg, hip, or arm needs a boost of attention, select its corresponding zone to add 10 mmHg more pressure for 60 seconds longer.
Custom Calibration
The Normatec patented Pulse massage pattern includes a unique digitally controlled calibration phase that molds the attachments to your body, guaranteeing a custom fit and perfectly precise pressure each session.
What I think of the Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
I personally love compression recovery. My normal recovery routine includes the use of compression socks and compression pants and I have used compression boots with great results. The Normantec system is well built, easy to use and provides many great features. I give it an 8.8 star rating, but mostly because it’s a bit pricy. Others have mentioned minor issues over time but the 2 year warranty provides a great length of protection against any possible malfunctions.
So, Do I recommend the Normatec system? Yes, I recommend this compression boot system.
What others are saying…
Amazon reviews show that the far majority of customer are satisfied.
The 1-5 star review breakdown shows a strong trend towards reliability and satisfaction.
Positive Comments for Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
As a Pro athlete and Ironman Champion I can say these compression boots are a MUST own tool.
Thomas Gerlach, Professional Trathlete
Completely worth it, using it for recovering from leg day and it definitely helps resolve the soreness quickly, great for swelling after travel and my grandfather has been using them to resolve edema in his legs. They are amazing and work really well.
Amazon Customer
I am a competitive runner and fitness enthusiast so I train a lot. I wear the boots for 1-2 hours and they help with recovery immensely.
L. Carlisle
Negative Comments for Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
These make my legs feel great after a massage and definitely help with recovery. The leg extensions are definitely heavy duty. I would have given five stars apart from the price and the fact the pumping unit is really bulky with a bit of a budget looking screen that I am sure won’t last as long as the rest of it
Dave Harrison
I bought this product and used it only twice, but the zipper gets stuck and it very frustrating. I am going to see for a couple of more days to see how it works, before considering returning it. For the price I paid, I did not expect this quality of product.
Amazon Customer
Summary
Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
The Normatec leg compression system uses air compression to increase circulation and accelerate recovery. This newer generation 2.0 is more portable, can be controlled with your smartphone and is smaller and lighter.
Pros
Size and Weight
Bluetooth Mobile App
Touchscreen LCD Display
Durability
Cons
Cost
Minor Zipper Issues
Screen fades over time
Price
Why is recovery so important?
Recovery allows for improved performance, permits time for our body to heal itself in preparation for the next training load, and decreases the risk of potential injury. All these benefits allow for the attainment of new goals and Personal Best’s (PBs). Factors influencing recovery include sleep, mental fatigue/stress levels, nutrition, hydration, frequency and type of training loads, alcohol intake and methods of warm up pre exercise and cool down post exercise. All of these can be manipulated, nurtured and controlled to have positive or negative effects on one’s recovery.
What happens during the recovery period?
The body is allowed to adapt to the stress associated with exercise, replenishes muscle glycogen (energy stores) and provides time for the body tissue to repair. Without giving the body the time and opportunity necessary to heal and rebuild itself it will break down and over time injuries will begin to manifest.
There are two different categories of recovery:
- Immediate or short-term recovery – This is the most common form of recovery and occurs within hours after an exercise session or event. Short-term recovery includes low intensity exercise after working out and during the cool down phase. Nutrition, light stretching and other strategies, such as the use of compression gear (like the Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System) are incredibly important during this phase.
- Long-term recovery – This refers to recovery periods that are built into a seasonal training schedule and may include days or weeks incorporated into an annual athletic program.
Benefits of Recovery
If used properly, recovery provides many benefits. A few of those benefits are listed below.
Allows time for your body to rebuild
Contrary to popular belief, recovery isn’t about being lazy on the couch. It’s during this recovery period that the beneficial effects of exercise take place. Without proper recovery muscle growth and adaptation cannot take place. Exercise creates microscopic tears in your muscle tissue but during rest, cells called fibroblasts repair it. This helps the tissue heal and grow, resulting in stronger muscles. Also, during exercise, your body breaks down glycogen, which is use to fuel your muscles during your workout. Recovery gives your body time to replenish these energy stores before your next workout.
Reduces risk of injury
Regular rest is essential for staying safe during exercise. When your body is overworked, you’ll be more likely to fall out of form or take a wrong step. Overtraining increases the risk of overuse injuries, forcing you to take more rest days than planned.
Prevents muscle fatigue
Rest is necessary for avoiding exercise-induced fatigue. If your muscles are depleted of glycogen and not given proper opportunity to rebuild those glycogen stores and repair micro-tears, you’ll experience muscle fatigue and soreness.
Supports healthy sleep
Regular exercise can improve your sleep. Physical activity increases energy-boosting hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Excessive exercise without proper recovery, however, overproduces these hormones. You’ll have a hard time getting quality sleep, which only worsens fatigue and exhaustion.
Improves performance
When you don’t get enough rest, your following workout will feel “laggy” and it becomes hard to do your normal routine. As a result, you’ll likely find less motivation to do an extra rep or run another mile. Even if you find the motivation to push yourself, overtraining decreases your performance and you may experience reduced endurance, slow reaction times, and poor agility.
View other training related topics in the AtoD Running Training Journal