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If you have ever been to a chiropractor to treat back pain, you might be familiar with Kinesio taping. It is a rehabilitative technique designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints — all while stimulating your body’s built-in support system. IntelliSkin takes the idea of Kinesio taping a step further, using highly-engineered posture apparel to stimulate the body’s natural healing process by aligning and compressing soft tissue injuries in the direction of relief.
From a technical standpoint, the Foundation LS (Long Sleeve) that I own is a marvel of garment construction. There are multiple panels of varying "stretchiness" sewn together in a pattern designed to "force" you to stand or sit straighter.
The hardest part for me was putting on the Foundation LS. No matter what technique I used, I ended up requiring assistance to pull the tight material down from the back. I also needed help getting the shirt off. I am sure there is a technique I have yet to learn. Part of the reason could be my "frozen shoulder" lack of mobility was getting in the way. But, this gear is tight! Once the shirt was on, it felt good, albeit a little like being packed like a sausage. My first test was to see how Intelliskin affected my working at a computer, which I tend to do 8 to 10 hours a day. The garment definitely aids in good posture. You quickly adapt because it becomes uncomfortable to "slump", so the natural reaction is to sit up straight.
My only "complaint" was that the Foundation LS began to chafe me under my arms. I had the same problem with the LDComfort top. I guess I am too fat under my arms! The Intelliskin website is filled with photos and testimonials from professional athletes from virtually every sport, and the gear definitely looks better on them than it did on me. My biggest concern was that all of the stitching would be uncomfortable, but it wasn't. The fabric also has anti-microbial and wicking properties to help shed perspiration and keep you dry.
Riding with Intelliskin delivered the same "sit up straight" effect, which no doubt would reduce fatigue on a long ride. My next test will be wearing Intelliskin on a 10-hour flight to Europe and a 7-hour ride to Amarillo. Watch this article for updates!
For more information on Intelliskin, go to http://www.intelliskin.net
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