Have you spotted those intriguing red circles on Olympic athletes? They're from cupping therapy, a popular recovery method among elite competitors.
These red or purple marks appear after cupping sessions, where suction cups are applied to sore muscles. The vacuum effect lifts the skin and underlying tissue, believed to boost blood flow, reduce inflammation, and speed recovery. Stars like Michael Phelps have famously used it during the Games.
While athletes and trainers swear by its benefits for performance and pain relief, rigorous scientific studies have yet to confirm its effectiveness beyond placebo effects. As sports medicine experts note, it's a traditional practice with anecdotal support but limited empirical evidence.
