The knees are the first to go in any sporting activity and whenever the body gets tired. It is the most sensitive body part. You work out, and it gets injured. You don't work out, and it becomes a bad knee. It almost seems like there is no winning with this body part. And you can't replace it easily once it's injured and dysfunctional. Our best bet is to go for knee sleeves to keep it from injury or further injury if it had already been damaged before.
Knee sleeves offer the best knee support when lifting, running, walking, or doing any sporting activity. If you have problematic knees or are fed up with the constant pain after a workout, look up some of the best knee sleeves available.
You can check this article on the best running knee sleeves while this blog helps you choose what best fits your kind of sporting activity.
Does an athlete need knee sleeves?
The answer is yes, and no.
Yes, athletes who have identified their specific goals in training and have identified their knee weaknesses may need knee sleeves. Athletes who have had a prior injury and who wouldn't want to put unnecessary pressure on their knees may need these sleeves. As an athlete, you may also go for knee sleeves for mental assurance, as well as the warmth these materials provide.
But if you are new to sporting activities, you are required to take some time and study your workout routine before investing in a knee sleeve. However, your instructor or coach may help you identify the best fit sleeve for your kind of workout if you must have a knee sleeve.
What does a quality sleeve consist of?
A quality sleeve is one that performs its functions in knee joint support efficiently. A joint-sleeve that is well designed and constructed forms a quality knee sleeve.
A knee sleeve made of neoprene does not stretch excessively even under the strain of vigorous exercise. Reinforced stitching in the sleeves enhances durability while warranty provides proof that the sleeve company has confidence in its product.
So why use knee sleeves?
Knee sleeves provide support around the knee joint. In a way, mainly the thicker sleeves help keep the knee from injury or further injury because they restrict motion. They keep the knee warm, especially in cold weather, and where an athlete needs help to warm up for an event. They are also a tool that helps provide mental reassurance to athletes who have to endure heavy loads above them.
Below are a few pointers to help you choose a knee sleeve based on the type of sporting event you perform.
#1. Knee Sleeves for PowerLifters
Powerlifters use knee sleeves for support and stability of the knee joint during training. But they will not go for any type of knee support. They usually go for a more rigid and stiff knee sleeve because they use heavier loads frequently during training.
The sleeves provide a powerlifter with added compression as well as build's his confidence during the substantial movement of objects. Approved sleeves for the competition will give the athlete warmth during long breaks as well as mental reassurance. Powerlifters require reassurance that they can manage the weight without injury.
#2. Knee Sleeves for Weight lifters
Weight lifters also need joint support and warmth. As a weight lifter, you will require very flexible sleeves that do not hinder the joint from moving. You don't need stiff and rigid envelopes because you catch the weight when squatting. You, therefore, don't need a sleeve that will limit you from achieving squatting depth. You will also require warmth in the knee joints during the rest periods as well as comfort. A thicker, stiffer sleeve will not guarantee you the support desired.
#3. Knee Sleeves for Crossfit, Functional and Recreational Athletes
If you are this type of athlete, you will need a versatile sleeve. You will look for a jacket designed in a way that will support your knee joint and allow natural movement. For example, someone doing aerobics will require a thinner sleeve that's flexible to his/her actions other than a thicker jacket that will confine movements.
Conclusion
Every active individual needs knee support at some point. Whether your exercise is the light type or is denser and more vigorous, you will need protection for your knee. The knee support comes in the name of knee sleeves.
There are no readily available knee replacements in the world to go around for everyone whose knee gets damaged. Finances will also not favor the few that are available. However, knee sleeves come at relatively affordable prices and are readily available to those in need. You thus don't have an excuse for not protecting your knee against harm and cold.
