The Benefits Of Knee Sleeves In Weightlifting

The Benefits Of Knee Sleeves In Weightlifting

If you are a weightlifter, powerlifter, CrossFitter, or general gym enthusiast, you must have heard about or seen people wearing knee sleeves. They have become increasingly popular amongst athletes, and for all good reasons. Knee sleeves have many benefits, including providing knee support, warmth, and compression, which help you improve your performance and optimise your fitness goals. 

Whether you are looking for the best knee sleeves for weightlifting or the best knee sleeves for the gym, let’s dive deep into why investing in a quality pair of knee sleeves is a wise choice that can help you improve your performance.

What are knee sleeves?

knee sleeves

Knee sleeves are athletic gear designed to provide compression to the knee joint, which can help improve blood flow, provide additional support, and help reduce swelling and pain. They are generally made with neoprene material and come in different thickness and sizes. Knee sleeves are most commonly used in weightlifting, powerlifting, CrossFit, and other physical activities that involve knee movement.

What are the benefits of wearing knee sleeves for weightlifting?

  • Provide Knee Support

When lifting heavy weights, knee joints are exposed to a lot of stress and pressure. With weightlifting being a squat-dominant sport, knee sleeves can provide stability through mechanical support to knee joints, whether you are squatting, snatching or cleaning!

Provide knee support

  • Offer Compression and Increased Blood Flow

Knee sleeves provide compression and an increase in blood flow to the knee joint, keeping them “warm” during a workout. This subsequently lubricates your knees, allowing you to train harder without experiencing discomfort or pain, especially in the bottom position of a squat / the receiving position of the lifts. The compression provided by the knee sleeves also reduces inflammation, stiffness, and potential swelling in the knee joint, supporting overall performance.

benefits of knee sleeves

  • Reduces Risk to Injury and Improves Performance

When lifting heavier weights, your knees are naturally more vulnerable to injuries. The aforementioned support and compression provided by knee sleeves however reduce the risk of injury, allowing you to optimise your performance.

How to Choose the Right Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting?

Choose the right knee sleeves for weightlifting

  • Size

Proper size and fit are essential to get the maximum benefit of support and compression from the knee sleeve. To find the right knee sleeve size, all you need is a measuring tape. Keep the knee slightly bent, and measure the calf's circumference approx 10cm under the patella's midpoint (knee cap). Use this measurement to select the appropriate size of knee sleeve. 

You can refer to our knee sleeve size guide chart to help you choose the right size.

  • Material 

The material of the knee sleeve is another crucial factor to consider when choosing the knee sleeve. Most of the knee sleeves are made from neoprene.  Our knee sleeves are made from non-restrictive, flexible neoprene material that provides compressive support without limiting the range of motion. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber material that provides excellent compression, support, and stability during all lifts allowing you to push your limits and lift heavy with confidence. Moreover, neoprene is waterproof, durable, and resistant to wear and tear.

  • Thickness

Knee sizes come in different thicknesses, ranging from 3 mm to 7 mm. The thickness of the sleeve affects the level of support and compression it provides. 

The thicker the sleeves, the more support and compression they will provide. Our knee sleeves are made with 7mm neoprene material, making them suitable for weightlifting.

Conclusion

Knee sleeves can support various gym activities and a wide range of sports, including weightlifting, CrossFit, powerlifting, and more. If you are serious about your weightlifting goals and want to perform at your best, you should consider investing in a pair of knee sleeves. 

For more products, such as weightlifting tape, liquid chalk, or hand grips, check out our weightlifting and fitness gear. At Black Cat Barbell, we aim to bring high-quality products at lower prices, making them affordable to all.

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