Knee pads are an essential accessory for regular cross-trainers, weightlifters and powerlifters. Over time, as you progress in your discipline, you need extra support for your knees. But when should you wear them? Why are they useful? And above all, how can you use them to optimize your performance while protecting your knees? It’s important to use knee pads intelligently, so as not to weaken your muscle mass in the joint. Here’s an article on everything you need to know about Wodandgo knee pads.
Why use knee pads?
Knee pads are obviously not just a fashion accessory. They offer several advantages:
- Support and compression: They provide good support for the joint, and the neoprene material retains heat in the joint, reducing the risk of injury.
- Impact protection: Ideal for movements where the knees touch the ground, such as lunges or burpees. An airbag effect is guaranteed for these movements.
- Improved blood circulation: Compression helps reduce muscle fatigue and promotes recovery.
- Stability and performance: for weightlifting or heavy squats, they improve proprioception and provide extra support. They are useful on long repetitions, offering a rebound on each squat.
When should knee pads be worn?
- During intense cross-training WODs or functional training with lots of knee bends (thrusters, squats, box jumps, etc.). For this type of effort, you should opt for 5 mm and/or and/or 7 mm. Would you like to use multi-purpose knee pads? Kneepads for lifting heavy loads and keeping them on during WODs? Choose short 7mm knee pads which are more versatile, providing good support and freedom of movement.
- On heavy loads in weightlifting or powerlifting (back squat, clean & jerk, snatch). Are you an athlete who performs weightlifting or powerlifting with extreme loads? We recommend knee pads adapted to your needs, such as : The strength knee pads – GLADIATOR. These knee pads are not suitable for WOD use because of their high compression.
- If you feel discomfort in your knees, to avoid aggravation. If knee discomfort persists, it’s obviously unavoidable to seek medical advice! Knee braces are not a long-term solution.
- As prevention if you want to protect your joints in the long term. We still advise you not to use them on WODs where there are no long sets, so as not to weaken your muscles.
💡 Warning: Knee pads are not a substitute for a good warm-up or proper muscle strengthening!
How do I use them properly?
- Choosing the right size: Too tight and they cut off circulation. Too wide and they’re useless (Consult the size guides Wodandgo on the pages of each kneepad)
- Correct positioning: Just above and below the kneecap, without folds.
- Don’t wear them all the time: They should be used for intense effort, not as a permanent crutch.
Wodandgo knee pads combine comfort, support and performance. Whether you’re in the middle of a WOD or under a loaded bar, they’ll be your best ally in protecting your knees and pushing your limits.