Knee pads aren't just for kids on inline skates, although that's one arena where they can help save the day -- or at least the kneecaps. If you engage in any type of exercise where your knees could take a hit, knee pads are advisable. Several types are available to suit your age, size and sport or exercise.
What They Are
Knee pads for exercise are protective coverings you wear over your knee cap. They generally consist of a foam-padded area that sits atop your knee and an elastic band or sleeve that wraps around the back of your knee. They come in specific types to suit the particular sport or exercise in which you are engaging.
What They Do
Knee pads can offer additional support to your knee area if your joint is weak or recovering from injury and they can protect knees from injury in the first place. Knee pads are key protective gear for sports such as wrestling, volleyball, inline skating, skateboarding, BMX biking, hockey and football. Knee pads can also be helpful during exercise that puts a lot of stress or pressure on your knees, such as upper body presses with an exercise wheel and deep lunges that leave your knees pressed against the floor.
What They Look Like
Knee pads designed for hard hits have an inflexible outer shell, usually made of plastic or thick leather, over the kneecap. These pads generally have a Velcro closure around the back and work well for sports like inline skating. Knee pads for sports like wrestling and volleyball have a thick yet softer pad that can absorb the shock from impact on the mat or floor. General purpose pads, for lunges and other exercises, can be as thin as 1/4 inch and usually fit around your knee like a sleeve.
Buying
Getting the right fit is the first step for buying knee pads. They should be snug but still let you move freely through your game or exercise routine. The sleeve-type knee pads can come in different sizes; the Velcro-strapped pads are usually one size. If pads come in specific sizes, measure your knee's circumference. Knee pads for exercise are available at fitness and sporting goods retailers. Prices in February 2011 started at $8 each. Knee pads for wrestling and general purpose use can be sold singly, but others come in pairs.
Member Comments