Weightlifting is an excellent pastime for those wanting to get stronger, add muscle mass and increase fitness. Though weightlifting has been shown to increase bone and joint health, heavy training can place excess stress on joints, particularly the knee joint. Wearing knee braces when weightlifting under certain circumstances may aid in the prevention of injuries and improve performance.
Knee Braces
Knee braces are usually made from neoprene -- or other soft, expandable fabrics -- and come in varying degrees of support. Hinged braces offer a high level of support and can be set up to stop movement of the knee past a certain point if required. However, they can be quite big and bulky. Stabilized braces offer a lower level of support, yet they fit more easily under training pants or shorts and are lighter.
Benefits
Knee braces can help reduce strain on the knees by protecting ligaments from enduring excess stress. Weightlifting encompasses two lifts - the snatch and the clean and jerk. Both place great strain on the knee joints. Braces can reduce this strain and keep the muscles around the knee warmer and more flexible, so they're less likely to get injured.
Use
Braces can come in different sizes, so it's a good idea to try before you buy. If buying from an online store, take measurements above and below your knee in order to find the right fit. When putting the brace on, ensure it's fitted properly so that your patella or knee bone is aligned with the center hole. Keep the brace clean and wash it regularly. If you've been advised to wear a brace by a physiotherapist or doctor, check with her regarding which type you should buy.
Considerations
Although it's believed that braces may remove excess strains and stresses from the knee joint when weightlifting, this may only be a placebo effect. It may also be that the pain reduction you may experience could be due to the knee and muscles surrounding it being warm. If you decide to wear knee braces when training, you should still focus on exercises that help strengthen the knee joint and not allow the brace to give you a false sense of security when lifting.
