Wrap knees for squats?

You guys wrap knees when working legs. I Had a injury and couldnt do heavy legs for about 2 years. When I started back on legs I didn't bother
wraping. Getting older and trying to keep the main joints in good working
order, I was thinking about it. What is everyones thought on this??

mcgaret said:

You guys wrap knees when working legs. I Had a injury and couldnt do heavy legs for about 2 years. When I started back on legs I didn't bother
wraping. Getting older and trying to keep the main joints in good working
order, I was thinking about it. What is everyones thought on this??

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I have been powerlifting (and training powerlifters) for many years and have a few opinions on wrapping knees. First, I do not believe that wraps should be worn all the time. When you are going heavy, they are fine, but constant use can lead to strength imbalances around the joint, IMO. In addition, tight wrap jobs have been known to cause patellar tracking problems. So... the key is to use only as necessary.

I have found that a better solution (when not going heavy) is to incorporate the use of knee sleeves. They can (and should) be used at all times and do a very good job keeping the joint warm and flexible. They also offer a little support to the area for added confidence. I would recommend Rehband sleeves; they can be purchased online at Jackal's Gym and a couple of other stores on the net.

Aside from that, be sure to stretch thoroughly PWO (if not already doing so). Warming up on a treadmill is also something I do prior to every leg workout. The only other thing that may help preserve the health of your knees would be an adjustment to form. Widening your stance slightly and carrying the bar lower on your back can greatly reduce the sheer force on your knees. Narrow stance, knees over toes, ballistic style squats are a first class ticket to knee replacement. Toes should be pointed slightly out, and shins kept perpendicular to the floor as you descend by pushing your rear end back (not straight down) while keeping the knees pushed out. Good form is key to preventing injuries.

I realize that you are probably familiar with at least some of what I wrote, so please don't be offended. Just trying to give helpful advice to those who may not be as advanced. I have had my share of knee problems, but I am now nearly symptom free as a result of the practices decribed above.

i hurt my left knee. so im wrapping it right now. normally no.

i always wrap
i went through a tendonitus nightmare

I think if i wrapped in the first place id be ok today. I remember having sharp pain in the knee while squating about a year ago. Its still messed up.

I've never wrapped, but I'm starting to get up there on poundage so I may need to start. I do sometimes get sore knees.

I have some knee sleeves, but only use them when I'm doing certain heavy ass exercises. I love the way they feel. The whole rep feels much more fluid.

I agree that they shouldn't be used all the time, the supportive ligs, tends and muscles around your knee need to get stronger on their own and support the weight that you're lifting as well. I rarely wrap anymore but if I'm going for a heavy set or low rep set and the weight is heavy enough I will.

teedubgee said:

I have some knee sleeves, but only use them when I'm doing certain heavy ass exercises. I love the way they feel. The whole rep feels much more fluid.

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Yeah, it's amazing how something so unsupportive can make the movement feel that much better. Just don't be afraid to wear them more often. Especially any type of squat movement. You'll be very glad you did 10 years from now.