Tag: powerlifting
Nadia Stowers Sets World Record In Log Press And Axle Deadlift
Strongwoman Nadia Stowers recently set two world records.
It was a day to remember on Saturday for Nadia Stowers. The strongwoman set two world records during the 2021 Static Monsters Worldwide Competition. The BIG Speed and Strength gym in Fontana, CA was the site to see an incredible feat of strength from Stowers in the 82-kg weight class.
Stowers set a new mark in both the axle deadlift and log press. First, the axle deadlift was a whopping 299.4kg (660lb) followed by a log press of 130.6kg (288lb). Stowers took to Instagram to share the lifts and provide some thanks for her world-record performance.
“They say shoot for the moon and if you miss, you’ll land amongst the stars. I didn’t get my moon today but man these stars are pretty!! Think these are both the highest recorded log press and axle deadlift in a competition so far!-correct me if I’m wrong- now THAT’S exciting!
288 log-24lbs up from last year660 axle-10lbs up from last year303 log attempt!! – I’ll GET my moon!
Coached by @jacobfinertyB.I.G Online coaching available”
The log press record was previously held by Stowers but she exceeded it by 13kg. In 2019, Rebecca Cumpsty logged the world record of 115kg (253.5lb) before Stowers was able to break it at the 2021 Clash on the Coast. This is where she lifted 117.9kg (260lb). She made the lift look easy on Saturday where she was able to demolish her previous record.
Coming into the weekend, Stowers already matched the previous world record in axle deadlift but did not pass it. This was held by Kim Derks at 295kg (650.4lb). This was achieved at the 2019 SMWW competition. Now, Stowers can have the record all to herself. She previously matched the record during the 2020 SMWW competition.
Nadia Stowers recently finished eighth in the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongwoman competition. She won the 2020 SMWW competition with a total of 408.5kg (900.6lb). That same year, Stowers became the winner at the 2020 Strongman Corporation National Championship. This is now Stowers’ third world record. The first came during the 2021 Clash on the Coast where she achieved a 97.5 (215lb) block press.
Nadia Stowers certainly put on a show over the weekend and it will be interesting to see if she can build on this performance moving forward.
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Gabriel Peña Becomes First Strongman To Achieve 500kg Axle Deadlift
Gabriel Peña set a new world record in the Axle deadlift at 500kg.
It is always incredible to see a powerlifter reach new heights and Gabriel Pena did that over the weekend. The strongman recently competed in the 2021 Static Monsters Worldwide competition. This took place on Oct. 23 and Pena put on a show that we have never seen before.
Pena stepped up to the 16.75-inch axle wearing wrist straps, a lifting belt, and knee wraps. He completed a 500kg deadlift, which is a new world record. Pena became the first strongman ever to reach this number and he took to Instagram to celebrate his achievement.
“?WORLD RECORD?
I FINALLY HAVE MY OWN WORLD RECORD!!!
1,100 lbs / 500 kg at Static Monsters Worldwide in Harker Heights, Texas ?(16.75” Axle)
This Deadlift was for you Ricky @rd_strongman_36 . It was a pleasure lifting along with your boy today, and all the other athletes who came out in your honor.You’d be damn proud.Rest in power brother.”
The video shows how much effort this incredible lift actually took. Pena displayed strong technique and shaky legs until locked out and qualified the lift.
Gabriel Pena became the first strongman to accomplish this lift. The axle bar requires a higher grip because of the way the bar is shaped. This makes it a more difficult lift than that with a standard barbell.
This is not the first time that Pena has completed an enormous lift. This was his first record-breaking lift in competition but Pena has showed some impressive lifts in the gym. In June, Pena displayed a deadlift of 408.2kg (900lb) for a triple. He has completed a partial deadlift of 481kg (1,005lb) using an axle bar back in January.
This is not territory where many strongmen has gone. Anthony Pernice currently holds the world record for partial deadlift at 550kg (1,212.5lb). Eddie Hall and Mark Felix are other names that have made a living completing huge deadlifts. Pena has to be in the conversation now that he has completed a world record of his own.
Gabriel Pena was an alternate for the 2021 World’s Strongest Man competition. This year, he looks like he has a chance to compete with some of the other top competitors in the world. Confidence should be sky-high after a lift of this caliber and Pena will only continue to improve.
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Joseph Whittaker Avoids Injury In Gym During 400kg Squat
Powerlifter Joseph Whittaker was able to unload massive weight to avoid injury.
There is a reason that weightlifters have multiple spot when attempting an enormous lift. Even for the average lifter, it is important to have spotters present when venturing into new dynamics or weights. This is something powerlifter Joseph Whittaker knows and can back up — especially after avoiding injury during an accident.
On Tuesday, Whittaker had a close call while attempting a 400kg squat. After getting the bar on his back, Whittaker’s knee buckled and this caused him to begin to fall backward. He was able to unload the weight over his head and avoid a potential injury that could have been very serious.
Whittaker had a spotter behind him during the lift. He was able to drop the weight onto straps that were attached to the machine. The full video can be seen in Whittaker’s Instagram post below.
“Alright team,SOUND ON, the share violence of this is mind baffling and the monolift is the safest thing I’ve squatted in, after unracking 400 my knee snapped back batter in the wrap which made me loose balance and well I done my best to scrap it the end result and safest option was to dump over my head unfortunately fucked a squat bar ??..“I WONT STOP BECAUSE IM SORE/TIRED I WILL STOP WHEN THE WORK IS DONE””
This is not the first time that Joseph Whittaker has attempted a 400kg lift. In September during the 2021 NZ-UA Wolfpack Invitational, Whittaker completed a 380kg lift. After his first squat, Whittaker attempted a 402.5kg squat on his second and third try but failed both.
This is not surprising given the fact that the New Zealand native is one of the top powerlifters in the +120kg weight class. He has been competing for nearly a decade and has gotten comfortable in the top two at events.
This mishap did not turn Joseph Whittaker away from attempting heavy lifts. On Thursday, the powerlifter took another shot at a 402kg squat. This time, he was successful. Whittaker posted three videos. The first was a 375kg which Whittaker described as a warmup. The final two were 402kg.
Joseph Whittaker has had a clear plan for his next squat goal. In training, he has been able to reach it and it will being interesting to see if he can complete the lift next time on stage. No matter how strong a competitor is, there is always a chance to mistakes to happen. This move by Whittaker proves it and shows how instinctive he is when unloading the weight over his head. It was great to see that he was not hurt and will have many chances to put up even bigger squat numbers.
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2021 Rogue Invitational Preview & Athletes To Watch
Here are some of the top competitors to watch at the 2021 Rogue Invitational.
The 2021 Rogue Invitational is the next strongman competition that will feature some of the top names in the sport. Elite competitors will gather in Dell Diamond Stadium in Round Rock, TX from Oct. 29-31 to see who will take home the gold in this event.
This competition will be a chance for some of the top athletes to get back into the swing of things. Martins Licis, who won the 2019 World’s Strongest Man competition, will return to action along with Rob Kearney. Mateusz Kieliskowski will be back on stage for the second time since returning from an injury.
There will be $130,000 given out to the winner of the 2021 Rogue Invitational. There will be four World’s Strongest Man champions competing along with plenty of world-record holders. Here are some of the top competitors that are expected to make an appearance at the event.
List of Competitors
Brian Shaw
Tom Stoltman
Luke Stoltman
Martins Licis
Mateusz Kieliszkowski
Robert Kearney
JF Caron
Mikhail Shivlyakov
Jerry Pritchett
Oleksii Novikov
Brian Shaw
Shaw will enter the competition as the oldest competitor at 39 years old. This does not mean that he is out of the running for a podium finish — quite the opposite actually. Shaw was the runner-up at both the 2021 World’s Strongest Man and 2021 Shaw Classic. There is plenty that should motivate Shaw heading into this competition. That includes the prize money and the fact that he is going up against all younger competitors. Shaw has made 13 straight appearances in the WSM competition.
Tom Stoltman
Stoltman is the reigning World’s Strongest Man champion and is looking to make an impact at the Rogue Invitational. He received a positive COVID test that kept him out of the 2021 Europe’s Strongest Man competition but this did not slow him down. Stoltman finished second at the 2021 Giants Live World Tour Final. Stoltman is one of the top competitors in the Atlas Stone event. He will be difficult to defeat if he comes in at his peak and performs the way he is expected.
Martins Licis
Licis has not competed in two years because of different injuries. This is a chance for the former champion to get back in the field of competition and prove that he is still one of the best. Licis is the perfect combination of elite strength and technique when performing in different events. Licis has shared many training videos recently which shows his work getting back to competition. Licis is always a contender to finish on the podium. It will be interesting to see how he competes in his first competition back.
Mateusz Kieliszkowski
Kieliszkowski is another strongman coming off an injury. This is his second competition back since suffering a triceps injury that forced him to miss some time. He is another podium contender if he enters in tp shape. There are five events in this competition and Kieliszkowski will have to finish near the top of the final three or four. In his first competition back from injury, he finished second to Novikov at the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman contest. He is still one of the competitors to beat. The fact that he has one competition under his belt since returning from his injury is a huge factor.
Oleksii Novikov
Novikov might be viewed as the competitor to beat in this competition. The 2020 World’s Strongest Man did not qualify for the 2021 finals but has been on a roll since then. Novikov took home the prize during the 2021 Strongman Classic, 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman contest, and the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman Strength Island competition. This is not included a runner-up finish at the 2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK. Novikov is not the biggest competitor but he has become one of the best competitors. He recently posted a video training with a heavy dumbbell and referenced the Rogue Invitational. He will look to keep his streak going next weekend.
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Oleksii Novikov Completes 140-kg Dumbbell Lift In Training Session
Oleksii Novikov could have his eye on the heavy dumbbell world record.
Oleksii Novikov has done plenty to cement himself as one of the best strongmen in the world. He is only continuing to improve and he shows it during training sessions. Most recently, Novikov tackled an impressive lift with a dumbbell.
The heavy dumbbell has been dominated by two athletes. Novikov and Mateusz Kieliszkowski have been at the top of the game over the years. Both competitors have their own records when it comes to heavy dumbbell. Novikov currently holds the world record with 11 reps of a 100kg (220.5lb) weight in 75 seconds. Kieliszkowski holds the world record in Cyr Dumbbell with a 145.2kg (320lb) lift. This was completed at the 2020 Arnold Strongman Classic.
In a recent training session, Novikov completed a lift that was close to that of Kieliszkowski’s record. The 2020 World’s Strongest Man winner took to Instagram to show off a 140kg (308.6lb) lift.
Oleksii Novikov referenced the 2021 Rogue Invitational in his caption. This event will take place from Oct. 29-31 in Austin, TX. This will be the first time a strongman competition will be featured at this event and it will be headlined by two of the best. Kieliszkowski is a two-time runner-up in the World’s Strongest Man competition.
There will be plenty of talent present at the event along with Novikov and Kieliszkowski. Tom Stoltman, along with his brother Luke Stoltman, are scheduled to compete. Brian Shaw will also be present at the competition looking to take home the inaugural championship.
This is the second time that these two athletes will be competing against each other since Kieliszkowski returned from a triceps injury. The first time was during the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman competition, where Novikov won the prize and Kieliszkowski came in second place.
The 2021 Rogue Invitational will feature five events — rogue elephant bar max deadlift, cyr dumbbell ladder, the wheel of pain, yoke carry & overhead log lift medley, and stone over hitching post. The fact that there is just five events means that competitors will have to be their best right from the start. There is not much time to take an event off.
Novikov will not have a chance to break the world record here because of the event that is scheduled. It is a speed ladder and not an event where lifters will have a chance to max out. This has not stopped Novikov from training appropriately — and making it look easy. In the video, Novikov seems to pull off the lift and have plenty left in the tank.
Oleksii Novikov has put together a winning streak against in head-to-head battles and it will be interesting to see if he can put another win together. He will certainly be one of the favorites entering the weekend looking to make an impact.
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2021 Strongman Corporation Open Results
Here are the full results from the 2021 Strongman Corporation Open.
The 2021 Strongman Corporation Open took place this weekend with competitors vying for qualification to the 2022 Arnold Strongman World Championships. The event took place from Oct. 15-16 in Salem, VA at the Salem Civic Center.
There were a total of 13 divisions in the men’s and women’s lightweight, middleweight, and heavyweight sections. Competitors battled for qualification in six events — the rogue max log press, rogue bag toss, gorilla strength wheelbarrow deadlift, rogue axel clean & press, rogue yoke walk, and gorilla strength wheelbarrow race.
At the end of the event, there were 15 competitors who earned their proceeds. The full results have been announced and you can find the full breakdown below!
Lightweight Women
The top four competitors in the up to 120 pound division earned qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships while the top five in the up to 140 pound division earned theirs.
Up To 120 Pounds
Cynthia Martinez — 22 points
Kiara Medina — 14.5 points
Aimee Clickner — Eight points
Nicole Recchia — 5.5 points
Up To 140 Pounds
Kira Wrixon — 175.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Emma Pruitt — 163 points — Earned Pro Card
Jessica Helms — 161 points — Earned Pro Card
Jamie Navarro — 155 points
Nadia Morrison — 150.5 points
Middleweight Women
The top five competitors in both the up to 160 pound and 180 pound divisions earned qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships.
Up To 160 Pounds
Nancy Johnson — 64 points — Earned Pro Card
Mary Colasanto — 60 points — Earned Pro Card
Christy Senay — 46 points
Evelyn Valdez — 44 points
Jenny Draper — 37 points
Up To 180 Pounds
Jessica Mitchell — 88 points — Earned Pro Card
Cassandra Moore — 76.5 points
Katie Gutwald — 74 points
Kendra Danzer — 73 points (T-fourth)
Jamie Schamma — 73 points (T-fourth)
Heavyweight Women
The top two competitors in the up to 200 pound division earned qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships while the top five from the over 200 pound division earned the honor.
Up To 200 Pounds
Ashley Sorensen — Eight points
Katherine “Kitty” Cross — Seven points
Over 200 Pounds
Shaun Hairston — 109 points — Earned Pro Card
Pauline De Pinto — 98.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Colleen Meredith — 95.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Leilani Brown — 95 points
Jennifer Lyle — 94 points
Lightweight Men
The up to 150 pound division had just two competitors. The up to 175 pound division had 27 competitors vying for the top five spots.
Up To 150 Pounds
Peter Herguth — Eight points
Lauren Cohen — Three points
Up To 175 Pounds
Andrew Hanus — 158 points
William “Cody” Abell — 147 points
Quinn Romanasko — 128 points
Nicholas Boyce — 126 points
Sebastian Kluger — 125 points
Middleweight Men
The top five athletes in each of the next two divisions gained qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships.
Up To 200 Pounds
Charles Pierce — 92.5 points
Daniel Zimmer — 79 points
John Robinson — 69 points
Andrew Pepiot — 69 points
Marshall Buckler — 61 points
Up To 231 Pounds
Daniel Hughes — 274.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Tyler Young — 265.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Mark Jones — 264.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Matthew McQuiston — 256.5 points
Ryan Saxton — 256 points
Heavyweight Men
The top five athletes in each of the next two divisions gained qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships.
Up To 265 Pounds
James Ortmann — 56.5 points
Sean Deem — 54.5 points
David Elmore — 53 points
Garrett Payne — 50.5 points
Steven Spencer — 37 points
Up To 300 Pounds
Clayton Desilva — 107 points
David Tinsman — 94 points
Brian Kichton — 93.5 points
Thomas Sroka — 90 points
Alex Stults — 88 points
Over 300 Pounds
Jack Plankers — 278.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Thomas Evans — 269.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Nick Davis — 242.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Lucas Hatton — 237 points
Matthew Webb — 235 points
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Russell Orhii Crushes Own Squat World Record In Training Session
Russell Orhii is still the king of squats in the 83-kg division.
There are some powerlifters that are just on their game no matter where they are. Russell Orhii is an example of this and he made it known in a recent training session.
Orhii strolled into a commercial gym for a training session last week and was feeling pretty good. This was apparent because of the amount of weight that he loaded on the squat rack. Orhii is the current world-record holder in the 83-kg division at 320.5 kg (706.6lb). This is a lift that surpassed that record by nearly 19 pounds.
In the video, Orhii is seen with 725 pounds on his shoulders and completes one rep. This would have been good enough to shatter his own record if performed in a competition.
“I almost took an L squatting 725lbs/329kg in a commercial gym ??”
Russell Orhii made light of the lift in his caption but this was performed rather easily. There seemed to be some left in the tank and this could be building confidence for the next time that Orhii decides to step on stage. This lift was obviously not recognized as a world record because it was not done in competition and Orhii seems to be using uncalibrated plates.
Nonetheless, it is always impressive when a lifter can move a total of 14 45-pound weights. This is a record that was recently achieved by Orhii.
During the 2021 IPF World Classic Championships, Orhii put on a record-setting performance. He gave the crowd in Halstad, Sweden something to remember. During the show, Orhii set his world record squat while also totaling 841 kg (1,854.3lb), another record in the 83-kg division. It is clear that Orhii can perform on the biggest stages and that will continue to be the case moving forward.
Orhii took to Instagram after the World Classic Championships to celebrate his achievement. After watching the lift and seeing the emotion, it seems clear that there is no stopping Orhii moving forward.
This meet met so much more to me than just the lifting. It was by far my most difficult prep because there were SO many valid reasons to drop out. However, the the job got done in the face of adversity and NO ONE can take that from me.
“I’m going to take some time to get stronger and bring a MUCH better package to my next season of lifting.”
Russell Orhii is a name to watch moving forward in the powerlifting game. He has asserted himself as a force, especially in squat, and will continue to put up big-time numbers. The only questions remains is when he will decide to take on his own world record in competition.
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Best Knee Sleeves For Powerlifting & Compression (Updated 2021)
The best bodybuilding knee sleeves and best knee sleeves for lifting can greatly enhance compression and support for all those big lifts.
Our knees may be tough joints. They do support our large frames all day after all. But even the strongest things start to wear down and that loss of stamina could lead to imbalances and poor support ultimately leading to injury. Knee sleeves are incredibly useful tools when it comes to weightlifting, powerlifting, and Strongman, where so much load is compressed onto your poor knee joints.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Knee Sleeves for 2021 to help with your powerlifting, bodybuilding, and other lifting needs. The right knee sleeves can help you feel less vulnerable and stronger to tackle all of those big lifts.
Best Knee Sleeves For 2021
Best Overall Knee Sleeve
The best overall knee sleeve will work to offer great compression and support and allow for functional movements and more endurance based workouts, while still being useful for heavy lifts.
SBD 5mm Weightlifting Knee Sleeve
SBD brings this amazing weightlifting knee sleeve designed to minimize the risk of injury while working to maximize performance. Sold as a pair, this 5mm high grade neoprene and four-way stretch fabric has a reinforced seam constructed to last a long time with continuous use. An anti-microbial inner lining is matched by an abrasion resistant exterior lining for optimal protection against wear and tear. Registered and developed with help from elite athletes, coaches and other health professionals, this sleeve is approved for all competitive use including USPL, IPF, IWF, and was approved for the USPA in 2021.
SBD 5mm Weightlifting Knee Sleeve is made of 5mm high grade neoprene and four-way stretch fabric with reinforced seam construction for the best in injury prevention.
Pros
Top quality knee sleeve designed from elite athletes and other professionals
Very durable and built to last, the high-grade neoprene is reinforced to tackle wear and tear
Approved for all competition is a huge plus
Cons
It is on the expensive side for knee sleeves
You can only buy directly from their website
Price: $90.00
Check out our individual review for SBD Knee Sleeves here!
Best Bodybuilding Knee Sleeve
The best bodybuilding knee sleeves will work to provide support for those movements essential to sculpting and toning without the fear of injury or unwanted knee pain.
Mava Sports 7mm Knee Sleeve
This knee sleeve from Mava offers a 7mm compression sleeve to work on full support to ensure injury prevention, promote muscle and joint health, and offer optimal stability. Anatomically shaped for performance, they provide the right amount of support and compression to offer maximum comfort and relieve stiffness and soreness after any big lift. These strong neoprene knee sleeves will allow you to achieve more from all of your sessions. USPA approved, Mava also prides themselves on great customer service.
Mava Sports 7mm Knee Sleeve works to provide full support and injury prevention for the best comfort to relieve stiffness and soreness.
Pros
Offers great support and maximum comfort so your lifts are more mobile and aren’t stunted by a bulky sleeve
Being USPA approved is a bonus for competitors
Cons
The sizing tends to be slightly off
Being thick may provide comfort but it also doesn’t wick moisture away as well as it could
Price: $33.99
Best Knee Sleeve For Squats
Squatting can cause real discomfort at times, especially with your knees responsible for holding and moving so much weight. The best knee sleeves for squats will help with pain and swelling so you never have to halt those PRs.
Rehband Rx 5mm Knee Sleeve
Rehband Rx knee sleeve allows you to feel more confident and secure with any activity with this classic 5mm design to provide knee support, comfort, flexibility, and compression. The 3-D contoured design is based on the contour of the leg so it is an anatomical fit instead of an angled tube. Providing reinforcement all around the knee, it allows for optimal range of motion for whatever your sport. As a dependable creator of knee sleeves since 1955, Rehband always keeps the customer in mind and these are the best knee sleeves for squats.
Rehband Rx 5mm Knee Sleeve is a 3-D contoured design for the best reinforcement and optimal range of motion.
Pros
The 3-D design allows for a more comfortable fit
The range of motion is great for all lifts
Made from a trusted and reputable company
Cons
Sizing tends to be off which can cause discomfort
Tend to be a slightly thicker than others so circulation may become a problem
Price: $23.95-$51.83
Best Knee Sleeve For Powerlifting
Powerlifters are always putting their bodies under immense amount of stress with massive weight and the same movements. The best knee sleeves for powerlifting will provide comfort, support, and durability for all of those massive lifts.
SBD 7mm Knee Sleeve
SBD offers another great compression sleeve with their 7mm knee sleeve. Sold as a pair, these are the market leading knee joint support products for strength sports and strength training by top athletes in powerlifting and Strongman. Designed to minimize the risk of injury while also aiding in performance, this registered and patented design is developed by elite athletes and other health and fitness professionals. The 7mm high grade neoprene knee sleeve is approved by USAPL, IPF, and USPA, and is compliant with IWF.
SBD 7mm Knee Sleeve is great for joint support and reducing injury out of this high grade neoprene sleeve.
Pros
Top-tier product in terms of quality and longevity
Very effective design from elite athletes and other professionals
Fully approved for competitive use is a huge plus
Cons
This sleeve is on the expensive side
Only available through their website
Price: $82.50
Check out our individual review for SBD Knee Sleeves here!
Best Knee Sleeve For Warmth & Compression
The right knee sleeve for warmth and compression will be comfortable and make you feel as though you are getting everything you want and more out of a great knee sleeve to aid in all things exercise related for better support, blood flow, and protection.
Sling Shot 7mm Knee Sleeves By Mark Bell
Mark Bell brings Sling Shot 7mm knee sleeves to the table with years of experience as a professional powerlifter, coach, and fitness expert. This strong 7mm thick level 3 neoprene provides for compression with solid rebound to really maximize weightlifting loads. The patented design allows for comfort and convenience and is great for providing warmth to keep you lose and limber yet stable. The benefit of promoting body awareness is great as it works to assist neighboring parts of your body as well. Overall, the added stability will promote confidence with lifting more weight.
Sling Shot 7mm Knee Sleeves By Mark Bell is a strong and thick neoprene sleeve great for comfort and convenience.
Pros
They are lighter than others but offer the same support
Level 3 neoprene is high quality and ensures durability
They are top of the list for warmth
Cons
Expensive product and are of average quality overall when compared to others in the similar price range
Price: $83.00
Benefits Of Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves have the potential to greatly influence your lifts and give you confidence in knowing you are protecting those vulnerable joints. Benefits of knee sleeves include:
Add nice compression: By adding compression, you work to reduce pain and decrease swelling.
Increase blood flow: This will boost circulation for better movements and less pain in those vulnerable joints by preventing lactic acid build up (1).
Ensure efficient recovery: More healthy blood and oxygen flow, with less lactic acid build up, leads to better recovery for faster bounce back (2).
Support muscles: Knee sleeves support the muscles and decrease the number of muscular vibrations to assist in muscle fatigue and improve athletic performance (3).
Prevents future injury: By protecting those vulnerable spots, you preemptively work to prevent future injuries.
Choosing The Right Knee Sleeve
When looking at the right knee sleeve, you want to look at a number of factors including:
Your knee sleeve should fit just right and be snug. You don’t want it to be too tight so that it restricts movement and blood flow, but you also don’t want it to be too loose so it doesn’t give you the most in terms of intended use. The right fit will be snug and comfortable while also feeling supportive.
Looking for comfortable material is vital because you are moving and working out in this sleeve constantly. You don’t want to suffer through some uncomfortable and hard to use material. Finding the best option may require trial and error for comfort but the right one is out there.
Depending on the knee sleeve, the right amount of padding can ensure comfort and fit, and while some may be bulky, there are those more sleek looks that still provide great padding and support. This can affect your mobility and overall movement.
Knee sleeves typically come in 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm and knowing which one will work for you is important when looking to choose. A 3mm sleeve is great for those endurance athletes since it is lighter and helps with the necessary movements. For those all around fitness folks, a 5mm sleeve works great for it is thick but still allows for proper movements with physical activity. Finally, the 7mm sleeve offers additional support and is used by heavy lifters who rely on their knees to hold a lot of weight.
How We Choose
When looking at the best knee sleeves, we first made sure the overall quality of the sleeve was there. You deserve to have the best quality knee sleeve possible and the material and durability are what matter most, especially with the wear and tear brought on by exercise. We then look at the additional features like padding, overall fit and feel, and any other additional bonuses that come with the respective knee sleeve. We finally look at price. We know fitness equipment can get expensive but it is important to find the right knee sleeve at an affordable price.
FAQ Section
What is the best knee sleeve?
SBD 5mm Weightlifting Knee Sleeve. This amazing weightlifting knee sleeve is designed to minimize the risk of injury while working to maximize performance. Sold as a pair, this 5mm high grade neoprene and four-way stretch fabric has a reinforced seam constructed to last a long time with continuous use.
Is a knee sleeve the same as a brace?
Knee sleeves are not knee braces as sleeves work to provide compression and support to the knee and surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments during exercise or everyday activities to protect this vulnerable joint.
How tight should my knee sleeve be?
You want your knee sleeve to be a firm fit while not totally limiting and restricting blood flow. Too tight can be uncomfortable and too loose just won’t do what it is supposed to.
Wrap Up
The best knee sleeves will work wonders on your knee pain by offering support and stabilization all while boosting confidence and promoting more weight in your lifts. Don’t let vulnerable joints or imbalanced muscles take away from what could be a quality lift. Check out these best knee sleeves for maximum comfort and support and keep yourself as safe as possible while still seeing big gains.
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References
Vaile, Joanna; Stefanovic, Brad; Askew, Christopher D. (2016). “Effect of lower limb compression on blood flow and performance in elite wheelchair rugby athletes”. (source)
Husmann, Florian; Mittlmeier, Thomas; Bruhn, Sven; Zschorlich, Volker; Behrens, Martin (2018). “Impact of Blood Flow Restriction Exercise on Muscle Fatigue Development and Recovery”. (source)
Raabe, Margaret E.; McNally, Michael P.; Chaudhari, Ajit M. W. (2017). “The Effect Of Compression Tights On Muscle Vibration And Fatigue From A High-Intensity Run”. (source)
Lya Bavoil Sets Three Raw World Records During 2021 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Lya Bavoil put on an absolute show during the 2021 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships.
Lya Bavoil has been a force in powerlifting but completely outdid herself during the 2021 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships. This event is taking place from Sept. 29-Oct. 3 in Halmstad, Sweden. Some of the sport’s elite lifters are there to put on a show and Bavoil has topped them all so far.
Bavoil came into the event with high expectations. She already held the world record for squats and total weight. Bavoil competes in the 63kg weight class and set three new world records — squat, deadlift, and total.
It began when Bavoil achieved a squat of 205kg (452lb). This is not the first time she has been at this level. Bavoil completed a 210kg squat earlier this year at French Nationals but it did not count as a world record.
Lya Bavoil then took on the challenge of breaking the deadlift record, previously held by Jordan Panton. She did so by 3kg with a 230.5kg (508.2lb) lift. Sandwiched between was a 112.5kg (248lb) bench press. This was her competition best but well behind the 142.5kg (314.2lb) world record held by Jen Thompson.
In total, Bavoil lifted 548kg (1,208.1lb) which is also a world record. After a performance like this, it is no surprise that Bavoil was the gold medal winner at the event. This bested her 2019 performance where she placed third and won bronze.
“?63 WORLD CHAMPION?.I will need time to express how i feel… so the meet recap & videos will come soon … but for the moment i just want to share that photos and that moment with you … Thank you guys for all your support & all your love ❤️”
This is not the last we will see from Lya Bavoil moving forward. She has a chance to build on her records in future competitions. At just 27 years old, Bavoil has a long career ahead of her and she is just getting started.
This gold medal in the IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships just showed that Bavoil has arrived in the sport. With three world records under her belt, that puts her well near the top of the 63kg division.
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Tamara Walcott Sets Women’s Raw Deadlift World Record of 288.5kg
Tamara Walcott broke the previous record by 1.5 kg.
The 2021 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) The Showdown in Kansas City, MO saw powerlifters set some big-time marks. There were records smashed, both personal and world. Tamara Walcott is high on the list as she set a new women’s raw deadlift world record of 288.5kg (636lb).
With “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins on the speaker, Walcott stepped up to the bar with nothing but a lifting belt and wrist straps. She performed the lift and from the looks of it, had plenty left in the tank. The world-record lift can be viewed on Walcott’s Instagram page.
Tamara Walcott put on a show during the event. She set a personal record with a 165kg (363lb) bench press. This was in addition to the world-record deadlift and competition-best squat at 265kg (584lb).
Walcott will have some room to improve on her world record. She beat the previous mark of 287kg set by Sara Schiff. Before Schiff, it was Jessica Springer who held the world record of 285.7kg. Walcott’s previous best during competition was set at the 2021 Kern US Open back in April when she lifted 272.5kg.
Walcott took to Instagram to post the lift and share some thoughts on the road she has taken to get to where she is.
“I’m not a natural born athlete ….. powerlifting did not come easy to me!!!! When I started this journey to getting strong back in 2017 … 315lb deadlift was my goal!!!! Today I exceeded expectations not only of myself but so many other people out there !!!!! I hope I made you guys proud! I hope I did y’all well! I hope you know YOU CAN DO IT TOO!!!”
Tamara Walcott began competing at events in 2018 at 34 years old. Out of six competitions, she has just one loss and has made an impact on all stages. Walcott competes in the superheavyweight division.
There have been plenty of impressive lifts made by Walcott over the years and that is not going to change. Walcott made this lift look easy and that means there could be some higher numbers in the future.
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