Effects of Knee Sleeve Density on Theoretical Neuromuscular Capacities Derived from the Force-Velocity-Power Profile in the Back Squat.

Background

Neoprene knee sleeves are commonly used to enhance joint stability and mechanical performance during resistance training. However, the specific influence of sleeve density on the force-velocity-power (F-V-P) profile during multi-joint lower-body exercises such as the back squat remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the theoretical F-V-P parameters derived from back squat performance while wearing low-density (LD) versus high-density (HD) knee sleeves.

Methods

Fifteen resistance-trained males completed an incremental back squat test under both LD and HD conditions. A linear position transducer recorded barbell displacement and velocity. Individual force-velocity relationships were modelled to determine maximal theoretical force (F0), velocity (V0), power (Pmax), and the F-V slope. Paired-sample t-tests, linear mixed models, and Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated. Clinical relevance was assessed using a threshold defined as 0.2 × the standard deviation of the HD condition. Bayesian analyses were conducted to estimate the probability and magnitude of the observed effects.

Results

No statistically significant differences were observed between sleeve conditions for F0, V0, Pmax, or F-V slope (p > 0.05, d ≤ 0.37). Nonetheless, HD sleeves yielded slightly higher mean values for F0, V0, and Pmax, exceeding the predefined threshold for practical relevance. Bayesian models showed moderate probabilities (~0.80) that HD sleeves outperformed LD, though with limited chances of crossing the clinical significance threshold.

Conclusions

Although HD sleeves do not produce systematic changes in F-V-P parameters, their increased material stiffness may provide small yet practically meaningful mechanical advantages in high-force resistance training contexts.