Wearing volleyball knee pads correctly can greatly minimize the likelihood of unexpected injuries while playing on the court. These essential protective gear items offer cushioning and support to the knees during intense gameplay.
Although they are called volleyball knee pads, it is important to note that they should be worn below the knee to effectively protect the lower knee area.
Some players may make the mistake of wearing it on the kneecap, which can cause discomfort and restrict movement. The correct positioning of knee pads is crucial for maximum effectiveness and comfort.
I will explain the importance of wearing a volleyball knee pad lower on your knee and provide tips to enhance protection and comfort. Let’s get started!
How to wear the volleyball knee pad correctly?
For optimal positioning, it is advisable to wear knee pads just below the knee area. The image below serves as an excellent demonstration of the correct way to wear volleyball knee pads.
It’s perfectly fine to leave your upper knee area completely exposed. Are you concerned about potential injuries during game activities?
Fear not, for I shall explain why!
Why wear volleyball knee pads on the lower knee?
During intense activities in a game, such as digging and diving, it’s not your knee that directly contacts the court floor, but rather the area around your upper tibia bone.
This bone, the second longest in your body, plays a crucial role in your ability to stand and move. It’s an integral part of your overall stability and mobility.
When you dig or slide on the court, your upper shin bone makes direct contact with the playing surface. That’s why we need to protect that area instead of your knee
As evident, the part that makes contact with the floor is not your knee.
To achieve the best knee pad placement, it is advisable to wear it slightly below the knee. Placing it directly in the middle might impede the natural movement of your knee, thereby restricting your mobility during the game.
What happens if you pull the knee pad too high?
If you wear the knee pad slightly higher than your knee area, it will result in two consequences:
- Due to the dynamic movements in your game, the knee pad will naturally shift to a higher position from its original placement.
- When you dive or land your knee on the court floor, it’s important to note that the upper tibia bone area remains uncovered, leaving your knee fully exposed.
This lack of protection may potentially increase the risk of injuries, making it crucial to take preventive measures to ensure your safety and well-being.
Is it necessary to wear a knee pad at all?
To ensure maximum protection and minimize the risk of injuries, it is crucial to always wear knee pads when engaging in activities on the court or practicing moves that involve actions such as digging, sliding, or potential contact with the floor.
By providing an extra layer of cushioning and support to the knees, knee pads can help absorb impact and prevent strains, sprains, or abrasions.
Middle blockers, who often execute high jumps and face the potential risk of contacting the floor with their knees, have the option to wear knee pads for added protection.
On the other hand, defensive positions such as liberos heavily rely on knee pads to mitigate the risk of injuries, particularly after the first match when fatigue may set in. It is crucial for liberos to prioritize wearing knee pads to ensure optimal safety and performance throughout the game.
When selecting a knee pad, it is important to consider its suitability for your specific activities and position. If protection is a priority, a slightly bulkier knee pad would be ideal.
However, if your position requires agility and speed, a lower profile knee pad would be preferable.
To find the perfect pair, refer to the comprehensive guide on choosing the best volleyball knee pad for your position.