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

## TL;DR

This study found that high-density knee sleeves may offer small mechanical advantages during back squats, though differences in force, velocity, and power were not statistically significant.

## Contribution

The study is novel in comparing the effects of low- and high-density knee sleeves on theoretical neuromuscular capacities during back squats.

## Key findings

- High-density (HD) knee sleeves showed slightly higher theoretical force, velocity, and power values compared to low-density (LD) sleeves.
- Differences between sleeve conditions were not statistically significant but exceeded a practical relevance threshold.
- Bayesian analysis suggested moderate probability that HD sleeves outperformed LD sleeves.

## Abstract

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.