Insurance kit: these simple solutions prevent and assuage pain

Muscle & Fitness, March, 2008 by Dennis Nishi

Getting banged up isn't the most enjoyable part of being active, so we found plenty of cheap ways to protect yourself before and after trauma.

1) Giro Xen Helmet It's light and full of big holes, but it'll keep your cranium safe and cool. $159, giro.com

2) Bike Proflex Max Protective Cup The rubber flange around the edge gives it some flexibility when you need it most. $7, bikeathletic.com

3) Cho-Pat Dual-Action Knee Strap If your knees are weak, this dual-action support offers additional stability and keeps everything properly aligned. $26, cho-pat.com

4) OPro Pro Impact Mouth Guard Kit Protect your grill from a walloping right cross with this custom-fit guard. $75, opro.com

5) Thera-Med Small Universal Cold Pack The fastest way back into the game is immediate treatment. This ice pack-in-a-sleeve slips over arms and legs to keep swelling down. $16, thera-med.com

6) Title Mexican-Style Handwraps Good wraps are vital to protect the bones and tendons in your hands, and these old standards include spandex for a snug stretch. $5, title boxing.com

7) Speedo Air Seal XR Mirrored Swim Goggles Good optics are critical in murky, chlorine-filled gym pools. The curved lenses of the XRs are airtight and have an anti-fog and UV coating. $25, speedousa.com