Hand wraps or bandages play a crucial role in protecting the hands of athletes in combat sports. While disposable wraps are typically used in combat sports and are cut off the competitors' hands after the event, reusable bandages offer a sustainable alternative that can be washed and reused. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of wrapping your hands with reusable wraps that provide adequate support and protection.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you start wrapping your hand, you will most likely need to unroll the bandages. They are usually rolled up into a ball or coil, so they need to be stretched out.
Note: After using the bandages, you will need to wash them, and once they are clean again, you will need to roll them back into their original shape, otherwise it will be very difficult to put them back on your hands.
Step 2: Start with clean and dry hands
Before wrapping, make sure your hands are clean and dry. This will prevent bacteria from forming and help the wraps stay in place during training or competition.
Step 3: Put on the thumb loop
Hold the reusable hand wrap by the thumb loop and put it on your thumb. This loop will hold the wrap in place while you wrap your hand.
Step 4: Wrap around the wrist
Start wrapping the arm wrap around the wrist. Start under the thumb and make a full circle around the wrist. Continue wrapping around the wrist at least three times, making sure the wrap is tight but not too tight.
Step 5: Wrap around the knuckles
Starting at the base of your thumb, wrap the bandage diagonally across the back of your hand toward your little finger. Continue wrapping across the knuckles, creating a "V" shape between your fingers. Repeat this process at least three times, ensuring that the wrap is tight enough to provide support but does not restrict blood flow.
Step 6: Secure your fingers
Once you have wrapped your wrists, slide the wrap down between your index and middle fingers. Continue wrapping around your palm and cover each finger individually. Make a figure eight between each finger and cross the wrap over the back of your palm. Repeat this process for all fingers, including the thumb.
Step 7: Wrap the thumb
After wrapping the wrist, move the wrap over the palm and wrap it around the base of the thumb. Make sure the wrap is tight but allows for movement and flexibility. Wrapping the thumb is especially important before sparring, as it can often get caught on your opponent and, if not wrapped, can quickly lead to injury.
Step 8: Finish with the wrist
Once you have secured your fingers, wrap the remaining part of the hand wrap around your wrist. This step strengthens the stability of the wrist and provides additional support.
Step 9: Fasten the wrap
When you have finished wrapping your hand, secure the wrap by fastening it. Make sure the wrap is tight, but not too tight, as it must allow for proper blood circulation and flexibility.
You can also watch a video prepared by UFC fighter Michael Chandler:
How To Wrap Your Hands For Boxing/MMA Taught By Michael Chandler
Conclusion:
Reusable hand wraps are a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for athletes who want to reduce waste without compromising hand protection. By following this step-by-step guide, you can effectively wrap your hands with reusable hand wraps that provide the necessary support and reduce the risk of injury. Remember to practice the technique and consult with a trainer or experienced fighter to ensure proper wrapping and protection. With reusable hand wraps, you can enjoy training or competition while being mindful of the environment. At Fightshop, we offer wraps from various manufacturers; you can view our selection at the following link:
Bandages – FightShop.si