Whether or not you’re a fan of kickboxing, you have to admit that the athletes who compete in this sport are some of the most physically fit people on the planet. What you may not know, however, is why these athletes wrap their hands before every match. So, why do kickboxers wrap their hands?
Kickboxers wrap their hands to protect their fingers, knuckles, and wrists from impact. The wrapping provides support and stability to the hand and wrist, minimizing injury. In addition, it increases grip strength, which can be beneficial for striking and grappling.
This post will explain the facts behind hand wrapping in kickboxing and how you can wrap your hands properly to protect yourself. Stay tuned!
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Facts About Hand Wrapping in Kickboxing
Most professional boxers and kickboxers wrap their hands before every fight, and it’s considered an essential part of their training and preparation. So, what makes hand wraps so important?
Hand Wrapping Protects Hands From Injuries
The first and most crucial reason kickboxers wrap their hands is to protect them from injuries. When you wrap your hands correctly, you create a buffer between your skin and the striking surface. The protection layer helps absorb some of the impacts and prevents your hands from taking too much damage.
For example, if you were to punch with a bare knuckle, the impact would be distributed across your knuckles. However, if you were to punch with hand wraps, they would absorb some of the impacts, reducing the risk of injury.
Hand Wrapping Helps Maintain a Good Grip
Another reason why hand wraps are so important is that they help you maintain a good grip. When striking, it’s crucial to have a good grip on your gloves to generate as much power as possible.
Hand wraps help to create a tight and secure fit around your glove, which gives you a better grip and more control over your punches. In addition, hand wraps help to absorb sweat and keep your hands dry, which also contributes to a good grip.
Wrapping Hands Supports Wrists and Knuckles
In addition to protecting your hands from injury, hand wraps support your wrists and knuckles. When you wrap your hands correctly, you create a stabilizing effect that helps to minimize the risk of injury to your wrists and knuckles.
Besides, wrapping your hands correctly will also help reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by straining the wrist and hand.
Hand Wraps Prevent Swelling and Bruising
Another benefit of hand wraps is that they help to prevent swelling and bruising. When you wrap your hands, you create a compression effect that helps to reduce swelling and bruising.
In addition, hand wraps help keep blood from pooling in the hands. As a result, you’re less likely to develop bruises or blood blisters.
If you’ve ever been hit in the hand without wraps, you know how painful it can be. Hand wraps help to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with hand strikes.
Hand Wrapping Improves Punch Power and Precision
Last but not least, hand wraps can also help to improve your punch power and precision. When you wrap your hands correctly, you create a more stable platform for your punches. As a result, you can generate more power and deliver more accurate strikes.
Besides, hand wraps help improve your grip, making your punches more powerful and precise.
Tips for Wrapping Your Hands Properly
Now that you know the facts about hand wrapping, you’re probably wondering how to wrap your hands properly. If you do it correctly, hand wrapping can make the difference between a winning performance and a trip to the hospital.
Below are a few tips to help you get started.
Use Cotton or Nylon-Polyester Wraps
The first tip is to choose the suitable material for your hand wraps. You’ll find hand wraps made from various materials, including cotton, nylon, and vinyl.
Cotton hand wraps are the most popular choice among kickboxers. They’re soft and comfortable, and they provide good support. Nylon-polyester hand wraps are also a good option. They’re slightly less supportive than cotton hand wraps but more durable.
For starters, check these Venum Boxing Hand Wraps as an option from Amazon.com. They’re made of elastic cotton and feature velcro closure for unmatched comfort and support, making them a great choice for beginner and experienced kickboxers alike.
Wrap Your Hands Tightly But Not Too Tight
You must wrap your hands tightly but not too tight. If you cover your hands too loosely, they won’t provide enough support. On the other hand, if you wrap your hands too tightly, you may cut off circulation to your hands.
To find the right balance, wrap your hands until the wraps feel snug but not too tight. You should be able to make a fist without feeling any pain or discomfort.
Here’s a cool video tutorial on how to wrap your hands correctly:
Consult Your Instructor
If you’re unsure how to wrap your hands properly, ask your instructor for help. They will show you how to wrap your hands and ensure you’re doing it correctly.
Besides, your instructor can also help you choose suitable hand wraps for your needs. Remember, not all hand wraps are created equal. Different materials offer different levels of support, so it’s essential to choose the wraps for your needs.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it – now you know why kickboxers wrap their hands! By providing support and padding, hand wraps protect the delicate bones and tendons in the hands, wrists, and knuckles. In addition, they help to maintain a good grip and improve punch power and precision.
When wrapping your hands, do so tightly and correctly for the best protection. If you’re ever in doubt, consult a professional trainer or coach to be sure you’re doing it right.