When it comes to the sport of boxing it’s all about the hands. A boxer’s “mitts” get injured more often than any other part of their body mainly because of the numerous tiny bones contained in them. That’s why it is important to wrap your hands for a boxing match. Using cotton cloths is among the most effective measures a boxer can take to protect their hands. When wrapped properly the cloth safeguards a fighter’s knuckles, wrists, thumbs and bones. Fighters often are banned from engaging in the sport in any form—training, sparring or fighting—if their hands aren’t wrapped.
Step 1
Use the right wrap size for your hands. Wraps that are 3 inches wide and 10 feet long are recommended for those with small hands. Individuals with medium to large hands should use 14-foot cloths. There also are children’s sizes.
Step 2
Check out the various styles to find what works best for you. The classic hook-and-loop cloth is the standard wrap used by most boxers. Mexican-style wraps have more flexibility and are more form fitting, while gel-shock cloths have a rubber inner wrap that adheres a gel-padded layer on top of your knuckles. Quick wraps resemble fingerless gloves. The foam padding safeguards yours hands and knuckles.
Step 3
Wrap your hands by first putting your palm down. Spread your fingers and slide your thumb through the loop. Drape the cloth around your wrist a few times and then around your thumb. Repeat three times.
Step 4
Spread your fingers out and wrap the cloth around your knuckles. Take the wrap over the palm of your hand, around your knuckles and around your wrist again.
Step 5
Safeguard your fingers by threading the cloth between your ring and middle fingers over your thumb and across your knuckles. Repeat until all the cloth is used.
Step 6
Locate the side of the handwrap that says, “This Side Down” and fasten the Velcro. Make a fist to be sure your hand is wrapped tight.
Tips and Warnings
- Don’t get discouraged. Mastering the art of handwrapping takes practice. Experiment with various methods of wrapping once you have mastered the basic technique. The number of times you wrap the cloth around your wrist depends on the length of your wrap.
- Be careful not to wrap your hands too tight or you’ll cut off your circulation.
Things You'll Need
- Handwraps
Member Comments