In the sport of boxing, the No. 1 weapon is the hand. But due to its small bones, tendons and ligaments, it also faces the highest chances of being injured. Before matches, a boxer's hands are wrapped in gauze and taped with athletic tape, creating a cast to help prevent injury. But special measures also need to be taken during training sessions to assure adequate protection of your hands and wrists. Hand wraps are used to provide protection in training situations, and are relatively simple to apply and replace.
Step 1
Choose the style of hand wrap that provides the most comfort for you. Hand wraps come in two forms: traditional cotton styles, the most common, which feature a velcro square on both sides so they can be secured to the hand; and Mexican style, which features a thicker gauze material that contours to the hand more readily. Some boxers may find the Mexican-style hand wrap better suited to their taste, but due to their lack of velcro, you must use athletic tape to secure them to your hands.
Step 2
Pick a hand wrap length long enough to adequately cover your hand. Children will use a 120-inch wrap, while women and men with smaller hands may find a 160-inch hand wrap suitable. Most men with large hands will use the 180-inch hand wrap.
Step 3
Unravel the hand wrap completely. Some hand wraps will come with "this side up" printed on them, but the easiest way to assure the proper side is up is to make sure the rough velcro square is facing upward.
Step 4
Stand or sit with your palm up, and place your thumb through the hole on the end of the hand wrap.
Step 5
Wind the hand wrap firmly around your wrist three times, creating support for your wrist area. Pull the hand wrap up and around your thumb and around your wrist once again.
Step 6
Apply the hand wrap diagonally up and across your palm, and end by securing the velcro squares. If you used the Mexican-style hand wrap, cut a 4-inch length of athletic tape and apply it to the end of the wrist wrap to assure that it does not slip.
Tips and Warnings
- You can lay hand wraps flat to dry and spray them with a fabric refresher to combat any odors that may occur. You also can machine-wash the wraps in a netted bag.
- If hand wraps feel too tight or too loose, reapply them. Consult your medical provider before beginning any workout regimen.
Things You'll Need
- Scissors
- Athletic tape
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