Boxing wrap

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to wrap your hands using traditional long boxing wraps (usually 180 inches). Wrapping your hands correctly is crucial to protecting your knuckles, wrists, and tendons from the impact of punches.

Step 1: Prepare Your Wraps

Before you begin, make sure your wraps are untangled and stretched out. Locate the thumb loop at one end and the Velcro fastening at the other end.

Step 2: Start with the Thumb Loop

Place the loop over your thumb to anchor the wrap. Most wraps are labeled with “this side down,” so make sure the correct side is facing your skin. Start wrapping by going over the back of your hand, not across the palm. This direction provides better support to your wrist and hand structure.

Step 3: Wrap the Wrist

Wrap the wrist three to four times. This gives your wrist stability and helps prevent injury from hyperextension or twisting when you punch. For more wrist support, wrap the wrist tighter, but ensure it’s not cutting off your circulation.

Step 4: Wrap the Hand

After securing the wrist, move the wrap across the back of your hand and over the top of the knuckles. Wrap the knuckles three times. This padding is essential for absorbing the impact from punches. Make sure the wrap covers the area right under the knuckles, but not so low that it restricts finger movement.

Step 5: Secure Between the Fingers

This is a critical step to ensure the bones in your hand are properly supported. Take the wrap and weave it between your fingers. Start by going between the pinky and ring finger, then go across the back of the hand to secure. Repeat this for the other gaps between the fingers:

• Pinky and ring finger.
• Ring finger and middle finger.
• Middle finger and index finger.

After weaving between each set of fingers, bring the wrap back down across the back of the hand. This prevents your knuckles from rubbing together inside the gloves and provides additional protection.

Step 6: Reinforce the Knuckles

Once you’ve wrapped between the fingers, return to wrapping over the knuckles for extra padding. Do this one or two more times. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight to cause discomfort.

Step 7: Wrap the Thumb

Wrap the thumb once or twice to provide support and prevent sprains or jams. After securing the thumb, bring the wrap back to the wrist.

Step 8: Finish with the Wrist

Use the remaining length of the wrap to go around the wrist a few more times, securing everything in place. Finish by fastening the Velcro around the wrist, making sure the wrap feels secure but not restrictive.

Step 9: Check the Fit

Once the wrap is complete, check the following:

• Circulation: Ensure your hands are not turning purple, indicating the wraps are too tight.
• Flexibility: You should be able to make a fist comfortably.
• Stability: Your knuckles, wrist, and thumb should feel well-supported.

Tips for Wrapping Hands:

1. Consistency: Make sure the wraps are even in tightness throughout. Avoid loose or overly tight sections.
2. Customization: Adjust the amount of wrap around the knuckles or wrists based on your preference or injury history.
3. Keep It Smooth: Avoid bunching the wrap to prevent discomfort while wearing gloves.

Why Boxing Wraps Are Important:

• Protection: They act as an extra layer between your skin and the glove, reducing the risk of skin injuries and fractures.
• Joint Support: Properly wrapped hands support your wrist joints and knuckles, helping you punch with power while minimizing injury risk.
• Longevity: Consistently using wraps can extend the lifespan of your gloves by keeping sweat and moisture away from the glove’s inner padding.