Issue 062
May 2010
Your fists are your most valuable tools. A fighter with damaged hands can’t train and can’t fight. Make sure you’re looking after your hands by wrapping them for every training session. If you’re confused by the different types of supports available, read on for an explanation.
Length
Hand wraps come in different lengths. The length you prefer will depend on the size of your hands and how much protection you want. It can also depend on what you are planning to do in them – a heavier wrap may be appropriate when hitting the bag, but for MMA sparring and fighting you may need to use a lighter wrap to allow more use of the hands.
Why Use Them?
To protect your hands while striking. A good hand wrap will help to support the bones and joints in the wrist and hand, and prevent injuries. They reduce your chances of breaking your hand if you land a punch at an awkward angle, or if you hit something unexpectedly bony at the wrong distance. They may also help to prevent the wear and tear in the joints of your wrist that can build up over years of punching things.
When Would You Use Them?
Any time you are hitting the pads or bag, sparring or fighting. The type of wrap you use can vary depending on exactly what you’re doing, but if you value your hands then get into the habit of wrapping them for every session that involves punching.
Gel Hand Wrap
This is a shock absorbing gel-filled mitt that fits over the knuckles. They provide some extra protection for the knuckles themselves, but not to the rest of the hand. Sometimes they are combined with a fabric wrap that can be applied over the top to give the benefits of both. They are significantly more expensive than ordinary wraps and, although some enthusiasts love them, they are mostly frowned upon by purists.
Style
Traditional hand wraps are made from cotton and don’t stretch. Mexican-style (or elastic-style) hand wraps have some stretch to them and may be more comfortable than a traditional wrap. They are also more expensive. Both types are reusable and washable.
Most reusable hand wraps will come with a loop to put your thumb in when you start wrapping, and a Velcro fastener at the end to secure the wrist. Some come with a surprisingly useful feature: the words “This side down” printed near the thumb loop!
The gauze-bandage wraps are the type most commonly used in fights. They are non-reusable and more difficult to put on, and so are not often used for training. Typically they are applied together with sports tape to provide maximum protection to the hands.
Wrapping your hands for a fight
There are usually strict rules as to how you can wrap your hands for a fight. Make sure you know these in advance. Typically you will not be allowed to use the traditional or Mexican-style wraps, and will be expected to have your own gauze and tape. Wrapping a fighter’s hands in this way is a skill in itself and not something you should try for the first time on fight night!
How heavily to wrap a fighter’s hands is a judgment call. Too little, and they risk breaking their hand. Too much, and they may lose dexterity for grappling. Some methods aim to get the best of both worlds. These all need to be tried and tested in advance, as much will depend on the individual fighter and their preference and fighting style.
Care of your hand wraps
Reusable wraps should be washed as often as possible – some say after every session. This will require you to have several pairs of wraps and a good deal of organization! Be careful when washing colored wraps (especially red) as they tend to run. You wouldn’t be the first person to turn a brand new BJJ gi a tasteful shade of pink. You may find it easier to get a mesh bag to put your hand wraps in when you wash them. This will save you having to untangle them from your underwear later.
