Issue 041
September 2008
Why Use Them?
Because you value your testicles. Although the groin isn’t a legal target area for MMA, accidents happen, so it’s better to be prepared.
When Would You Use Them?
Anytime there’s a risk of your training partner catching you in the groin with a stray knee or misplaced foot. In other words, any time you are training. It’s just as important to wear a groin guard when you are just wrestling or grappling as it is when there is striking involved.
Key Features
The cup
The cup is most commonly made out of plastic. It is possible to get ones made from metal – these are mostly the Thai-style groin guards. This might sound tempting to anyone who’s heard the horror stories about someone’s plastic groin guard splitting on impact. Either way, the important thing is to check the quality of the product you are buying and get one that feels solid.
Edges
The edge of the cup is usually padded with a rubber rim. Some styles have padding that is stitched on. Always check this is firmly attached and that there are no sharp bits.
Fastening
Most common is the traditional elasticated ‘jock strap’. The Thai-style groin guards fasten with strings that tie between the legs and around the waist. A more recent innovation are the specially designed boxer shorts with a cup that slips into a pouch at the front. Great for security, but you may need several pairs of the shorts, or find yourself having to wash them after every training session.
Female groin guards
Even without testicles, the groin can be a sensitive area. It is possible to get female groin guards, although they aren’t compulsory in competition for women, and few seem to bother.
General Tips
Get the right fit
It can be a sensitive subject, but make sure you get the right size for you. Automatically asking for a ‘large’ may not always be the best plan. You want a snug fit for maximum protection, but on the other hand you definitely don’t want your stuff getting caught on the outside of the cup.
Finding the right groin guard for you is a very personal thing. Most people will need to buy several different makes, and wear each one for a while before they find one that they feel really comfortable with. As it’s one of the few items of protection you will wear in a fight, it’s worth spending some time and money to get one that you are comfortable in.
Care and maintenance
Wash your jock strap regularly, as the groin is a common area for fungal infections (known as ‘jock itch’). Always check the cup regularly – make sure the padding on the rim is firmly attached so there are no sharp bits, and that there are no signs of cracks. You will also need to replace the jock strap if the elastic starts to lose its spring.
Always wanted to know...
What’s the most popular size of groin guards sold?
We thought it was always going to be large (of course!) but we asked one of our specialist retailers, TKO Sports, and it’s true, “Our most popular sized groin guard is a size large for sure!”
Amer Gill TKO Sports
Total Knockout Sports, Coventry 02476 663016
