Wrist wraps are one of the most underrated equipments for workouts. Combat sport fighters learn how to put wrist wraps to armor their tendons.
Equipment description
Many people might believe that wrist wraps are workout gear; some athletes prefer to look fancy or sporty. But it has a role to perform.
Material: These are made of cotton or nylon, measuring 18 inches.
Size: The sizes can vary as well, depending on the hand size of the athlete.
Length: The length could be from 12 to 36 inches, including a sturdy loop at one end and a Velcro strip.
Should you use wraps?
People have different opinions on wrist wraps. Some athletes think using wrist wraps is super necessary because when you lift heavy, there are chances that your hand or wrist could get a jerk, leading to injuries. Others think that additional support or stability is cheating and you should have control over your wrist all by yourself. So you’ve to answer this question yourself, do what suits you.
Related Article: Do Straight Leg Sit Ups To Activate Your Abs
The significance of wraps in MMA/Boxing
For some athletes, wrist wraps are 100% essential, especially the ones who are in combat sports. If boxers or MMA fighters do not use wrist wraps in their sparring fighters, 90% of the chance is that they will pick an injury. Wrist wraps keep your hand intact and aligned when you catch your opponent with a well-connected shot in sparring.
If you don’t wear the wrist wraps, your hand could be dislocated or swollen. For fighters, wrist wraps are a protective barrier; small bones could be fragile. Wrist wraps cushion the impact of the wrist and protects the tendons with your muscles.
Types of wraps
There are four different types of wraps, which are made up of various materials, known as elastic bandage, gel, competition, and cotton wraps.
1) Elastic bandage Wraps
These wraps contain a lot of elastic fibers; they would fit tightly to your hand when they are new. But slowly, their adjustable gets worn out. They could be thick for some boxers, but for a temporary period, they could help you in weightlifting.
2) Gel Wraps
These wraps will provide little support; they slip and are more expensive than elastic wraps. These are not recommended for weightlifting; they could cause a twist in the wrist that could lead to injuries. Even for boxing, they might not be the best fist. But for some fighters, it is very convenient too.
3) Competition Wraps
These are for one-time use, with a mixture of gauze and tape. They are made for old-school boxing; they could be stiff for weightlifting. They also are wrapped on the hands with a different technique and require a partner to help.
4) Cotton Wraps
If you’re training in boxing, then these are highly recommendable. Since they can be used repeatedly, shorter wraps would be better for shadow boxing, and longer could be for fights. They could be great for weightlifting, too, if you’re comfortable. Always remember things work differently for every athlete. You get the wraps that are comfortable on your hands.
Related Article: Mastering The Sumo Squat With Barbell: A Comprehensive Guide
How to put on wrist wraps + MMA / Boxing
There are many different ways to wrap your hands. Fighters go by their comfort; their methods of wrapping their hands differ. Your wrapping technique might be different when you hit the bag compared to your sparring session. Let’s talk about the most straightforward process, which could work for everyone.
1) Put your thumb through the loop
After that, you’ve selected your wraps and unrolled them, and it’s time to stretch your hand out with the wrist straight. While you’re wrapping, your fingers should be broad, and your thumb through the hole at the end of your wrap.
2) Start by wrapping your wrist
Start with your thumb coming across from the back of your wrist. Do it 3 or 4 times; make sure the wrap is flat.
3) Now it’s time to wrap the hand
Stretch the wrap around the back of your palm. Adjust it above the thumb so it is free, and just like your wrist, wrap it across your hand. Wrap it 3 or 4 times, ending at the base of your thumb.
4) Wrap the thumb and assist it till the wrist
Wind the wrap up from the base of your thumb till the top. Then bring it again downwards and finish it till the bottom. But with that, end it by wrapping it around your wrist again for extra stability.
5) Wrap the fingers and secure the wrap
They wrap the fingers inside out, from the pinkie to the index finger. Wrap it up till the end of Velcro, and then check it out by landing some punches. Understand that you have to make it loose or tight. Make it. However, it feels comfortable to you. Remember that the wrap will protect your hand, so do not make it too close. Protection should be the vital aim. If your wrap is short and it’s hard to cover your hand thoroughly. Then prioritize the wrap and anchor the thumb. End it by wrapping the hand before securing the Velcro.
Related Article: Do Crunches On A Bench to Demonstrate The Six-Pack Abs
How to put wrist wraps + Weightlifting
These are the wraps that can only be used for weightlifting. They cannot be used for combat sports and are much easier to wear than MMA wraps.
- First of all, make sure that the thumb loop is pointed upwards.
- The loop should align with the long fabric strip inside your wrist.
- The velcro portion should be facing up to fasten the wrap properly.
- Your thumb should come through the loop and the fabric around your wrist.
- The material must be tight, and Velcro is there to secure the strip.
wrist wraps used for bodybuilding
Different brands make bodybuilding wrist wraps; let’s discuss other wrist wraps regarding quality and longevity.
1) Stiff Wrist Wraps
These are the wraps that are thicker and more long-lasting. They could be in various sizes, from 12 to 36 inches long. Each brand has its individuality, one could be suitable for class powerlifters, and the other might be good for bodybuilders.
2) 18th VELCRO Wrist Wraps
These are different because of their texture, made with cotton or nylon, but they are suitable for long-term use. Mostly they are found 18 inches in length and are the most popular for bodybuilding exercises like bench presses or shoulder presses.
3) Strength Wrist Wraps
These are best for powerlifting since they are less bulky and have a more extended fabric design. They are adjustable by quick movements and are handy—most athletes who fall in this category, like Gymreapers.
Can bodybuilding wraps be used for MMA/boxing?
The answer is ‘no, they cannot be used.’ This is because the gym wraps do not cover your hand. When you are boxing, you need stability on your hand, which a gym wrap cannot provide you. Gym wraps are more wrist oriented, but for some weightlifters, MMA wraps are comfortable. So using MMA wraps for the gym is your decision. If you feel that comfortable, you can go ahead with it.
Related Article: How To Build Capped Deltoids With One Arm Cable Lateral Raise
Should everyone use wraps?
Wrapping your hands is different for every athlete. If you’re in combat sports, then it is essential. In bodybuilding, weightlifting, or CrossFit, it’s your decision. It is recommended, but some athletes could function better without them.
But they have a variety of benefits in weightlifting, too, especially when you’re performing exercises that require a jerk or a push movement, as they will make your range of motion more beneficial.
The Bottom Line
Remember wrapping up is your decision if you’re working out; understand that you are going to take care of your body. So rather than taking risks, use the wraps. Avoid injuries, especially in the sparring sessions. Never fight without wrapping your hands; all the fighters in the world, whether kickboxers, muay Thai fighters, or boxers, all wrap their hands. They do not use boxing gloves at times, but they use wraps. But always go for the wraps, which are comfortable for you, and you’re performing with a good flow. Even before that, get to know your goal and only invest in the right gear. Preferably it is going to last longer.
