What To Know
- Start at the base of your palm and wrap the tape diagonally across your hand, towards the outside of your wrist.
- To finish the first layer, wrap the tape around the outside of your wrist and back to the palm of your hand.
- To finish the second layer, wrap the tape around the inside of your wrist and back to the palm of your hand.
Rowing is a physically demanding sport that requires strong hands and wrists. Proper hand taping techniques can help prevent blisters, calluses, and other injuries, allowing rowers to train and compete without pain or discomfort. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of taping hands for rowing, providing step-by-step instructions and expert tips to help you optimize your hand protection and performance.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Athletic tape (1-2 rolls)
- Scissors
- Towel or rubbing alcohol (optional)
Step-by-Step Taping Instructions
1. Clean and Dry Your Hands
Start by thoroughly washing and drying your hands. This will remove any dirt or oils that could interfere with the tape’s adhesion.
2. Apply a Base Layer (Optional)
If you have particularly sweaty hands, consider applying a thin layer of athletic tape or gauze as a base layer to absorb moisture and prevent slipping.
3. Tape the Thumb
Take a piece of tape and wrap it around the base of your thumb, overlapping slightly. Secure the tape by wrapping it around the outside of your thumb and back to the base.
4. Start the First Layer
With the thumb taped, begin wrapping the first layer of tape around your palm. Start at the base of your palm and wrap the tape diagonally across your hand, towards the outside of your wrist. Overlap the tape slightly with each wrap.
5. Continue the First Layer
Continue wrapping the tape around your palm, gradually moving towards the fingers. Overlap the tape by about half its width to ensure a secure hold.
6. Wrap Around the Fingers
Once you reach the base of your fingers, wrap the tape around the outside of each finger, overlapping slightly. Continue wrapping until the fingers are covered.
7. Secure the Tape
To finish the first layer, wrap the tape around the outside of your wrist and back to the palm of your hand. Secure the tape by overlapping it and pressing firmly.
8. Start the Second Layer
For the second layer, start by wrapping the tape around the inside of your wrist. Overlap the tape slightly with each wrap.
9. Continue the Second Layer
Continue wrapping the tape around the inside of your hand, gradually moving towards the fingers. Overlap the tape by about half its width.
10. Wrap Around the Fingers (Again)
Once you reach the base of your fingers, wrap the tape around the inside of each finger, overlapping slightly. Continue wrapping until the fingers are covered.
11. Secure the Tape
To finish the second layer, wrap the tape around the inside of your wrist and back to the palm of your hand. Secure the tape by overlapping it and pressing firmly.
Tips for Taping Hands
- Use high-quality athletic tape that is designed for sports.
- Overlap the tape by about half its width to ensure a secure hold.
- Wrap the tape tightly, but not too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow.
- If the tape is too loose, it will not provide adequate protection.
- If you have particularly sensitive skin, consider using a tape made with hypoallergenic materials.
- Replace the tape frequently, especially if it becomes wet or dirty.
Benefits of Taping Hands for Rowing
Taping hands for rowing offers numerous benefits, including:
- Prevents blisters and calluses: The tape creates a barrier between the skin and the oars, reducing friction and preventing blisters and calluses.
- Protects against injuries: The tape provides support and stability for the hands and wrists, helping to prevent sprains, strains, and other injuries.
- Improves grip: The tape can help improve grip on the oars, allowing rowers to maintain a secure hold even during intense workouts.
- Reduces pain and discomfort: The tape can help cushion the hands and reduce pain and discomfort caused by rowing.
Final Note: Unlocking Your Rowing Potential
By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can effectively tape your hands for rowing and reap the numerous benefits it offers. Proper hand taping techniques will not only protect your hands from injuries but also enhance your grip, reduce pain, and ultimately unlock your rowing potential. Remember to practice regularly to perfect your taping technique and experience the full benefits of this essential rowing practice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: How often should I replace the tape on my hands?
A: Replace the tape frequently, especially if it becomes wet or dirty. Generally, it is recommended to change the tape every 2-3 days or after each workout.
Q: What type of athletic tape is best for rowing?
A: Choose high-quality athletic tape that is specifically designed for sports. Look for tape that is strong, durable, and moisture-resistant.
Q: Can I use duct tape to tape my hands for rowing?
A: No, duct tape is not recommended for taping hands for rowing. Duct tape is too strong and can restrict blood flow, causing discomfort or even injuries.
