Wrap your fist by first securing your wrist with three loops, then looping around your thumb, going between each finger, securing your knuckles, and finishing by securing your wrist again.
Here's a more detailed breakdown, based on typical boxing hand wrapping techniques:
- Start with the Thumb Loop: Place the loop of the hand wrap over your thumb, ensuring the wrap comes off the bottom of your thumb.
- Secure the Wrist: Wrap around your wrist three times, pulling firmly (but not too tight) to provide support. This is crucial for preventing wrist injuries.
- Wrap the Hand: From the wrist, move across the back of your hand and around your palm, securing the padding. You may want to add extra padding to your knuckles at this stage, depending on your preference and the intensity of your training.
- Between the Fingers: Now, wrap between each finger, starting with your index and middle finger, then middle and ring, and finally ring and pinky. This protects the knuckles and prevents the fingers from splaying during impact. For each wrap, bring the wrap across the back of your hand and back around your palm.
- Secure the Knuckles: After wrapping between each finger, go back across your knuckles several times, building up padding and support. Ensure these wraps are secure, but not so tight that they cut off circulation.
- Thumb Loop Again: Go around your thumb again for added support.
- Final Wrist Wrap: Finish by wrapping any remaining wrap around your wrist, securing the Velcro closure tightly.
Important Considerations:
- Tension: It's critical to find the right balance between tightness and comfort. If the wraps are too loose, they won't provide adequate support. If they're too tight, they can restrict circulation and cause discomfort or even injury.
- Material: Boxing hand wraps are typically made of slightly elastic cotton or a similar material.
- Length: Common lengths for hand wraps are 120" and 180". 180" wraps are generally preferred for their extra length and added protection.
- Practice: It may take a few tries to get the technique down perfectly. Practice wrapping your hands before training sessions to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
- Maintenance: Wash your hand wraps regularly to prevent the build-up of sweat and bacteria.