Handwraps for training are an essential piece of protective gear used in combat sports like boxing, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA). Their primary function is to protect the hands and wrists from injury by providing crucial support, stabilization, and padding during intense training sessions. Whether you're hitting the heavy bag, sparring, or doing pad work, handwraps ensure that the small bones, joints, and ligaments in the hands are properly supported, reducing the risk of injury and promoting better technique.
Typically made from materials like cotton, polyester, or a stretchable blend, training handwraps offer a snug fit that conforms to the shape of your hands. This tight fit is critical for maintaining wrist stability and preventing the hand from shifting inside your gloves, which can lead to sprains, fractures, or strains. Elastic handwraps, often referred to as Mexican-style wraps, are particularly popular because they provide flexibility, allowing for a more customized and comfortable fit.
The key benefit of using handwraps for training is their ability to absorb and distribute the impact from punches, reducing the stress on the knuckles and other delicate parts of the hand. Properly wrapped hands provide added cushioning to the knuckles, while the wrist support helps fighters maintain correct form when throwing punches, minimizing the risk of injury. This makes handwraps essential not only for protection but also for enhancing performance by improving technique and power.
Handwraps come in various lengths, with the most common being 120 to 180 inches. Longer wraps offer more layers of protection and can be wrapped around the wrists, knuckles, and thumbs for added support. Most handwraps are secured with a Velcro or hook-and-loop closure, ensuring they stay in place throughout your training session.
In summary, handwraps for training are an indispensable part of any fighter’s gear, providing critical protection and support. They help prevent injuries, stabilize the hands and wrists, and improve overall performance by enhancing punching technique and power. Durable, breathable, and easy to use, they are a must-have for anyone serious about combat sports training.