How and Why to Tape your Fingers for Jiu Jitsu
Taping your fingers for Jiu Jitsu is often overlooked when it comes to protecting your hands and keeping your grips safe for the long haul.
Jiu jitsu is a challenging sport that requires a combination of strength, skill, strategy and determination. Grip fighting is a crucial and fundamental part of good grappling. That’s why taping your fingers is essential to keeping your grips strong and safe in the game.
By taping your fingers, you can help prevent injuries to the tendons, ligaments, and joints of your hands. In this article, we'll explore why and how you should tape your fingers for jiu jitsu, as well as other ways you can use Grit tape.
So, let's get started and make sure you can do what you love, for better and longer.
Why Should You Tape Your Fingers for BJJ?
Taping your fingers can -
Protect your fingers from injury
Increase your grip strength
Prevent cramps
Protect your skin from friction from gis
Protect any open cuts and wounds
Provide an inexpensive and easy way to ensure your fingers (and toes) stay protected
Taping Techniques
Having a good understanding of proper taping techniques is crucial for safeguarding and providing support to your hands during grappling sessions. It is important to choose the appropriate type of tape that stays on throughout your training and won't leave residue when you take it off.
What Type of Finger Tape Should You Use?
When it comes to taping your fingers for jiu jitsu, the most important thing is to make sure you use tape that will stay in place and protect your joints throughout your entire training, so you can stay safe on the mats.
We have researched tirelessly for the perfect blend of tape material and adhesiveness for the best quality and reliable finger tape for jiu jitsu athletes.
Shop our quality Grit finger tape here.
Finger Taping for Grip Reinforcement
Start by wrapping the tape around the base of your finger, ensuring a snug but not too tight fit. Then, work your way up, around the finger, all the way up to the first joint of your finger. You will tape back down across making an X in the mid joint of the finger and back to the base. Tape another layer for better support. Make sure there’s nothing sticking out at the ends so the tape stays on throughout your training.
Here's a step by step guide on how to tape:
Utilising the "Buddy" System
When dealing with a painful finger injury, using the "buddy system" can significantly aid in the healing process.
Begin by wrapping the injured finger multiple times to ensure it is securely fastened with the finger tape. Then, closely wrap an adjacent uninjured finger with the same tape, creating a protective "buddy" for the injured finger. It is essential to avoid wrapping too tightly to maintain proper blood flow to the fingers.
Thumb Taping
Start by applying a piece of tape across the back of your thumb, encircling your wrist. Then, spiral the tape around your thumb, starting from the base and moving towards the tip. Ensure that each wrap slightly overlaps the previous one to create more tape coverage.
By taping your thumb, you provide protection and enhance your gripping ability, preventing painful injuries that may arise from neglecting this precautionary measure.
Toe Taping
While often overlooked, taping your toes can be beneficial in preventing injuries during grappling.
To ensure your toes are ready for any grappling situation, you will need Grit tape. You can also get foam or gauze to add extra protection.
Begin by wrapping a strip of tape around the base of your toes, ensuring it is snug but not overly tight. Depending on how injured your toes are, you can tape your toes together using the “Buddy System”.
This taping technique helps enhance stability and reduce the risk of toe-related injuries.
Remember, taking the time to apply tape correctly can make a significant difference in preventing injuries and promoting a successful grappling experience.
Conclusion
Incorporating finger taping into your jiu jitsu practice is a highly effective method for safeguarding your fingers and minimising the risk of painful injuries. While it may appear tedious, the investment is worthwhile in the long run. Additionally, don't restrict taping solely to your fingers; you can also consider taping your toes for extra protection. Remember, there is no “one size fits all” solution, so it's essential to find what works best for you.