Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are a non-negotiable accessory for any MMA fighter, serving as a critical layer of protection for the hands, knuckles, and wrists. They are worn under boxing or MMA gloves to provide support and stability, mitigating the risk of common injuries like sprains, fractures, and jammed knuckles.
The Purpose of Hand Wraps in MMA
The human hand is a complex structure of small bones and delicate joints. When striking with power, the force of impact can travel up through the fist, potentially causing injury. Hand wraps work in several ways to prevent this:
-
Joint and Bone Support: They compress the small bones of the hand and fingers, holding them tightly together to prevent them from shifting on impact. This is particularly important for the knuckles.
-
Wrist Stability: The wraps extend up the wrist, providing a splint-like effect that helps to keep the wrist straight and prevent it from bending awkwardly during a punch. This is crucial for power punching and minimizing the risk of a sprained or broken wrist.
-
Padding: By creating a dense, padded layer around the knuckles, wraps provide an extra cushion that absorbs some of the shock and protects the fist.
Types of Hand Wraps for MMA
There are a few different types of hand wraps, each with its own pros and cons:
-
Traditional Cotton or Mexican-Style Wraps: These are the most popular and versatile option. They are long strips of semi-elastic or non-elastic fabric (typically 120, 180, or 200 inches long) with a thumb loop at one end and a Velcro closure at the other. The "Mexican-style" wraps have a slight stretch, allowing for a tighter, more customized fit. The length you choose depends on the size of your hands and the level of support you need. Longer wraps (180" or 200") are better for those with larger hands or those who want more knuckle and wrist protection. The main benefit of these wraps is that they allow you to customize the wrap to focus on the areas that need the most support, whether it's the knuckles for striking or the wrist for stability.
-
Gel or "Quick" Wraps: These are a newer, more convenient alternative to traditional wraps. They look like fingerless gloves with a padded section over the knuckles and an attached wrist wrap. They can be put on in seconds, which is a major advantage for quick workouts or for people who struggle with the technique of wrapping their hands. While they offer good basic protection, they don't provide the same level of customized support and stability as a well-applied traditional wrap. They are a great option for beginners or for light training.
How Hand Wraps are Used in MMA
For MMA, the wrapping technique is slightly different from traditional boxing. While a boxer might prioritize a dense "knuckle pillow" for maximum power, an MMA fighter needs to maintain some dexterity for grappling and grabbing an opponent. The goal is to find a balance between protection and mobility. The wrap should be snug and secure, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation or makes it difficult to open and close the hand. Many MMA fighters learn a specific wrapping technique that reinforces the wrist and secures the thumb while still allowing for some finger movement.
Regardless of the type, using hand wraps is a fundamental part of a fighter's training routine, ensuring the hands are protected so they can train hard and stay in the game.