Hand wraps are an essential protective gear used in combat sports. They are wrapped around the hands and wrists to provide support, prevent injury, and reduce the impact of punches. Hand wraps protect the bones and ligaments in the hand from getting injured during training or competition. There are different types of hand wraps available, with different lengths and materials used. This section will describe hand wraps and their purpose, as well as the types of hand wraps available.
Combat sports, such as boxing and mixed martial arts, always carry a risk of injury. It is crucial for athletes to take precautions to protect themselves from damage during training and fights. This article aims to provide an overview of two essential items for combat sports protection: hand wraps and gloves.
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are long pieces of fabric that are wrapped around the hands and wrists before putting on gloves. Their primary purpose is to protect the bones and ligaments in the hand. The bones in the hand, particularly the small bones located near the wrist, are vulnerable to fracture during high-impact punches. Wrapping the hands provide a firm structure that keeps the bones from shifting around.
Types of hand wraps available
There are two main types of hand wraps available: traditional and gel. Traditional cotton hand wraps are cheaper, easily accessible, and come in different lengths and colors. In contrast, gel hand wraps are more expensive and contain a layer of gel for extra padding, reducing the impact of punches.
Gloves
Gloves are an essential piece of equipment for combat sports that provide protection for the hand and wrist. They cushion the impact of punches, reduce the risk of cuts, and provide a significant amount of support for the wrist, reducing the risk of fractures and sprains.
Types of gloves available
The boxing glove is the most commonly used glove in combat sports. There are different sizes and types of boxing gloves available, including those for training and competition. Another type of glove is MMA gloves, which have less padding but allow for more versatile striking techniques.
Hand Wraps vs Gloves
Hand wraps are cheaper than gloves and can be used multiple times before they need replacing. However, hand wraps are not as convenient to put on and take off as gloves, which can be a hassle during training sessions.
Advantages and disadvantages of using gloves
Gloves provide more protection and support than hand wraps, making them an essential item for combat sports. However, they are more expensive than hand wraps and need replacing more frequently. Gloves can also limit hand movement and feel bulky compared to hand wraps.
Comparison of protection offered by hand wraps and gloves
In terms of protection, gloves offer more cushioning and support than hand wraps. Gloves are designed to absorb the impact of punches and reduce the risk of injury. Hand wraps provide basic protection for the bones and ligaments in the hand, but not as much as gloves.
Can I use hand wraps instead of gloves?
Hand wraps are commonly used in training, but for competitions, gloves are mandatory. If you decide to use hand wraps during training, ensure that they are thick and provide enough padding to protect your hand from injury. However, it is recommended to use gloves during sparring sessions to prevent unnecessary injuries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both hand wraps and gloves provide protection to combat sports athletes. Hand wraps are cheaper, but gloves offer more support and cushioning than hand wraps. Ultimately, the choice between hand wraps and gloves comes down to personal preference and the level of protection required. It is important to use gloves during competitions to ensure proper protection and safety.