Sports tape is a tape used to stabilize and relieve pressure on joints, muscles, and ligaments during training, matches, or rehabilitation. It is often used to tape, for example, ankles, wrists, fingers, or knees to provide extra support and reduce strain in an area that feels unstable or vulnerable.
Sports tape is common in many sports such as football, handball, hockey, basketball, and martial arts where the body is exposed to rapid movements, jumps, or contact.
What is sports tape used for?
Sports tape is primarily used to provide stability and control around a body part. It can be used both preventatively and after an injury.
Common uses include:
- taping a sprained ankle
- wrist support during strain
- taping fingers in contact sports
- relief around the knee joint
- support for thumb or shoulder
Taping can also be used before training or a match to reinforce an area that has previously been injured.
How does sports tape work?
Sports tape works by providing mechanical support around a joint or muscle. The tape can restrict certain movements and contribute to increased stability during activity.
For example, with a sprained ankle, tape can help reduce the risk of the joint ending up in an extreme position that causes pain or increases the risk of a new injury.
Different types of sports tape
There are several types of tape used in sports and rehabilitation.
Non-elastic sports tape
Provides clear stability and is often used for taping ankles, wrists, or fingers.
EAB (elastic adhesive bandage)
An elastic tape that provides support while allowing more movement.
Kinesiology tape
An elastic tape used to influence movement and relief without locking the joint as much.
What is the difference between sports tape and kinesiology tape?
The main difference lies in the amount of stability they provide.
Sports tape is most often used to stabilize and restrict movement in a joint.
Kinesiology tape is more elastic and is used for more mobile support.
In short:
- Sports tape → stability and control
- Kinesiology tape → mobility and relief
When should you use sports tape?
Sports tape can be a good option when you:
- are returning after a sprain
- have an unstable joint
- want to provide extra support during a match or training
- want to protect an area that is often overloaded
Many athletes use sports tape as part of their routine before activity, especially for ankle or wrist problems.
Common taping mistakes
For tape to work well, it is important to use it correctly. Common mistakes include:
- taping too loosely
- taping too tightly
- using the wrong type of tape
- taping without dry skin
Tape should be seen as support during activity and not as a substitute for rehabilitation.
Buy sports tape online
At Return to Play you will find sports tape for sports, training, and rehabilitation. It is a Swedish e-commerce store with sports medicine products and fast deliveries from a Swedish warehouse.
Frequently asked questions about sports tape
What is sports tape?
Sports tape is a tape used to stabilize and relieve pressure on joints, muscles, and ligaments during training or rehabilitation.
What is sports tape used for?
It is often used to tape ankles, wrists, fingers, or knees to provide support and stability.
Can sports tape be used for a sprained ankle?
Yes, sports tape is often used to provide support when returning to activity after a sprain.