How to Wrap Your Hands for Boxing: Step-by-Step Guide

By Everlast

10 minutes

Before putting on boxing gloves, boxers wrap their hands with hand wraps to protect tendons, muscles, and provide wrist support. Featuring a Velcro strip, the wrap securely adheres to itself for a snug, protective fit during training or competition. Use this step by step guide for how to wrap your hands for boxing or MMA.

Types of Hand Wraps
When selecting a boxing hand wrap, it’s important to consider the size of your hands and the type of boxing you’ll be doing. Here are some options to help you make the best choice:
Cotton Wraps: Ideal for frequent training and sparring, cotton wraps come in adult and junior sizes and are secured with Velcro at the end. They provide a reliable option for daily use.
Mexican Wraps: These are similar to cotton wraps but woven with elastic fibers for a better fit. Though they mold to the hand more easily, they aren’t as durable as cotton wraps because the elastic wears out over time. They’re a good choice for training.
Gel Wraps: Unlike traditional wraps, gel wraps slip on like fingerless gloves. They are convenient and easy to use but don’t offer as much wrist support. While more expensive, they aren’t typically favored by serious boxers due to their limited support.
Competition Wraps: Made from gauze and tape, these wraps are used for official bouts. Boxing regulations specify the exact amount of gauze and tape to ensure consistency between fighters. Since they are not reusable, they’re impractical for everyday training and require a partner or coach to apply properly.

What's the difference between 120" and 180"?
The main difference between 180-inch and 120-inch hand wraps is their length. 180-inch wraps provide extra coverage and support, making them ideal for larger hands or individuals needing additional protection for their wrists and knuckles, especially during intense training or sparring. On the other hand, 120-inch wraps are shorter, offering sufficient support for smaller hands or lighter workouts, with less bulk and quicker application. Essentially, 180-inch wraps are better for those requiring more stability, while 120-inch wraps are perfect for everyday training or beginners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wrap
1. Lay the wrap flat on a surface with the loop (thumb hole) facing up.
2. Ensure the Velcro end is free and not tangled.

Step 2: Insert Your Thumb
1. Insert your thumb through the loop.
2. Let the wrap rest on the back of your hand, with the Velcro end pointing toward your wrist.

Step 3: Wrap Around Your Wrist
1. Start wrapping just above your wrist bone.
2. Make 2-3 snug loops around your wrist for stability.
3. Ensure the wrap is tight but not cutting off circulation.

Step 4: Wrap Around Your Thumb
1. After wrapping your wrist, bring the wrap diagonally across the back of your hand.
2. Loop it around your thumb once, then bring it back across the back of your hand to the wrist.

Step 6: Create an "X" Across Your Hand
1. After wrapping your knuckles, bring the wrap diagonally across the back of your hand to the base of your thumb.
2. Loop around your thumb once more, then bring it back diagonally to the wrist, forming an "X" on the back of your hand.

Step 5: Wrap Your Knuckles
1. After looping around your thumb, bring the wrap across your palm and over your knuckles.
2. Wrap around your knuckles 2-3 times, ensuring they are fully covered for protection.

Step 7: Secure Your Fingers
1. After forming the "X," bring the wrap between your pinky and ring finger.
2. Loop it around your wrist, then bring it between your ring and middle finger.
3. Repeat for each finger, ending with the space between your index finger and thumb.

Step 8: Finish with the Wrist
1. After securing your fingers, wrap the remaining fabric around your wrist 2-3 times.
2. Secure the wrap with the Velcro strap, ensuring it’s snug but comfortable.

Step 9: Check the Fit
1. Make a fist to ensure the wrap feels secure but not too tight.
2. Adjust if necessary to ensure proper circulation and comfort.