When you walk into a gym and look at the platform where people are lifting weights, you’re bound to notice a few things. There is a lot of chalk – everywhere, a lot of voices, lifting straps and belts, and also – tape. Now, typically, you’ll see this on the thumbs or one of the other fingers of heavy lifters, but there’s no specific weight lifting thumb tapeit is there?
In this article, we’ll answer that question and more as we discuss why weightlifters use tape. What kind of film is this and do you need it for your sessions? So if this sounds like something you want to know more about, then let’s get straight to it.
Why do weightlifters use tape?
Most weightlifters use tape as a way of protection skin on their thumbs and other fingers dry and comfortable. It also prevents their grip from slipping, especially for longer reps or simply during more ideal sessions. This is especially true for people who like to use the so-called hook grip which tends to put a lot of pressure on the thumbs. Additionally, hook grips are notorious for causing chafing on the skin of the thumbs, and tape is one way to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Does weight lifting tape affect grip strength?
One of the biggest problems most weightlifters face comes from the fact that their grip is often not strong enough for the type of weight their body can handle. This is why many use lifting straps to prevent the handle from failing. That being said, how does the film affect it, and does it affect it at all?
Generally, a higher friction surface like the thumb tape keeps the bar from rolling into your hand and keeps it in place so you can keep lifting even if you’re sweating and your palms feel slippery. Along with this, the tape can help keep the bar in place, as unexpected changes in position during the movement can cause you to drop the weight, especially when lifting heavy.
What type of tape do weightlifters use?
Not every type of tape found at the drugstore or even a sporting goods store will be suitable for weightlifting. You should look for one that is made of a stretchy yet durable material and has a textured surface. You also want to make sure it can stick to itself without leaving residue or needing a bandage. Other key features include that it should be easy to tear (by hand, no scissors) and grippy so the bar doesn’t slip and slide in your hand. Unfortunately, many of the grips on the market lack these qualities or fall short of some of them, so you should avoid them if:
- They are very sticky and leave residue on your fingers
- It’s hard to tear with your hands and you’ll need to carry scissors in your gym bag.
- It is too thick and cannot be worn comfortably around the thumb.
- The same applies if it is too thin and does not offer sufficient protection.
- It is made of materials that tear very easily and are not sufficient for dynamic movements.
- Unless it’s classified as a sports movie.
Buying any movie that has any of these features will just be a waste of your hard earned money. It will either be unpleasant to use, completely useless or even harmful. Additionally, you should avoid wrapping your thumb with tape that shortens or cuts your thumb blood flowas this will adversely affect your range of motion and may even cause paresthesia.
What to look for in a tape
Now that we’ve noted what to avoid when buying weightlifting tape, let’s talk a little about what to look for. Ideally, the type you take should:
- Be stretchy – this way, you’ll feel comfortable and won’t restrict blood flow.
- Make it easy to tear – so you don’t have to spend five minutes pulling it or carrying around scissors.
- Be durable – you’ll be wearing it for at least an hour and putting it on the bell, especially as you increase the weight on your bar. That’s why you want to avoid materials that tear quickly – they can compromise your grip and make you have a more ineffective session.
in conclusion
Hopefully this article helped you learn why and when weightlifters use tape. In general, you should only consider this if you lift heavy several times a week and use the hook grip. In addition, the tape is also a must for all you Olympic weightlifters, as the dynamic movements there can often lead to damage to the skin of the thumb if it is not adequately protected.
