Volleyball is a sport that requires a lot of hand movements, and it’s not uncommon for players to experience finger injuries. That’s why many volleyball players tape their fingers.
In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why players tape their fingers, how to tape your fingers, and the benefits & tips of finger taping.
Why Do Volleyball Players Tape Their Fingers?
Players tape their fingers for many reasons. Strength and finger protection are the key factors. When you play volleyball, the ball continually exposes your fingers, risking bending or breaking. You can avoid this by taping your fingers.
Another reason players tape their fingers is nail protection. Getting your nails hooked on the ball can hurt and potentially pull them off in volleyball. This can be avoided by taping your fingers.
Materials Needed for finger taping
Volleyball finger tape requires certain ingredients. Typical requirements are:
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Athletic Tape | High-quality sports tape is recommended. Usually permeable, it supports without impeding movement. The tape’s width is usually 1/2 to 1 inch. |
| Scissors | Cut the tape to length with scissors. |
| Pre- or Under-wrap | This thin foam-like substance is applied before athletic tape. It protects your skin and makes tape removal easier. |
How Do You Tape Your Fingers?
To benefit from finger taping, players must tape their fingers correctly. Speak to a trainer, doctor, or coach whenever taping your fingers. If it is not possible, here’s my advice:
| Sr No | Steps Of Finger Taping |
|---|---|
| 1 | Place your hand flat on a hard surface. |
| 2 | Fold the gauze neatly and place it between the fingers you wish to tape together or just around the finger you want to tape alone. |
| 3 | Wrap athletic tape around the base of the finger(s) – wrap up to 3 times. |
| 4 | Reinforce security by wrapping extra tape between the finger joints. |
Volleyball Finger Taping Technique
Tape can support and stabilize volleyball fingers, especially if you’ve had injuries or wish to avoid them. General volleyball finger taping instructions:
Prepare Your Finger
- Clean and dry your finger thoroughly.
- Pre-wrap can protect skin from tape irritation.
Start at the Base
- Start taping the back of your hand below the affected finger’s knuckle.
- For a secure anchor, wrap tape around the finger base twice.
Create an “X” Pattern
- Bring the tape diagonally across the back of the hand and over the top of the affected finger.
- Repeat this process, creating an “X” pattern that covers the joint.
Stabilize The Joint
- Support and stabilize the joint by wrapping tape around it several times.
- Tape shouldn’t be too tight to prevent circulation.
Secure the End
- Finish the taping by wrapping the tape around the back of the hand once or twice.
- Secure the end of the tape.
Range of Motion
- Ensure that your finger still has a comfortable range of motion. Taping should provide support without limiting movement significantly.
Repeat if Necessary
- If you’re taping multiple fingers or need additional support, repeat the process for each finger.
Tips For Taping Fingers
| Sr No | Tip |
|---|---|
| 1 | Taping too tightly can impair circulation. |
| 2 | If pain or discomfort intensifies while taping, remove it and see a doctor. |
| 3 | Practice taping before using it in a game or practice. |
| 4 | Remove the tape quickly if numbness, tingling, or discolouration occurs. |
Benefits of Volleyball Finger Taping
When done right, volleyball finger taping offers the following benefits:
| Sr No | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 1 | Aids in the healing process of the finger. |
| 2 | It helps reduce the risk of potential finger injuries by providing the finger with extra strength. |
| 3 | Minimizes the potential to aggravate the injury. |
| 4 | Gets players back on the court more quickly after injuries. |
Different Reasons for Volleyball Finger Taping
To know how to use volleyball finger tape correctly, consider the following reasons for taping and the recommended techniques.
- Taping for support is very common with blockers and hitters.
- Taping for added strength is also common. A heavy hit to a finger on a table or wall can be uncomfortable. Pain can linger for an extended period while the finger heals. This is why volleyball players need more strength.
FAQs
Practice perfect technique, strengthen your hands, use finger tape, and wear volleyball shoes and splints to protect your fingers.
Volleyball tape is commonly called athletic tape or sports tape. It is used to provide support and stability to fingers, hands, or other body parts during volleyball play.
Yes, players may tape their fingers together for added support and stability, especially if they have a history of injuries or want to prevent them during play.
Taping fingers can provide support and stability, reducing the risk of certain injuries in activities like volleyball. However, it is not a guarantee, and proper technique, conditioning, and awareness are also crucial for injury prevention.
Players wear knee pads in volleyball to protect their knees from abrasions and injuries during dives and falls, providing cushioning and reducing the risk of long-term damage.
Volleyball players touch their shoes as part of a serving ritual. It’s a personal preference or superstition believed to bring luck or enhance performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, volleyball requires finger taping. It prevents injuries, speeds recovery, and gets players back on the floor. Follow the recommendations in this article to properly tape your fingers and reap the benefits of finger taping.
Related Posts
What is a Double Hit in Volleyball?
How To Set Up A Volleyball Net: Net Heights in Different Games
Top 50 Quotes About Volleyball To Inspire & Motivate
Opposite Hitter in Volleyball: Skills, Drills, Tips, Strategies
Texas Volleyball Recruits 2024: Key & Expected Recruits
Yellow Card In Volleyball: Importance, Penalty & Red Card
Can You Use Your Head In Volleyball? Legal & Illegal Contacts
When Is Volleyball Season: All Level Seasons Explained
Aniya Daniel is seasoned volleyball player and expert author at Volleyplan.com.
Aniya Daniel has a rich background as a seasoned volleyball player, having actively participated in the sport for several years. Her passion for volleyball has taken her through various levels of play, contributing to a profound understanding of the game Read More
