Rock climbing can be an exhilarating sport that pushes your physical limits. As a beginner, you might be enthusiastic about climbing, but you're also at a higher risk of injuring your fingers. Taping your fingers is a common practice among climbers to protect their hands from cuts, blisters, and strain. In this beginner's guide, we will explain how to properly tape your fingers for climbing.
Why should you tape your fingers for climbing?
Taping your fingers for climbing offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides added support to your fingertips, reducing strain and preventing injuries. It also helps to prevent blisters and calluses, which can be painful and affect your climbing performance. Additionally, taping can protect your fingers from abrasive surfaces, such as rough rocks, preventing cuts and scrapes.
What materials do you need?
- 1-2 rolls of climbing tape
- Scissors
- Alcohol wipes or sanitizing gel
Make sure to use climbing tape specifically designed for this purpose, as it provides the right level of stickiness and flexibility.
How to tape your fingers properly?
1. Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them before taping.
2. Start by tearing a small strip of tape, about 6 inches long.
3. Place one end of the tape on the back of your hand, near the base of your finger.
4. Wrap the tape around your finger in a spiral motion, overlapping each wrap by about half the width of the tape.
5. Continue wrapping until you reach the top joint of your finger.
6. Cut the tape, leaving a small tail to secure the end.
7. Repeat the process for each finger you want to tape.
8. To provide additional support, you can create an "X" pattern by wrapping the tape diagonally across your finger.
9. Make sure not to wrap the tape too tight to avoid cutting off circulation.
When should you tape your fingers?
Taping your fingers is especially important when you feel any discomfort or get minor cuts or blisters. It's also beneficial to tape preventatively before a climbing session, as it can help reduce strain and protect your fingers from potential injuries.
How often should you retape your fingers?
The frequency of retaping will depend on the individual climber and the intensity and duration of their climbing sessions. As a beginner, start by retaping whenever you feel discomfort or notice the tape starting to come off. With experience, you will learn the optimal taping duration for your specific needs.
Remember, taping your fingers is not a substitute for proper climbing technique and training. It is only a supplemental measure to protect your fingers and enhance your climbing experience. Happy climbing!