In boxing, what is the protective hand wrap used before gloves are worn called?
VerifiedAnswer: Hand wraps
Explanation:
Hand wraps are essential protective equipment in boxing that every boxer uses before putting on their gloves. These are long strips of cloth or elastic material, typically measuring around 120 to 180 inches in length, that are carefully wrapped around the hands, wrists, and knuckles to provide crucial support and protection during training or competition.
The primary purpose of hand wraps is to protect the numerous small bones in the hand and wrist from injury. When a boxer throws a punch, tremendous force is generated and absorbed by the hand upon impact. Without proper wrapping, this force could easily cause fractures, sprains, or other serious injuries to the delicate bones and joints in the hand.
Hand wraps work by creating a stable foundation that keeps all the bones in the hand properly aligned when making contact. They also provide compression to reduce swelling and support the wrist joint, which is particularly vulnerable during punching motions. The wrapping technique ensures that the metacarpal bones (the long bones in the hand) are held together securely, preventing them from spreading apart upon impact.
There are different types of hand wraps available. Traditional cloth wraps are the most common and require manual wrapping techniques that boxers must learn and master. Mexican-style wraps are slightly longer and stretchier, providing more compression. There are also quick wraps or gel wraps that slip on like gloves but still require some wrapping around the wrist for proper protection.
Professional boxing organizations and amateur boxing associations have specific rules about hand wrapping. The wraps must be applied in the presence of an official before a fight, and the process is carefully monitored to ensure fairness and safety. The proper wrapping technique involves starting at the wrist, going around the hand multiple times, individually wrapping each finger (except the thumb), and securing everything with tape.
It's important to note that hand wraps are always used underneath boxing gloves, never as a replacement for them. The combination of properly applied hand wraps and well-fitted boxing gloves provides the maximum level of protection for both the boxer wearing them and their opponent. This dual protection system has been refined over decades of boxing evolution and remains a fundamental safety requirement in the sport today.
