Basket

Guide · wrist

How to apply kinesiology tape to the wrist

People use tape on the wrist for a feeling of support during typing, lifting, climbing, yoga and racket sports. The wrist application is small and quick — one short strip along the forearm and one around the joint.

Before you start

  • Clean, dry skin — no cream, oil or sweat. Apply about 30 minutes before activity.
  • Cut your strips: One I-strip about 15–20 cm and one shorter strip about 10–12 cm. Round the corners.
  • Anchors and ends go on with no stretch; only the middle of a strip is stretched.
  • Round every corner so the tape doesn't catch on clothing.
Line drawing of the wrist with kinesiology tape placement shown as teal strips

Steps

  1. Hold the hand palm down, wrist slightly bent

    Rest the forearm on a table with the hand hanging over the edge so the skin on the back of the wrist is gently stretched.

    Tension: none

  2. Anchor the long strip on the back of the hand

    Stick a 5 cm anchor across the back of the hand just below the knuckles, with no stretch.

    Tension: none

  3. Lay the strip up the forearm

    Peel and lay the strip over the back of the wrist and along the forearm, finishing about a third of the way to the elbow.

    Tension: light

  4. Wrap the short strip around the wrist

    Place the middle of the short strip on the back of the wrist and lay each end around the sides towards the palm, without overlapping the ends.

    Tension: light to medium in the middle, none at the ends

  5. Rub to set

    Rub every strip firmly for 20–30 seconds. Make a fist and open the hand a few times to check the tape moves comfortably.

    Tension: none

How long it stays on and how to remove it

Applied this way, the tape usually stays on for 3 to 5 days, through showers and training. To remove it, hold the skin with one hand and peel the tape back slowly in the direction of hair growth — in the shower or with a little oil if you prefer.

Good to know

Tape is for comfort and support during activity. If you have an injury or a health concern, speak to a GP or physiotherapist before using it.

What you need

Energelbo Starter Kit laid out in an open kraft-white box: one black tape roll, tape scissors and an A5 printed application guide

Starter Kit

1 × tape roll, 5 cm × 5 m — choose black, beige or blue

£16.99 incl. VAT

Details

Questions about taping the wrist

Can I type and use a mouse with tape on?

Yes. Keep the wrap strip light so it doesn't restrict the wrist.

Which tape is best for the wrist?

Pre-cut 25 cm strips can be cut in half for the wrap, or use a 5 cm roll. The wide roll is too wide for the wrist.

Can I wash my hands and shower?

Yes. The tape is water-resistant. Pat it dry rather than rubbing it with a towel.