Kinesiology Tape
You’ve probably seen sports players and athletes wearing bright coloured tape on their legs, arms, back and other areas over the last few years. This is Kinesiology Tape. It’s been around since the 1970s and first made an appearance in Japan. Today it can be found all over the world in all sorts of shapes, numerous brands and wonderful colours.
So What Does It Do?
Kinesiology tape (also know as K Tape or athletic tape) was designed to help in the healing process of traumatised soft tissue and muscles and has since become an essential tool for pain relief and pain management as well as lymphatic drainage. It can be use alongside sports physical therapy to improve athletic performance.
The tape is applied differently for each type of injury or pain because the aim is to target specific soft tissues so you'll have to learn the right taping technique before using it for treatments.
Athletes and sports enthusiasts use it to treat injuries and relieve pain but it is also known to help prevent injuries caused by overuse.
How Does It Work?
In a word – decompression. Unlike conventional sports tapes that are used to compress the injured area to restrict or immobilise range of motion, Kinesiology taping aims to lift the skin away from the muscle.
When applying kinesiology tape over a stretched muscle, this lifting helps to improve blood flow and oxygen levels to the muscle, increasing muscle strength.
Additionally, the lifting of the skin may create more space for lymph drainage to get rid of toxins, excess fluids and reduce fatigue.
- Latex-free and zinc-free
- Water-resistant – Won’t fall off in the shower or during activity
- Comfortable – You will hardly notice it’s on
- Long-lasting – Wear for up to 5 days and carry on with your daily activity
- Easy to apply – Simple to follow instructions and video guides available online
- Great for all sports and activities
Kinesiology tape can also be used to support the muscles and joints. Use as a standard sports tape to apply compression and help recovery.
What Can I Use It For?
Kinesiology is great for all sports and activities and safe to use for everyone. Whatever your injury, ache or pain, Kinesiology taping may help to get you back to action.
It's great for…
- Back pain
- Knee injuries
- Hamstring strain
- Rotator cuff injury
- Tennis/Golfers Elbow
- Shin splints
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Ankle sprain
- Swelling
…and lots more
Which Kinesiology Tape Should I Buy?
With so much choice it can be difficult to decide which one will give you the best results.
Our aim is to source the best products on the market, so we’ve put together a selection of the best quality Kinesiology tapes available.
Our range features many colours and different widths and lengths so you can find the most suitable tape for you.
Each tape has been rigorously tested by many sports healthcare professionals we supply to ensure the tape is up to the job.
Our customers include some of the biggest sports teams, including national teams, where the Kinesiology tape is used on elite athletes and professional sports players, so it has to be reliable to withstand some serious action.
There are cheaper Kinesiology Tapes available, however, the level of adhesive and stretch on many of these are poor.
You might save a bit at first but you’ll end up spending more in the long run when it falls off sooner than it should. You’ll spend more time applying it more frequently.
All of the Kinesiology tapes we stock are supplied in complete rolls. We have tried pre-cut tapes before however the quality and value were not up to scratch.
Instead, we’ve opted for the standard rolls, giving you a better quality tape at a much better price.
Everyone is a different shape and size, our rolls offer you complete control of customising the tape to your specific requirements. Our multi-purpose Kinesiology tapes can be used for all types of common injuries.
They are easy to cut to the required size and apply. If you have a preferred choice of Kinesiology tape please let us know and we will do our best to source it for you.
Our Full Range of Kinesiology Tapes
Tiger Kinesiology Tape
Featuring the best materials available Tiger K Tape is right up there with the more expensive tapes.
In comparison with other leading brands, the quality, stretchiness, stickiness and durability of Tiger K Tape are just as good… if not better.
Used by many professional athletes and sports teams and has been previously used during the olympic games. Available in various colours including Blue, Pink, Purple, Orange, Black, Black Logo, White, Navy Blue, Light Brown, Dark Brown and Beige.
It is also now available in a wider version, 10cm, which is suitable for larger areas.
RockTape - Kinesiology tape
One of the leading brands in Kinesiology tape and the preferred choice for many. RockTape is a great tape with excellent adhesion and will last several days.
A little more expensive but delivers good results. We particularly like their great range of colours and designs.
Tiger Kinesiology Tape - Clinic Roll
If you use Kinesiology tape frequently you will save loads with this handy 32m long roll.
Exactly the same as the standard 5m tape, but on a massive 32m roll that will provide you with lots of treatments.
Perfect for practitioners, we stock Tiger K Tape and RockTape in clinic rolls.
RockTape Kinesio Tape - 10cm x 5m
Great for covering large areas and when more specific shapes are needed.
The guys at RockTape have repeated their high-quality tape on a wider 10cm roll. Ideal for treating knees, thighs, shoulders, back or chest.
RockTape H2O - Waterproof Kinesio Tape
With twice as much glue this extra sticky tape is specifically for athletes who participate in water sports.
H2O is the only kinesiology tape on the market that is designed to withstand the extreme conditions encountered during competitive surfing, water polo, wakeboarding, triathlon and open-water swimming.
Also great for taping really sweaty areas such as feet.
Applying Kinesiology Tape:
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Before application, ensure the skin is clean, dry, and free from oils or lotions. Shave any excessive hair if needed.
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Measure the required length of k tape, considering the specific area you are taping. Cut the tape with rounded edges to prevent premature peeling.
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Round the tape's corners to avoid snagging on clothing or peeling. Create anchor points by folding the ends of the tape to make removal easier.
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Stretch the middle section of the tape, applying the desired tension based on the therapeutic goal. Different amounts of stretch offer various levels of support.
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Apply the anchor points with no stretch to ensure the tape adheres well to the skin. The ends should provide a secure base for the stretched middle section.
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Rub the entire length of the k tape with your hands to activate the adhesive. This enhances adherence and helps the tape conform to the body's contours.
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Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles by gently rubbing the tape from the centre towards the edges.
Cautions:
Be cautious when taping around joints. Avoid excessive stretching to prevent restricting natural movement.
Avoid applying the k tape to open wounds as this can cause infection if the wound has not fully healed.
Removing Kinesiology Tape:
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Remove the k tape after wearing it for the recommended time, (three to five days). Prolonged use may lead to skin irritation.
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Apply baby oil/olive oil or warm water to the edges of the tape. This helps break down the adhesive, making removal more comfortable.
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Start peeling the tape slowly, pulling it back over itself at a 180-degree angle. Pulling towards the skin may cause discomfort.
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Support the skin with your free hand as you peel to minimise discomfort and reduce the risk of skin irritation.
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If any adhesive residue remains, gently rub it with oil or warm water. Avoid aggressive scrubbing to prevent skin irritation.
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Once the tape is removed, clean and dry the skin thoroughly. Allow the skin to breathe before applying a new tape if necessary.
Cautions:
Keep an eye on skin sensitivity. If irritation persists, stop use immediately and consult with a healthcare professional.
Remember, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a trained physical therapist for personalised guidance on kinesiology tape application and removal.
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