There are often 2 types of sports tape.
Supportive Taping
This tape is most often found in medical and change rooms. This tape is strong, rigid, and has minimal elastic properties. It’s commonly used to tape the ankles, knees and shoulders.
Elastoplast tape, the main supplier to Australia, is used by major sporting clubs that spend thousands of dollars annually maintaining their stock.
Male and female players of Australian Rules football, Rugby and Soccer, Basketball, Netball, and Rugby will likely use sports tape. They usually apply it before the game, and then take it off afterward.
Kinesiology Taping
There are many colours available for Kinesiology tape. Kinesiology tape has a different appearance and feel than supportive tape. It is a thin, stretchy and elastic cotton strip with one-sided adhesive.
Kinesiology tape helps your lymphatic drainage and vein systems drain swollen and bruised tissue faster. Kinesiology tape can also be used to align areas in the body during, after and before exercise.
Sports Tape – Some Things to Remember
Sports tape is not a permanent solution or guarantee against injury.
Sports tape is a great way to restore confidence in athletes’ ability to perform at their best. Taping is primarily used to support an injured area and prevent further injury.
A sore ankle can cause an athlete to be more inclined to favour the other leg or subconsciously limit their performance.
Some elite sporting clubs require that all players have their ankles taped as a preventive measure. Others will use tape to treat existing sore spots.
Taping is a common preventative measure for any club. However, it is possible that club osteopaths or other health professionals will recommend tapping. It may also be a good idea to see a doctor to determine if there are any underlying problems.