Ten Tips for Getting Kinesiology Tape to Stick

Kinesiology tape has many benefits - it helps alleviate pain, reduces inflammation and swelling, improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, and provides support without limiting range of motion.   Because it continues to provide therapeutic benefits the entire time it is applied, maximizing the time it is worn will help you get the most from every application. Following these 10 tips should help ensure your kinesiology tape application stays on for 3-5 days, even while showering, swimming, or exercising:

1. Clean the skin prior to application It is essential that skin be free of lotions and even natural oils before the tape is applied. Cleaning the skin with rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer or a pre-taping spray such as PerformPrep or Rock Sauce immediately before applying the tape is critical.

2. Avoid touching the adhesive before application Because the adhesive is designed for a single use, touching it prior to application will cause the tape to be less sticky. A good technique is to tear the adhesive a couple of inches from the end of the strip, then remove the backing from this short end and apply it first. Gradually remove the backing from the rest of the tape, smoothing it down with your other hand.

3. Make sure all ends are applied directly to skin Kinesiology tape sticks well to skin, but not so well to itself. If strips cross over each other, be sure that every strip ends on skin.

Rub Tape to Activate the Adhesive

4. Activate the adhesive Kinesiology tape is made with an acrylic adhesive that is heat-activated. The easiest way to activate the adhesive is to rub the tape lightly and briskly from the center toward the ends of each strip. This can be done with the bare hands or the backing paper from the tape. Do not rub from the ends toward the center – if you catch an edge and it lifts from the skin, it will not re-adhere.

5. Apply the ends of the tape with no stretch The final 2-3″ of every strip should be applied with no stretch. Stretching the ends of the tape make  it easier for the ends to lift away from the skin, and is also the most common cause of rashes and skin irritation.

6. Round the corners before applying tape Rounding the corners of every strip before applying the tape is very helpful in preventing the edges from lifting prematurely. The quickest way to do this is to fold the tape in half, then cut two corners at once.

7. Give the tape some time to stick Allow at least an hour after applying kinesiology tape before engaging in any activity (exercise, swimming or showering) that will generate moisture under the tape.

8. Don’t apply the tape to moist skin If kinesiology tape is applied too soon after exercising, swimming or showering, the moisture can prevent the adhesive from sticking. Kinesiology tape can withstand heavy perspiration after the adhesive has had time to set and generally lasts about 3-5 days when applied properly.

performprep

9. Use an adhesive spray on areas that are prone to friction Kinesiology tape is seldom wrapped completely around a joint or muscle, which means the ends of the tape are not protected from contact with pads, clothing or bodily contact. In these situations, it is recommended to use an additional adhesive spray on the ends of the tape to prevent them from being lifted. Commercial products include PerformStik by PerformTex or Cramer Tuff Skin. For a quick fix, try spritzing some hair spray under the edges of the tape before applying. 

10. Be mindful of excessive body hair While small amounts of hair should not interfere with the tape, excessive amounts will prevent the tape from adhering directly to the skin. Shaving or clipping the hair close to the skin (1/8”) is recommended for such areas.

Stay up to date with Theratape.com! Connect with us on social media via PinterestFacebook, and Twitter.

Ten Tips for Getting Kinesiology Tape to Stick

There are 147 products.

Genesis Hyper Grip Circle Pads - 80 Count

$16.50

Genesis New Hyper Grip Tape Pad


It\'s not Hype! Are you ready to get a Grip on your game? Available now!

First we caused a K-Motion, and now we\'re creating the Hype! Where others are quick to follow, we continue to lead with true innovation! This pack contains 80 large pads.

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

KT Tape Pro - 20 Precut Strips

$16.99 $22.99

Need support that will endure your toughest workout? KT TAPE PRO is just what the trainer ordered. It will keep you pain free and supported exactly where you need it. KT TAPE PRO will stay in place through multiple demanding workouts for up to seven days. KT TAPE PRO will stick with you in the harshest conditions including daily showers, humidity, cold, even in the pool.

  • 100% synthetic microfiber tape with reflective pattern
  • ultra-strong SecondSkin adhesive lasts up to 7 days
  • hard plastic carrying case with twist on lid
  • convenient, precut "I" strips - no scissors needed
  • latex and zinc-free
  • 10 brilliant colors to mix and match

Each roll contains 20 precut 10" strips of synthetic kinesiology tape and includes a Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions for common injuries.

Availability: Product available with different options

PerformLift Adhesive and Tape Remover

$18.99

PerformLift Tape and Adhesive Remover takes the \'ouch\' out of removing your tape. The gentle formula and environmentally-friendly ingredients help maintain skin\'s natural pH balance, reducing drying and irritation. Highly recommended for tape removal on sensitive or fragile skin.


Directions for Use:
Holding can 3-4" from skin, spray taped area until saturated. Rub PerformLift into tape and wait 1-2 minutes, then gently remove tape from skin and wipe with a paper towel. Any residual adhesive can be easily removed with a small additional amount of PerformLift.


Warning:
Use only as directed. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, open wounds, abrasions and mucous membranes. If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label. Keep out of reach of children. If rash or irritation develops, discontinue use and consult a physician.


For optimum taping results, use the entire PerformTex Taping System:
PerformPrep Skin Cleaner
PerformStik Tape Adherent
PerformLift Adhesive Remover

Availability: Sold Out

Kinesio Equine Tape

$15.99

Kinesio Equine is the first kinesiology tape designed for the unique needs of horses. It starts with Kinesio\'s advanced Kinesio Tex Gold FP technology, and is enhanced with:



  • a stronger, specially-formulated adhesive that sticks to hair
  • a safe, naturally-formulated additive to discourage ingestion
  • a solid, non-patterned weave/adhesive to prevent overstimulation

Use Kinesio Equine to:



  • reduce swelling and inflammation
  • relieve joint or muscle pain
  • provide support to injured areas
  • relieve digestive discomfort
  • calm anxiety
Availability: Sold Out

PerformStik Tape Adherent

$18.99

PerformStik is the only tape adherent designed specifically for use with kinesiology tape. Unlike other spray adherents designed for athletic or rigid tape, PerformStik creates an elastic or “moving” tacky surface on the skin to greatly improve tape adherence without affecting the properties and effects of kinesiology tape. Highly recommended for use in athletics, contact sports, activities causing heavy perspiration, pool use and high-humidity locations. NOT recommended for pediatric or geriatric populations.



  • Hypoallergenic formula made from environmentally-safe ingredients

  • Quick drying formula

  • Adjustable spray nozzle for precise application

  • Maximizes tape adhesion under extreme conditions


Directions for Use:
Holding can 3-4" from skin, spray a light layer over the area to be taped. It is usally not necessary to spray the entire area, but just the anchor points where each strip ends. Wait a few seconds until the sprayed area feels tacky, then apply tape.


Warning:
Use only as directed. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, open wounds, abrasions and mucous membranes. If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label. Keep out of reach of children. If rash or irritation develops, discontinue use and consult a physician.


For optimum taping results, use the entire PerformTex Taping System:
PerformPrep Skin Cleaner
PerformStik Tape Adherent
PerformLift Adhesive Remover

Availability: Sold Out

CureTape Medical Taping Concept Handbook With DVD

$79.99

The MTC Handbook by sports and pediatric physiotherapist practitioner and lecturer Harry Pijnappel is a comprehensive manual that covers the theory and practical applications of the Muscular Taping Concept style of taping. MTC is derived from the original Asian methods of kinesiology taping, but has its own unique applications due to the methods that have been refined as medical research and practical knowledge in kinesiology taping methods has grown.

MTC focuses on stimulating regeneration and self-healing in muscles, joints, organs, and the neurological/circulatory systems without restricting freedom of movement in any way. This book begins with the overview of the principles of the Medical Taping Concept including how kinesiology taping works specifically to combat pain, itching, and swelling and continues to detail how it provides support to muscles and joints. There is a general section detailing common tape cuts and applications with their uses, but the majority of the book is dedicated to the in-depth illustrations and step-by-step instructions for specific applications from TMJ in the jaw to Hammer Toe in the foot. Also included is a DVD that provides even more instruction for applications to add to what is available in the book.

*This book is written to be easy to understand, but does include medical terminology that may be difficult for introductory users.

Availability: Sold Out

Vetkin Medical Taping Concept Kinesiology Taping For Horses

$99.99

The MTC Kinesiology Taping For Horses by Academy of Equine Therapy equine physiotherapist Renate Ettl is an comprehensive manual that covers the theory and practical applications of the Muscular Taping Concept style of taping. This book has clear photographic illustrations and all of the step-by-step instructions you\'ll need for equine kinesiology taping. It starts with a beginner\'s guide to kinesiology taping including skin prep, tape cuts, and application techniques. It progresses into basic applications, injury appraisal, and clinical equine taping applications. Each section includes detailed charts, helpful tips, and warnings regarding common mistakes. MTC Kinesiology Taping For Horses is nearly 200 pages of densely packed information prepared to to teach you from scratch or hone your existing knowledge. 


MTC focuses on stimulating regeneration and self-healing in muscles, joints, organs, and the neurological/circulatory systems without restricting freedom of movement in any way. The Medical Taping Concept works specifically to combat pain, itching, and swelling and provides support to muscles and joints while allowing full range of movement and minimizing irritation. There is a general section detailing common tape cuts and applications with their uses, but the majority of this book is dedicated to the in-depth illustrations and step-by-step instructions for specific therapeutic and preventative applications.

  • -$0.00

GO Tape - 20 Precut Strips - Expired Rolls

$9.99 $14.99

Each 16 foot (5m) roll contains 20 tear-off strips. Each strip is 10" long unstretched, which is an ideal length for many kinesiology taping applications. Most common injury applications require only two strips of tape, making Go Tape Precut Strips both economical and convenient.

GO Tape is made from a high thread-count fabric with an advanced elastic core that increases the strength, durability and elasticity of the tape. The patented All-Performance™ acrylic adhesive produces wear-times of 5-7 days, equivalent to other "strong adhesive" k-tapes that cost much more.



    • each 5 meter (16\') roll contains 20 precut 10" strips - ready to tear off and apply

    • long-lasting adhesive stays on 5-7 days

    • shower, swim or sweat as much as you want - GO Tape keeps on going

    • high tensile elastic core for superior support without restricting movement

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

GO Tape 16' (5m) Uncut Rolls - Expired Rolls

$9.99 $14.99

GO Tape is designed to be the world\'s best cotton kinesiology tape. It is made from a high thread-count fabric with an advanced elastic core that increases the strength, durability and elasticity of the tape. The patented All-Performance™ acrylic adhesive produces wear-times of 5-7 days, equivalent to other "strong adhesive" k-tapes that cost much more.



    • long-lasting adhesive stays on 5-7 days

    • shower, swim or sweat as much as you want - GO Tape keeps on going

    • high tensile elastic core for superior support without restricting movement

    • available in 8 rich colors

    • one 5 meter (16 foot) roll can be used for 8-10 typical applications

Availability: Sold Out

Rocktape RockFloss Mobility Band - Red

$65.00

RockFloss is a new, reusable simple, latex elastic band that can help you move better and with less pain. It comes in a roll packaged in a stiff cardboard box that fits easily in your gym bag or backpack. It\'s easy, convenient and reusable, and available in 2″ or 4″ widths. RockFloss uses the science of compression and fascial shearing to help \'unstick\' muscles and joints so they move better and with less pain. 

Availability: Product available with different options
  • -$0.00

KT Tape Recovery+ Ice/Heat Massage Ball

$40.99 $44.99

KT Tape\'s KT Recovery+ Ice/Heat Massage Ball is like having your own personal, portable trauma kit. Whether you prefer heat therapy, cold therapy or need to alternate, Ice/Heat has you covered.

The versatile, interchangeable balls are a key component in the system allowing you to choose to massage as is, with ice, or with heat.

Availability: Product available with different options
  • -$0.00

Genesis K-Motion Precut Strips

$17.50 $22.00

K-Motion with Copper Infuzion™ is the only kinesiology tape with copper infused into the fabric for enhanced comfort and therapeutic benefits. Copper bracelets have been worn for centuries to relieve joint pain. Now with K-Motion kinesiology tape strips, you can have the benefits of copper anywhere you need it! Copper also has strong anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, which reduces skin irritation and helps K-Motion tape remain odor-free, even when worn for several days. Applied correctly, it provides pain relief, increased support and added stability for injured or weakened muscles, delays fatigue and can ease joint soreness. All without sacrificing your comfort or freedom of movement.



  • 20 ready-to-apply precut I-strips in a convenient lay flat package

  • Hybrid cotton/synthetic fabric stands up to any environment without breaking down

  • Proprietary, low-residue adhesive provides maximum adhesion with no mess

  • Provides up to 5 days of continuous support and drug free pain relief

Availability: Sold Out

KT Tape Recovery+ Ice/Heat Therapy System

$49.99

KT Tape\'s KT Recovery+ Ice/Heat Compression Therapy System is like having your own personal, portable trauma kit. Whether you prefer heat therapy, cold therapy or need to alternate, Ice/Heat has you covered. It contains:



    • 1 5" x 9" reusable heat pack

    • 1 5" x 9" reusable ice pack

    • 1 instant ice pack for emergencies

    • 1 adjustable wrap that fits any body part

    • 1 nylon carry bag



The versatile, adjustable wrap is a key component in the system. It keeps the ice/heat where you need it, so you can move freely during ice or heat therapy. The velcro fasteners allow you to apply as little or as much compression as you want, while the insulated pocket maintains optimal temperatures longer, allowing for more effective treatment.

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

RockTape Talons Workout Gloves

$35.00 $45.00

Talons are the ultimate high-tech workout glove. They will protect your hands from blisters and tears, even during the most brutal workouts, but that\'s just where the benefits begin. Need to make a call during your workout? Talons are touch-screen friendly. Sweat running into your eyes? A microfiber patch on the thumb will take care of that. Need to chalk up? No worries, the synthetic palm is chalk-friendly, even when it\'s caked onto barbells and rigs. Struggling to make your muscle ups? Silicone beading on the palm will make sure you don\'t slip.



  • touch screen friendly

  • seamless palm construction

  • hook grip thumb protection

  • silicone beads on the palm for extra grip

  • microfiber sweat wipe patch

  • venter side walls on fingers

  • para-cord pull strap

  • work great with chalk

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

RockWrist - Wrist Wraps by RockTape

$22.50 $24.99

Are your WOD\'s getting the better of your wrists? Need a little extra wrist support for that last muscle up? RockWrists were designed to provide the perfect combination of elasticity and support for optimal comfort and performance. Designed by Jason Khalipa, RockWrists are competition grade wrist supports, made from tough polyester fabric with strings that won\'t break and elastic that won\'t turn brittle, no matter how sweat-soaked they become. The hook and loop fasteners allow you to cinch them to the perfect tension level for your workout.

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

Genesis Excel Performance Tape - Fitting & Protection Tape for Bowlers

$12.99 $14.99

Excel Performance Tape is a multi-use kinesiology tape developed to assist bowlers with ball fitting, release speed and skin protection. Rather than being applied inside the holes of the bowling ball, Excel Performance Tape is applied directly to the thumb and fingers. The highly elastic synthetic fabric stretches and moves with your skin and the patented adhesive leaves no sticky residue. The 2.75" x 1" (7cm x .5cm) size is perfect for wrapping around fingers and thumbs, but is also great for toes, heels and other small areas of the body that need some extra protection.

Excel Performance Tapes provide you with superior protection against blisters, cuts and abrasions, and is available in five distinct styles. Ranging in texture, thickness and elasticity, these tapes give you a multitude of options to fine tune release speed, plus the ability to layer pieces for the perfect fit with less waste, and the power of kinesiology to increase blood flow and control swelling.

Availability: Product available with different options