How to Apply Kinesiology Tape Without Touching the Adhesive

K Tape Adhesive PatternOne of the things that makes kinesiology tape unique is its acrylic adhesive. As soon as you remove the paper backing and look at the sticky side of the tape, you'll know you've got something special. Instead of covering the entire surface of the tape, the adhesive is applied in a wave-like pattern that allows air and moisture to easily flow through. It is thicker and softer and much easier on the skin than the adhesive on regular athletic or medical tape. While these adhesive features are critical to the wonderful benefits of kinesiology tape, they do make the tape significantly less sticky than most other types of tape. Kinesiology tape is designed to be applied once and worn for several days. Once it has been removed, it isn't sticky enough to be reapplied. Even touching the adhesive side of the tape during application can make it less sticky as skin oils coat the surface of the adhesive. This is why it is recommended to not touch the adhesive while applying kinesiology tape. In principle, this sounds simple, but in practice, it can be a bit of a challenge. Kinesiology tape is very thin and flexible, making it a bit difficult to hold on to once the backing has been removed. Applying it on specific locations in the recommended patterns can be challenging when also attempting to touch only the fabric side of the tape. Take heart though - read the rest of this post and follow the 2 simple techniques we present and you will become an expert at how to apply kinesiology tape without touching the adhesive.

Taping Method #1 - Anchor End Application

The most common way to apply kinesiology tape is to begin at one end and continue laying down the tape until the entire strip has been applied. You may have seen videos suggesting you use your finger to peel the end of the tape off the backing and work from there, but this is impossible to do without touching the sticky side. Here is a foolproof way to do your anchor end application and never contact the adhesive with your fingers.

Step 1 - Tear the Backing Step 1: Fold the tape to create a crease in the backing paper approximately 2 inches from the end. Then, carefully tear the paper all the way across the fold until the backing has been separated into 2 pieces.
Step 2 - Remove Anchor End Backing Step 2: Turn the fabric sides of the tape toward each other so the torn ends of the backing are facing up. Gently stretch the tape until the backing paper begins to pull away, then completely remove the small piece of backing from the short (anchor) end.
Step 3 - Apply Anchor End Step 3: Place the short (anchor) end of the tape over the application area and smooth onto the skin with one hand while the other hand holds the rest of the tape.
Step 4 - Apply Other End Step 4: Holding that end against the skin, stretch the tape again to release the other torn end of the backing paper. When it separates from the tape, grasp the paper with one hand and begin smoothing the tape onto the skin with the other hand.
Step 5 - Complete Application Step 5: Continue peeling the paper away and applying the tape until the entire strip is down. Rub the tape briskly from the center toward the ends to activate the adhesive.

Taping Method #2 - Center Stretch Application

A center stretch application is used directly over pain points or hot spots. To increase the lifting action of the tape, the center portion is stretched before being applied to the skin, then the 2 anchor ends are applied with no stretch. This application is usually done with shorter strips of tape, approximately 6" - 8" long. This might sound complicated, but following the simple steps below will have you applying this tape as easily as peeling a banana!

Fold Tape in Half Step 1: Fold the tape in half with the fabric sides facing in. Press along the fold to create a crease in the backing paper, then carefully tear the paper all the way across the fold until the backing has been completely separated.
Separate the backing Step 2: Turn the fabric sides of the tape toward each other so the torn ends of the backing are facing up. With your fingers on the fabric side and your thumbs on the paper side, gently stretch the tape until the backing paper pops up on both sides.
Peel Backing Away from Center Step 3: Grasp the torn ends of the paper and peel them back to expose the center of the tape. When approximately 2" is left at each end, pull gently to lightly stretch the tape.
Apply Center of Tape Step 4: Maintaining the stretch, apply the exposed part of the tape directly over the most painful area. To prevent skin irritation, be sure to apply the final 2" at each end with zero stretch. Rub the tape briskly from the center toward the ends to activate the adhesive.

 Final Notes

For the longest lasting applications, in addition to applying the tape without touching the adhesive, it is important to prepare the skin properly. Theratape, the Kinesiology Tape Experts have covered that and more in Tips for Applying and Removing Kinesiology Tape. Feel free to print it and keep it on hand so you too will become a "kinesiology taping expert!"

How to Apply Kinesiology Tape Without Touching the Adhesive

There are 147 products.

  • -$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
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RockTape Assassins Knee Sleeves

$45.00 $70.00

One of the most important components of lifting is maintaining knee stability. The heavier the lift, the more strain the knees and quadriceps undergo. If your knees hurt when you lift or you have trouble stabilizing them, RockTape\'s Assassins could become your new best workout buddy.

Assassins are designed to provide compression, warmth and lateral stability when performing functional movements such as dead lifts, pistols and squats. Unlike other supports, they are extra tall and designed to compress the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) at its insertion point above the patella (kneecap) to help ensure proper stability and tracking. Assassins also provide compression and warmth to promote blood flow to the knees and surround musculature.

Assassins are sold in pairs and come in 2 thicknesses (5mm and 7mm), 5 sizes (XS - XL)

  • SBR Neoprene front protection and 4-way stretch lycra side panels
  • Double Mauser Stitching - the latest in stitching technology, which greatly enhances durability
Availability: Sold Out

KT Tape Recovery Patches for Swelling & Inflammation

$9.99

DISCONTINUED BY KT TAPE

The KT Tape Recovery+ Patch is a groundbreaking product for the treatment of swelling, inflammation and bruising. The unique one-piece design makes it possible to apply an effective edema application in less than a minute. Simply remove the backing from the center part of the application and apply over the affected area. Then remove the backing strip from the outer edge and smooth the tape down. Compare this to the tedious process of cutting and applying hand-cut fan strips and you\'ll understand why this is a game changer!



    • Can be used on any part of the body

    • Effective for acute or chronic conditions

    • No measuring or cutting required

    • Simple 2-step process for fast and easy application

    • No training necessary to apply effectively

    • Provides 24/7 therapy up to 3 days

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Pro-X Patches

$15.99 $19.99

KT TAPE PRO X Patches are small 4" x 4" kinesiology tape X-strips designed to provide spot-relief for painful muscles, tendons and joints. Developed for active consumers who doesn\'t want to be slowed down by pain or complex taping applications, KT TAPE PRO X will stay in place through multiple demanding workouts for 3-5 days.

Each box comes with 15 precut X-patches in a hard plastic carrying case that will keep them in good shape no matter where you go. A Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions on the most common injuries is included with every purchase.



    • X marks the spot - apply directly over painful areas anywhere on the body

    • Bi-directional stretch for increased feedback

    • Made from synthetic microfiber for enhanced comfort and durability

    • Apply alone for pain relief or combine with KT Tape strips for additional support

    • Protective travel case keeps strips like new until used

Availability: Sold Out

5-Pack Kindmax Precut Calf & Achilles Support

$34.95

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for calf or achilles tendon pain. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:



  • Achilles tendinitis

  • Strained or fatigued calf muscles

  • Calf cramps or spasms

  • Ruptured or torn plantaris

  • Recovery after surgery


* Contains 5 packages, each with 1 single-use application with a wear time of 3-5 days.

Availability: Sold Out

Genesis Excel Performance Tape Sample Pack

$8.99

Professional Bowlers Association Registered Product



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 like insert tape, Excel Performance Tape is applied directly to the thumb and fingers for a more customized application. 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.

If you\'re not sure which Excel product will be best for you, this sample pack is a great item to start with. It contains 2 strips each of Excel 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 so you can test them all to determine which gives you the perfect fit.

Availability: Sold Out

KT Tape Cotton Grip Tape For Abrasion Control

$13.99

KT Tape Original Cotton Grip Tape for abrasion control is KT Tape\'s solution for the sores and blisters that come with using the *Hookgrip lifting technique. Each roll has been precut into 40 strips, each of which is 5 inches long and 2 inches wide (12.7 cm X 5 cm). This unique size is specially designed to wrap around fingers and thumbs to add a layer of protection where you need it most, and the strong adhesive will make sure that your tape stays on through blood, sweat, and tears!



    • Strong adhesive designed to withstand intense workouts

    • Protects thumbs from blistering and abrasion

    • Enhances grip during heavy barbell, kettlebell, crossfit, and Olympic lifting

    • Approved for competetive lifting (unless fingertips are covered)

    • Highest available strip count (40 Strips per roll).

    • 2" (5cm) width works for all thumbs

    • Strips are precut and tear off to save you time and effort

    • Latex-Free 

Availability: Last items in stock

CureTape Clean Skin Pretaping Spray

$20.00

CureTape Pre-Taping Spray is used to prepare the skin for the application of kinesiology tape, athletic tape or medical tape. It thoroughly cleans the skin, removing oils, lotions, sweat and residue that could prevent tape from sticking properly. CureTape\'s powerful, clinically tested, and skin friendly formula uses the power of denatured alcohol to disinfect, prepare, and clean at the same time.



  • Drastically improves tape adhesion

  • Disinfects skin to prevent infection

  • Non-aerosol pump spray top

  • Safe for all ages and skin types

  • Cleaning power of alcohol with minimized odor


Directions for Use::
Hold bottle 3-4 inches from skin and spray entire area to be cleaned. Gently wipe the area with a clean paper or cloth towel. Apply tape when skin is dry.


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.

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Original Cotton Uncut Rolls

$10.97 $12.99

KT Tape original cotton products are made with a light adhesive suitable for individuals participating in light exercise or exercise therapy. Those participating in heavy exercise should consider KT Tape Pro, which has a stronger adhesive.



    • 2" x 16\' (5cm x 5m) roll - enough for 8-12 applications

    • ultra-soft cotton for added comfort

    • light-weight adhesive lasts up to 3 days

    • dispenser box for easy access

    • includes Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions for common injuries

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KT Tape Gentle - 20 Precut Strips - Beige

$13.99 $14.99

KT Tape Gentle is designed for anyone with sensitive skin. Its lighter latex-free adhesive makes it less irritating to skin and easier to remove. It was created for use during light exercise or for non-exercisers wearing kinesiology tape for therapeutic purposes. It provides targeted pain relief and will stay in place for 1-3 days.

Precut strips are easy-to-apply and require no cutting. If you\'re new to taping, precut strips are a great way to start.

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

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Pro Jumbo Rolls - 150 Precut Strips

$76.47 $89.99

If you tape a lot, KT Tape jumbo rolls are the best kinesiology taping value you\'ll find. While bulk rolls from most other brands are 105\' (32m) long, KT Tape jumbo rolls are 125\' (38m) long. That\'s an extra 20 feet, or approximately 15-20 additional applications! Combine that with the fact that KT Tape bulk rolls are also priced lower than the competition and you\'ll see why they\'re the choice of so many health professionals.

KT Tape Pro is made from 100% synthetic microfibers for better performance in wet conditions.



    • Synthetic microfiber fabric is more durable than cotton

    • UltraLite elastic core for enhanced support

    • Secondskin Adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • 150 easy-to-apply 10-inch strips per roll

    • Dispenser box for easy access

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Cotton Jumbo Uncut Rolls

$64.99 $65.00

If you tape a lot, KT Tape jumbo rolls are the best kinesiology taping value you\'ll find. While bulk rolls from most other brands are 105\' (32m) long, KT Tape jumbo rolls are 125\' (38m) long. That\'s an extra 20 feet, or approximately 15-20 additional applications! Combine that with the fact that KT Tape bulk rolls are also priced lower than the competition and you\'ll see why they\'re the choice of so many health professionals.

KT Tape Classic is made from 100% cotton fibers for optimal comfort and breathability.



    • Synthetic microfiber fabric is more durable than cotton

    • UltraLite elastic core for enhanced support

    • SecondSkin Adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • Dispenser box for easy access

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

KT Tape Cotton Jumbo Rolls - 150 Precut Strips

$64.99 $69.99

If you tape a lot, KT Tape jumbo rolls are the best kinesiology taping value you\'ll find. While bulk rolls from most other brands are 105\' (32m) long, KT Tape jumbo rolls are 125\' (38m) long. That\'s an extra 20 feet, or approximately 15-20 additional applications! Combine that with the fact that KT Tape bulk rolls are also priced lower than the competition and you\'ll see why they\'re the choice of so many health professionals.

KT Tape original cotton products are made with a light adhesive suitable for individuals participating in light exercise or exercise therapy. Those participating in heavy exercise should consider KT Tape Pro, which has a stronger adhesive.



    • 150 easy-to-apply 10-inch strips per roll

    • dispenser box for easy access

    • ultra-soft cotton for added comfort

    • light-weight adhesive lasts up to 3 days

Availability: Sold Out
  • -$0.00

KT Tape Original Cotton - 20 Precut Strips

$11.97 $12.99

KT Tape Original Cotton is designed for use during light exercise or for non-exercisers wearing kinesiology tape for therapeutic purposes. It\'s lighter adhesive is easier on the skin and contains no latex. It provides targeted pain relief and will stay in place for up to 3 days, through daily showers, humidity, cold, even in the pool.

Precut strips are easy-to-apply and require no cutting. If you\'re new to taping, precut strips are a great way to start.

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
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KT Tape Pro Uncut Single Roll

$16.99 $19.99

For those who prefer to cut their own kinesiology tape applications, KT Tape Pro is now available in uncut rolls. Each 16\' (5m)standard  roll can make 8-12 typical applications.With its hard plastic carrying case, it\'s the perfect item to keep in a gym bag or first aid kit.

KT TAPE PRO is the world\'s only 100% synthetic kinesiology tape, and was recently re-engineered with a stronger adhesive, to allow it to work in wet conditions and/or intense exercise.



    • Synthetic microfiber fabric for durability and comfort

    • UltraLite elastic core for enhanced support

    • Latex-free for sensitive skin

    • SecondSkin Adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • Comes with protective travel case, sticker and quick start guide

  • -$0.00

KT Tape Pro Wide - 10 Precut Strips - Jet Black

$19.99 $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. Wide is perfect for larger application areas, like the lower back, thighs, shoulders, or calves.



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