What is that weird athletic tape?

Here's why Olympic athletes wear it on their face and body

Olympic athletes use kinesiology tape for a variety of reasons that are related to both the physical and psychological aspects of their performance. Here’s why it’s popular among them:

Support and Stability

Kinesiology tape is believed to provide support to muscles and joints without restricting the range of motion. This support can be crucial for athletes who need to perform at their peak without feeling constrained.

Injury Management

Athletes use the tape to manage symptoms of existing injuries. The tape is thought to help in reducing pain and facilitating the healing process, allowing athletes to continue training and competing.

Enhanced Performance: Some athletes believe that kinesiology tape helps them perform better by supporting their muscles and joints. Although the scientific evidence on performance enhancement is mixed, the psychological confidence it provides can be valuable.

Prevention of Injuries

By providing support to muscles and joints, the tape is also used in an attempt to prevent potential injuries during high-stress activities that are common in Olympic competitions.

Improved Circulation and Reduced Swelling

The tape is applied in specific patterns that are believed to help with blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, potentially reducing swelling and facilitating quicker recovery from intense physical activity.

Psychological Confidence

Beyond the physical benefits, wearing kinesiology tape can give athletes a psychological boost by making them feel more secure about their body's ability to withstand the rigors of competition. This confidence can be a critical factor in their performance.

Visibility and Awareness

The use of kinesiology tape by high-profile athletes has also increased awareness of its potential benefits. Seeing other athletes use the tape successfully may encourage its adoption among peers.

While the benefits of kinesiology tape are supported by anecdotal evidence from athletes and some healthcare professionals, it's important to note that research findings on its efficacy are mixed. Some studies suggest benefits in terms of pain relief and functional improvement, while others find little to no effect. Despite this, the psychological comfort and the feeling of support it provides can be significant for an athlete competing at the highest levels, such as the Olympics.