[Influence of bandages on the strength of impact of punches in boxing]

Can J Appl Sport Sci. 1984 Dec;9(4):181-7.
[Article in French]

Abstract

In boxing, a punch can be directed to the head or the torso of the opponent; however, because of the gravity of the ensuing injuries, the limit of tolerance of the head and face to repeated impacts (Gurjian, 1955, 1962; Patrick, 1955; Hodgson and Nakamura, 1968) is particularly important to keep in mind. The objective of this research was to compare the impact forces which could be attained barehand versus those obtained with different types of bandages made up of gauze and diachylon. For the purpose of this study, 22 boxers were selected. The impact force was measured with a Kistler force plate, covered with a synthetic mattress. A system of photoelectric cells was used to measure the velocity of the punch. Each boxer had to impact the target with 10 punches while his hand was covered with one of four types of bandages as well as barehand. This study has shown that the bandaged hand increases significantly the impact force of the punch. The force increases in relation to the thickness of the bandage. The use of additional pieces of diachylon has a greater influence than gauzes. Therefore, it can be concluded that the bandaging increases the rigidity of the hand and facilitates the transfer of the force in comparison to a similar punch without a bandage or with a thinner one.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Bandages*
  • Biomechanical Phenomena*
  • Boxing*
  • Humans
  • Male