Athletic taping is the process of applying tape directly to the skin or over prewrap in order to maintain a stable position of bones and muscles during athletic activity.

It is a procedure that uses athletic tape (pressure-sensitive tape similar to surgical tape or elastic therapeutic tape), attached to the skin, to physically hold muscles or bones at a certain position. This reduces pain and aids recovery.

Taping is usually used to help recover from overuse and other injuries.

The general goals of athletic taping are to restrict the motion of an injured joint, in order to add stability for a temporary period of time.

It compresses soft tissues to reduce swelling, support anatomical structures involved in the injury, serve as a splint or secure a splint, secure dressing or bandages, protect the injured joint from re-injury, and protect the injured part while the injured part is in the healing process.

Athletic taping is recognized as one of the top preventative measures for reduction of injuries in collision sports.

These injuries often occur as a result of extrinsic factors such as collision with other players or equipment.

Athletic taping has also been shown to reduce the severity in injuries, as well as the occurrence of injury in most sports, this is especially helpful for people who are prone to certain injuries

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