Taping the Achilles tendon: How to protect yourself from overload during training

Why Achilles tendon taping is more than just a trend

Whether during intensive training, before competitions, or during recovery, taping the Achilles tendon has become part of the daily routine for many gymnasts. And for good reason: The Achilles tendon is not only the strongest but also one of the most injury-prone tendons in the human body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is involved in every movement of the foot—from rolling to jumping to landing.

Overuse can quickly lead to inflammation, irritation, or even tears. To prevent this, more and more athletes are turning to targeted Achilles tendon taping —not just as an acute measure, but primarily as a preventative measure. In our online shop, we offer tape specially developed for gymnastics that sets new standards in terms of support, quality, and comfort.

In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about taping your Achilles tendon : from the correct technique to common mistakes and product recommendations from our range .

What happens when the Achilles tendon is overloaded?

The Achilles tendon is exposed to enormous forces every day – especially in gymnastics, where rapid changes of direction, high jumping loads, and hard landings are part of the equation. Chronic stress often leads to:

• Micro-tears in tendon tissue
  

• Inflammatory processes (Achillodynia)
  

• Swelling and pressure pain
  

• Movement restrictions up to chronic complaints
  
  

It becomes especially risky when initial symptoms are ignored. This is precisely where Achilles tendon taping comes in – it protects, stabilizes, and relieves pressure on the tissue.

How to tap the Achilles tendon

The goal of Achilles tendon taping is to relieve pressure on the tendon without restricting range of motion. Our method is based on current sports medicine findings and can be performed in just a few minutes – even without professional assistance.

Preparation

• Clean and dry skin thoroughly
  

• Do not apply oil or cream
  

• Pull foot slightly upwards (lift toes)
  
  

Tape cutting

• A longer piece of tape (approx. 20 cm) for vertical guidance
  

• Two shorter strips (approx. 10 cm each) for stabilization
  
  

Attach

1. Stick the base strip from the heel along the Achilles tendon to the calf muscles – with slight tension
   

2. Stick horizontal strips over the tendon – for localized relief
   

3. Fix the ends without pulling, rub lightly for better hold
   
   

Then check:

• No wrinkles or tension in the skin
  

• The tape must not constrict or cut
  

• It should remain comfortable even when moving
  
  

Advantages of taping at a glance

Taping the Achilles tendon has many advantages, especially in demanding gymnastics:

• Stability : reduces unnecessary movements and prevents irritation
  

• Pain relief : by relieving pressure on the tissue
  

• Promotes blood circulation : supports healing and regeneration
  

• Self-application : possible even without physiotherapy – perfect for home use
  

• Sense of security : especially after injuries or insecurities before competitions
  
  

The most common mistakes when taping the Achilles tendon

Many athletes report problems with taping – but in most cases it is due to the following mistakes:

• Cheap tape : Loosens at the first sweat or during warm-up
  

• Incorrect tension : Too much tension = skin irritation. Too little tension = no effect.
  

• Incorrect positioning : Tape misses the Achilles tendon – no support
  

• Unsuitable materials : Tape too rigid or too stretchy – no stability
  
  

That's why at MoonKing we only use medically tested tapes that are specifically optimized for gymnastics – strong adhesive, skin-friendly, and flexible in movement.

When should you tape the Achilles tendon?

Taping the Achilles tendon is useful:

• At the first sign of overload
  

• Before or during intensive training sessions
  

• Before competitions to increase the sense of security
  

• In regeneration after minor injuries
  

• For chronic irritation to support healing
  
  

Pro tip: Combine taping with mobilization exercises and targeted warm-up to achieve the best possible results.

Why our tape from MoonKing is ideal

Our tape was developed in collaboration with active gymnasts and tested under real competition conditions. It is:

• Medically tested
  

• Extra strong adhesion – stays in place even when sweating or moving
  

• Hypoallergenic – suitable for sensitive skin
  

• Flexible yet supportive
  

• Water-resistant – even when showering or sweating
  
  

A major advantage: Our tape is easy to apply yourself and comes with brief instructions tailored to gymnasts. This saves time, provides confidence, and allows you to optimally prepare for training and competition.

Experiences from the community

Our customers repeatedly report enthusiastically about taping their Achilles tendon with our MoonKing Tape:

" I used to always be sore after training. Since I started taping regularly, I can train through – and the tape even stays in place while I sweat. "
– Leonie, 15, gymnast from Cologne

" I'm often tense before competitions. The tape gives me confidence—not only physically, but also mentally. "
– Julian, 17, all-rounder

Such feedback strengthens our mission: to create high-quality products for ambitious gymnasts.

Conclusion: Taping the Achilles tendon protects, stabilizes and motivates

Anyone who wants to be successful in gymnastics must pay attention to every detail. Taping the Achilles tendon is an effective, simple, and proven method for preventing injuries, improving performance, and feeling confident. With the right tape—like that from MoonKing—and the right technique, you'll quickly feel how much more stability and confidence you gain.

Visit our shop , learn about our products , and take your training to the next level. 💪

Start now – and train pain-free

👉 Get your MoonKing Tape and start your next workout with confidence! 🏆