Does Kinesio tape really work?

Adhesive tape stuck on the skin seems an improbable remedy for cycling-related aches and pains — but it’s growing in popularity. Does kinesiology tape really work? Tom Goom and David Bradford weigh the claims against the evidence

(Image credit: Yuzuru Sunada)

Why are many cyclists, even some pros, festooning their limbs with gaudily-coloured sticky tape?

No, they’re not patching up improbably shaped crash wounds; they’re attempting to alleviate muscular injuries and improve performance. The material in question is called kinesiology tape and is not, in fact, a recent innovation; it was developed 30 years ago by Japanese chiropractor Dr Kenzo Kase.

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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan

Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.