How to Rip Athletic Tape

Ripping sports tape can be a difficult process. If not done correctly, tape can stretch, distort and stick to itself, creating a mess and wasting tape. The correct process, however, can be be learned quickly and, with a little practice, done with ease.

Unroll the desired length of sports tape.

Connect the open end of the tape to a clean, solid object. Attaching the tape to desk or counter can help keep the tape taut and prevent it from bunching and sticking to itself.

Grasp the tape tightly at the tearing point. Use your thumbs and forefingers, with each on opposite sides of the tape. Press both fingers tightly against the tape and both sets tightly against each other.

Push away with one hand while simultaneously pulling in the other hand. Avoid a slow, deliberate motion as it will stretch and distort the ends of the tape and increase the difficulty of splitting it. Instead, move with a quick motion that will split with a minimum of stretching.