Rugby Lifting Blocks and Lineout Tape

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Lifting Blocks, Lifting Pads, Chocks - What's the Difference? Nothing - they're all the same product described differently depending on club, coach or brand preference. Lifting blocks, lifting pads, lifting chocks and jumping blocks all refer to the foam pads worn by locks and jumpers in the lineout to give the lifters a stable, consistent grip point. The pads typically sit on the outside of the thighs and are secured with tape. Lifting sleeves are a slightly different format - a fitted sleeve that wraps around the thigh with integrated grip panels rather than separate pads. Both work to the same end. Lifting Blocks vs Lifting Sleeves Lifting blocks are the traditional format - foam pads taped to the outside of the jumper's thighs before the game. They're the most widely used option at club level because they're simple, affordable and replaceable. The downside is that taping takes time before a game and the blocks can shift if not applied properly. Lifting sleeves are a fitted alternative - a compression sleeve worn on the thigh with grip panels built in. No taping required, more consistent positioning, and reusable without any preparation. They're increasingly popular at club and school level for the convenience and saving money on tape ! How to Tape Lifting Blocks You need two lifting blocks, a roll of 7.5cm EAB and a roll of sock tape - all available on this page from Sporttape . Place the first block on the outside of your thigh, slightly above the knee - roughly where the lifters' hands will grip during the lineout. Take your EAB and stretch it slightly as you apply it directly over the block, wrapping the thigh two or three times to hold it firmly in position. Once the block is covered, add a layer of sock tape just above and just below the block to lock it in place and stop the EAB rolling or shifting during the game. Repeat on the other leg. The whole process takes two or three minutes once you've done it a few times. If blocks are consistently shifting duri