What preparation step is recommended before applying tape to an athlete's skin?

Before applying tape to an athlete's skin, shaving the affected body part is recommended. This step is crucial because hair can interfere with the adhesion of the tape, potentially causing it to peel off prematurely or create discomfort for the athlete. By ensuring a smooth surface, the tape adheres better, which enhances its effectiveness in providing support to muscles or joints. Shaving also reduces the risk of skin irritation that can occur if hair gets caught in the adhesive.

While other options may seem relevant, they do not contribute to the preparation process in the same way that shaving does. For example, applying ice is more suited for managing inflammation or pain rather than for preparing skin for taping. Moistened skin can reduce tape adhesion rather than improve it, and using a medicated cream may create a barrier that diminishes the tape's ability to stick effectively. Therefore, shaving is the most appropriate preparation step in this context.