The reason is the same, and that is the absorption of sweat and achievement of better grip. They apply to chalk both on hands and feet before doing any movement on the balance beam. So, gymnasts feel comfortable doing movements on bars and can refrain from any injury caused by friction.Īnother important thing you must know is that gymnasts also use chalk on their feet, especially females. Chalk powder, liquid, or solid block reduces friction that occurs between hands and specific apparatus.So, gymnasts can keep their hands dry and grip better on various apparatuses like uneven and parallel bars. Chalk is very helpful in absorbing sweat.The two primary purposes of using chalk on hands are:
Why do gymnasts apply chalk to their hands? Rather, it will weaken the grip and your hands may sweat after some time resulting in a deadly slip. The baby powder won’t give you the grip needed for gymnastics. Many beginners may think of using baby powder instead of chalk. After application, it converts into powder form.Ĭhalk makes a gymnast feel extremely comfortable and confident while performing various complicated movements.
Liquid chalk or spray chalk is used by lots of gymnasts. But, some gymnasts do not prefer using it because it is messy in nature. You can get chalk in the form of powder, liquid, and solid blocks. The chalk is made up of inorganic salt known as Magnesium Carbonate or MgCO3. Many female athletes prefer using chalk on their feet for performing on a balance beam. There is minimal risk of hand and body injury. Again, chalk resists friction and lets gymnasts spin smoothly. It keeps the performers’ hands sweat-free resulting in zero slip. How does gymnastics chalk work?Ĭhalk is great for moisture absorption.