An essential piece of gymnastics equipment are gymnastics grips. The starting level for using gymnastics grips is level 4.
Protection and holding power are provided by grips. To keep grips in good working condition you must know how to care for them.
Caring for your gymnastics grips can be done in four steps
#1 Possible wear and tear inspection
Gymnastics grips can become a safety hazard with weak points or small tears. Before use, inspect your grips
after practice, examining closely any tears or weak points around the buckle, strap, or wrist.
Construing comfortable leather as weak is wrong. Soft leather is meant to wrap around the bar and fit your hand. But if the
leather is wearing thin and you’re unsure, ask a coach to inspect it for you. If you see a small tear in the leather, it’s likely the tear will
continue to grow. We recommend discarding gymnastics grips at the sign of any tear of any size on any part of the grip. It’s always better to error in the name of safety.
#2 Nap them with a wrap
Wrapping for 24 hours should be done for new gymnastics grips. With the finger tip edge first, roll the leather around the dowel.
Wrapping the grips around themselves you’re essentially securing them with a rubber band or piece of string. This will break in the leather
making grips flexible from hard leather. Conforming nicely to the human hand is flexible leather. This process should be repeated until the grips
sit against the palm at rest and feel comfortable. Once the leather is broken in this process can be stopped. Wrapping should last one to two weeks.
#3 Dust them
After each practice session excess chalk can build up on gymnastics grips. Compacted chalk in the leather due to the high amount of pressure
pressure between the bar and grips. You don’t want leather to become stiff with chalk build up. Excess chalk can be removed by brushing it off.
brushing it off. Similar to a dog brush, gymnasts will use a grip brush with semi rigid bristles. If out of a grip brush
if you take your time a stiff tooth brush would work. A brush could cut or damage the stitching so it’s important to stay away rendering
grips unsafe. Remember to brush back and forth across the length of the grips.
#4 Store them safe
When not in use, it’s important to protect gymnastics grips. A separate bag will keep grips during transport from getting ruined. Any
grips can weaken with a spill of water or soda on them. To be safe, and to keep any doubts from entering, remembering
grips are full of chalk and a storage bag will keep your other clothing and equipment free of chalk dust. Another benefit of separate storage is reducing the scent of sweat from absorbing into other items in your backpack or locker.
Following these 4 tips, in conclusion, will ensure a quality pair of gymnastics grips when you need them.
Learn more about Gymnastics. Stop by John Cox’s site where you can find out all about Gymnastics Grips and what they can do for you.