A large basin of chalk is a typical fixture in every gymnastics facility, leaving bare chalk footprints on the floors and mats. Gymnasts liberally dust their hands and legs with chalk before some gymnastics events, especially the bar events. Young gymnasts quickly discover the benefits of chalk for work on some gymnastics apparatuses.
The Chalk
Gymnastics chalk is magnesium carbonate. Gymnastics chalk, which is also used for weightlifting and rock climbing, is typically sold in solid blocks, but can also be powdered and sold in shakers. Chalk lotions are an alternative, but are significantly less common for both recreational and competitive gymnastics. In most gyms, chalk is stored in a dome-shaped container to reduce chalk dust in the air and surrounding area.
Function
Chalk dries up excess sweat and provides the gymnast with additional grip and traction when working on various pieces of equipment. Gymnasts chalk their hands and hand grips for pommel horse, rings and bars. Some gymnasts might also opt to chalk their legs for bar work. During work on the high bar or uneven parallel bars, the legs come in contact with the bar during routines and might slip.
Using Chalk
Gymnasts can apply chalk anywhere they want to increase traction or dry sweat, including the hands, legs and feet. Powdered chalk is rubbed into the skin, then the excess is tapped off of the hands or legs. Chalk blocks can be crushed to a powder and used like powdered chalk or may be used intact for less mess. Liquid or chalk lotions are ideal for a tidier gym or a gymnast who might not tolerate chalk dust well.
Warning
While chalk cannot dry sweat and improve grip when used on the hands, legs or feet, it might not prevent slips and falls from the apparatus. Gymnasts should practice in a safe, well-padded space and use care when mastering new skills. Individuals with allergies or asthma might have difficulty with the chalk dust present in most gymnastics facilities.
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