Why do gymnasts wear grips and wrist guards? This is a question we get asked frequently, so we’re here with an in-depth guide that covers the ins and outs of hand and wrist protection. It’s worth noting that not all gymnasts wear grips. Some prefer using gauze or sports tape with their grips, and others perform barehanded. It’s up to you and your coach to determine the best approach for you.
What Are Gymnastics Grips?
Gymnastics grips are accessories that are worn on the hands to improve athletic performance and prevent friction-related injuries. Female gymnasts wear grips on uneven bars; male gymnasts wear grips on still rings and high bars. Some male gymnasts also wear them on parallel bars, but this is rare.
The Anatomy of Gymnastics Grips
How to put on gymnastics grips properly depends on the grips’ features and design. For example, some grips are secured with hook and loop and others use buckles. That said, most grips are similar, so the first step is understanding their components and their purposes.
- Body: The main piece of leather that covers the hand and wrist.
- Straps: The piece that holds the grip’s body against the hand and wrist.
- Hook and Loop/Buckles: Used to tighten the straps.
- Finger Holes:The holes where fingers are inserted to keep the grip in place.
- Dowel:Cylindrical protrusions that act as a lip for improving the wearer’s hold. Not all grips have dowels.
Why Do Gymnasts Wear Grips?
Gymnastics is an incredibly vigorous activity that puts your hands and wrists at risk of injury. Knowing how to put on gymnastics grips is crucial to prevent rips, blisters, and other injuries caused by high levels of friction and pressure. In addition to preventing injuries, grips help the gymnast form a stronger and more secure connection with the apparatus.
How To Put On Your Grips
Now that you know why gymnasts wear grips, it’s time to learn how to put them on properly. While styles and components can vary by make and model, most are similar. Always follow the instructions included with your grips. Here’s how to put on most gymnastics grips.
1. Prepare Your Hands
Before putting on your grips, make sure your hands are completely clean and dry and your fingernails are neatly trimmed.
2. Slide Your Fingers Into the Holes
Most grips have two holes for the middle and ring fingers. High bar grips for men have three holes for the index, middle, and ring fingers. For palm grips with no dowels, the holes should reach the base of the fingers. For dowel grips, the holes should sit in between your top and middle knuckle.
3. Position the Dowel
If you’re using dowel grips, it’s crucial that the dowels are in the correct position. They should be right below your middle fingers’ knuckles and near the base of the fingers.
4. Position the Grip
The grip’s body should be flat and centered across the palm of your hand.
5. Form the Body Into an ‘S’ Shape
As you learn how to put on gymnastics grips, make sure there’s enough excess material to form the leather body into an ‘S’ shape that sits directly below your fingers. The fold should protrude slightly so it’s flexible without bunching up.
6. Tighten the Grip
Use the hook and loop or buckles to tighten the grip until it’s secure enough not to slip, but not too tight that it restricts your blood flow or obstructs your range of motion.
Why Do Gymnasts Wear Wrist Guards?
Wrist guards are also used to prevent injuries related to wrist trauma, such as sprains, strains, and breaks. They keep the wrist joint stable and supported, which reduces the chances of injuries caused by repetitive movements or powerful impacts. Wrist guards can also alleviate existing wrist pain.
Why Do Gymnasts Wear Wristbands?
Besides wondering how to put on gymnastics grips, you might be curious about gymnastics wristbands. Many gymnasts wear wristbands under their grips or alone to prevent chafing, blisters, and irritation caused by friction against the apparatus and/or the grips themselves. They also help to absorb moisture, preventing hands and apparatuses from getting slippery.
Shop Gymnastics Grips and Other Accessories
Why do gymnasts wear grips and wrist guards? The quick answer is that they help prevent injuries and improve performance. If you’re not using them, or if you’ve had negative experiences in the past, you’re in the right place. Understanding how to put on gymnastics grips is the first step. Now, invest in a high-quality pair.
For over four decades, GK Elite has been the leading brand for gymnastics products. We’re most famous for our best-in-class gymnastics leotards, but we also offer a wide range of apparel, warm-up suits, and gymnastics accessories. Our Training Equipment collection includes a variety of pro-quality grips, wrist support guards, wristbands, chalk, and other essentials. Shop now!
