How to Choose Gymnastics Grips

Choosing whether to use handgrips over bare hands is a big decision in itself, but for gymnasts who do opt for using hand grips, the decision whether to use dowel grips or palm guards is even bigger. Many gymnasts and parents haven't been thoroughly educated on the benefits of grips vs. no grips and the differences between grips. Follow these steps to help choose which, if any, gymnastics grips are best for you or your child.

Instructions

    • 1

      Grin and "bare" it. Some professional gymnasts do not use hand grips because they prefer to toughen their hands naturally by forming calluses for protection. This is a painful process, however, and gymnasts must commit to many months, even years of working to get to this point, during which time a callous the size of the gymnast's entire palm can potentially rip off, causing severe pain and setting them back in their training.

    • 2

      Give the hands and skin extra support by choosing to use hand grips. As gymnasts grow, they find they need the grips because their weight and height increases, putting more pressure on their hands. By beginning to train with grips at a level 4-6, the gymnast is learning to adjust before reaching higher levels when the adjustment period can lead to delayed training.

    • 3

      Opt for dowel grips if the gymnast performs a lot of circling stunts or have small hands that don't fit all the way around the bars. The dowel gives that extra grip to ensure a firm clamp. Dowel grips are typically easier for gymnasts to get used to than palm guards.

    • 4

      Elect to use palm guards on younger gymnasts levels 4 and below. The grips protect the skin from blistering and prevent the painful side effects of ripping. Using palm guards over hand grips is really a matter of personal preference, however speaking to the gymnast's coach is necessary as he may feel one is better than the other for each individual athlete.

    • 5

      Decide on Velcro versus buckle closures. Velcro is obviously easier for younger gymnasts to manipulate on their own, but many gymnasts have a nervous habit of pulling the Velcro without, which causes it to weaken quickly. Again, check with the coach to see if he has a preference for his athletes.