Q&A for How to Break in Gymnastics Grips

You need a block of chalk or powder chalk, then rub it on your grips and hands. You may need spray to help with gripping the bar, so either spray the bar and chalk up your grips, or spray your grips, then chalk the grips. Don't use too much spray or chalk, or you could slip.

The grips should be to your first knuckle on your two middle fingers. At first they will be tight, but you will get used to it. Talk to your coach and see if your grips fit correctly.

It will usually take 1-2 weeks for your grips to be broken in. Make sure to use them over and over again on the bar so that your hands become accustomed to them.

No, this is very common.

Yes! Grips will let you grasp on even if your palms are sweaty, and are especially good for big performances when you are nervous and your palms get really sweaty.

You can put your grip on either hand. You choose what feels more comfortable and easier to swing on. Always trust your own feelings about what works best for you.

You should look at a sporting goods store, or check online if you cannot find it in a local store.

You are ready for grips at any time. It's just that when you use grips, your palms don't get stronger, so you should avoid them as a beginner to ensure that you can build up the muscles in your hands properly.

You can! I used to have hands that easily ripped too, however, the rips mostly happened on areas not protected by the grip. If that is the case for you, wearing a tape grip will not help. Filing down callouses with a microplane foot file is more likely to reduce your rips. Try not to put water on your skin, as this increases friction with the bar, causing more rips. But if your rips mostly happen under the grip area, a tape grip will work well for you and should not interfere with the bar. Try to make it roughly the same length as the grip.

Yes, you can find gymnastic chalk with no corn in it. Another alternative is using talcum powder, which works just as well as chalk.

First, try soap and water (more soap, less water, because water might ruin the leather). If that doesn't work, try hydrogen peroxide.

Yes. If you are peeling or slipping off the bar, this usually means that the dowel is not over the bar.