Magnesia in gymnastics: Your helper for more grip and safety
Magnesia , also known as chalk, is an absolute must in gymnastics. Whether you're competing or training, this white powder ensures you always have a secure grip on the equipment and perform optimally. Thanks to its versatile properties, magnesia helps absorb sweat, increase friction, and protect your skin from irritation.
Why magnesia?
When doing gymnastics, it's crucial that your hands stay dry and maintain a firm grip. This is where magnesia comes in:
- Sweat absorption: The powder binds excess sweat so your hands stay dry – ideal for intensive training sessions and competitions.
- Increased friction: The rough texture of magnesia provides more grip between your hands and the equipment, allowing you to train safely and in a controlled manner.
- Skin protection: Magnesia forms a protective layer that protects your skin from friction and irritation – especially important when changing devices frequently.
Magnesia in action: device by device
The application of magnesia varies depending on the equipment and exercise. Here's an overview of how you can benefit from its advantages in different disciplines:
For male gymnasts:
- Horizontal Bar: A secure grip is essential on the horizontal bar, as you'll be hanging from the bars for approximately 40 seconds and performing challenging aerial moves. High-quality magnesium prevents your hands from slipping.
- Parallel bars: On the parallel bars, you alternate between different grips and positions. Here, magnesia—often combined with honey—provides the perfect grip for long-hang elements.
- Rings: You support your entire body weight on the rings and perform power-intensive swings. Magnesium is essential here to prevent slipping.
- Jump & Ground: Whether you're taking off quickly, jumping safely or landing with control – magnesia ensures that you always have a stable footing.
For female gymnasts:
- Beam: A firm stance on the beam is essential. Magnesium helps you secure your stance and perform precise exercises.
- Uneven bars: Here too, magnesia ensures a secure grip so that you can master your elements without slipping.
- Vault & Floor: As with male gymnasts, magnesia on the hands and feet ensures a non-slip approach, safe take-off and controlled landing.
Liquid magnesia: An alternative
In addition to traditional magnesia powder, there is also liquid magnesia . This alternative is applied directly to your hands and, after drying quickly, forms a thin, adherent layer. Liquid magnesia is particularly suitable if you prefer a dust-free and hygienic application or if you have sensitive skin. However, this variant has not yet become widely established in competitive sports.
Magnesia and competition rules
In gymnastics, strict regulations apply regarding the use of magnesia. The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) defines precise guidelines regarding the quantities and types of magnesia permitted. It is therefore important to familiarize yourself with the current regulations before competitions to avoid disqualification.
Conclusion
For gymnasts, magnesia is an essential tool for optimizing your performance and preventing injuries. It ensures a secure grip on all equipment and allows you to perform your exercises precisely and with maximum safety. With over 20 years of experience in artistic gymnastics, our expertise flows into the selection and production of high-quality products – tested by professionals for professional use in gymnastics.
