Why Gymnasts Are Always Covered Head to Toe With Chalk

Every athlete has their pre-game rituals. Whether it’s a mantra before hitting the track or a special drink order and music playlist, pros tend to stick to a routine before the start of a competition. You’ll probably see a few of them at the upcoming 2024 Olympics
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One ritual that’s sure to make an appearance: just before beginning a routine, gymnasts will dust their hands with a white powdery substance. If you’ve ever been curious about what that powder is or why it’s used, we looked into it.

Usually referred to as “chalk,” the powdery substance is inorganic salt, magnesium carbonate (chemical formula MgCO3) and it can be incredibly useful when it comes to reducing friction during certain skills, like high bar and rings, per NBC Olympics.

Why Do Gymnasts Use Chalk?

Essentially, the chalk is used for two main purposes. First, it absorbs the sweat off of gymnasts’ hands, helping them keep a better grip on apparatuses such as the parallel or uneven bars. Second, it actually decreases the friction between the hands and the apparatus, allowing gymnasts to move more smoothly on the bars and avoid friction-related injuries. As you might have noticed, gymnasts don’t just use chalk on their hands. For example, gymnasts will often use chalk on their feet as well as their hands before performing a routine on the balance beam. Again, it’s much for the same reasons: to absorb sweat and assist with grip and movement. Using the substance is completely within the rules of gymnastics and is an expected part of most gymnasts’ performances.

While most gymnasts stick to the traditional chalk powder, a few of them have made more unusual choices to assist their grip. Some gymnasts choose to mix water with their chalk, while others use honey, per NBC. A 2012 Wall Street Journal reports that some athletes will even use molasses or melted-down gummy bears. Surprisingly, those substances aren’t against the rules either, as long as it doesn’t leave a mess behind.

Amanda Prahl is a freelance writer, playwright/lyricist, dramaturg, teacher, and copywriter/editor. Amanda has also contributed to Slate, Bustle, Mic, The Mary Sue, and others.