Grip (gymnastics)
Grips are devices that are worn on the hands of artistic gymnasts when performing on various gymnastics apparatus. They are worn by female gymnasts on the uneven bars, and by male gymnasts on the high bar, and still rings; is rarely seen that a male gymnast uses grips for parallel bars. They are used to enhance the gymnast's grip on the apparatus, and also to reduce (but not eliminate) the friction that can cause painful blisters and rips, in which outer layers of skin separate and tear away from the hand.
Grips are optional and are not used by all gymnasts. Some athletes substitute sports tape or gauze for grips, while others use bare hands.
Read more about Grip (gymnastics): Basic Construction, Types of Grips
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