Indoor Rock Climbing — Should You Really Consider a Climbing Chalk?
When you start indoor rock climbing, it’s hard to stop. This activity includes health benefits, useful skills, and a lot of fun! As you arrive in the rock climbing world, you learn new tips and tricks every day. From if you should wear socks while indoor rock climbing to what kind of shoes to wear — there’s a bunch of information to take in.
One of the things you’ll learn about is climbing chalk. Yes! Many people use chalk during indoor rock climbing. In his blog, we’ll tell you why it’s important.
What Exactly is Climbing Chalk?
Chalk is a handy tool used by climbers to keep their hands dry since it prevents them from slipping. Usually, climbing chalk is made from Magnesium Carbonate. You can find it in many colors, but generally, it is available in white.
Other than this, you can find climbing chalk in the block, loose, or liquid form. Each has its own benefits; you can use the one you prefer.
Block chalk needs to be broken apart to the desired size since it is a compressed, solid block of Magnesium Carbonate. If you want the form that’s already broken up, go for loose chalk. You can find it in chunky to fine powder form. Lastly, liquid chalk is created by mixing Magnesium Carbonate with alcohol. It’s easy to apply; you can just squirt and use it like a lotion.
Who Should Use a Climbing Chalk?
Using chalk when indoor rock climbing can help you climb better. The oil and sweat on your hands might cause slipping. The chalk, however, will absorb the oil or sweat on your palms and fingers. Researchers have opposing beliefs regarding this matter; it is generally accepted by climbers that removing oil and sweat creates the necessary friction.
You should definitely consider using climbing chalk if:
- You Have Sweaty or Oily Hands
Some people sweat more than others. Hence, you might have naturally sweaty hands if you find yourself wiping your palms on your pants often. Sweaty hands can be a cause of inconvenience in day-to-day life. However, when it comes to indoor rock climbing, it can cause more issues. This is because sweat can lead to hands slipping off of the rock.
If your hands are sweaty throughout the climbing session, even with the chalk, you might need something more. Thus, consult a professional about safe products to use for longtime dryness.
- You are Prone to Skin-Related Injuries
Indoor rock climbing is not dangerous. In fact, there are only minor injuries and skin abrasions that occur with indoor rock climbing. However, many people are still susceptible to flappers and other skin injuries. Although it’s not common, your hands might stick to the rocks or handholds if they’re too moist. This often leads to flappers.
But hands being too moist might not be the only problem. Your skin could break easily if it’s too dry or if the calluses are dry. This also increases the likelihood of flappers. In these cases, climbing chalk helps control the amount of moisture in your hands.
On Your Way to an Indoor Rock Climbing Session?
If you are interested in indoor rock climbing, using climbing chalk can make your experience better. Remember to wash the chalk when you’re done, though!
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