Why Chalk?

I took the post below from my friend Dave Young owner of Gravity Janes in Issaquah:

"Used correctly, chalk is an aid to maintaining control of a load. However, chalk can actually compromise your work when used inappropriately.

Here's how you know when and how to use chalk.

Chalk is designed to aid grip integrity that is compromised by maximum loads or reps, skin that is tender from overuse, or where sweat may cause the grip to become slippery. This means that the use of chalk should be limited to addressing one of those problems, not just because it's there.

What most don't understand is that there is a distinct benefit to getting reps without chalk: you will be developing greater toughness that will assist that work in the future. The goal is to not need chalk, or at least need it rarely.

Therefore:

DO NOT...

...automatically head for the chalk bucket before your first rep. This behavior only demonstrates your lack of understanding about the value of chalk.

DO...

...delay the use of chalk until you absolutely need it to continue. This includes pull ups, deadlifts, and any kettlebell work.

...keep the chalk in the bucket. Shake and/or rub off all excess before you remove your hands from the bucket.

...clean up your chalk after the workout.

CHALK ASSISTS WITH...

Maximum loads
Maximum reps
Tender skin
Sweat that compromises grip

When you are asked why you are using chalk, be prepared to explain which of these problems you're addressing at that moment."