Hand guard explained

Hand guards are devices worn by athletes in artistic gymnastics. Gymnasts use various types of hand guards:

• Grips are used on the uneven bars, high bar, still rings and parallel bars to enhance the gymnast's grip and, in the case of bar exercises, to reduce friction between the gymnast's hands and the bar.^{[1] [2]}
• Hand braces do not offer the gymnast any performance advantage, but help to prevent injury by providing support and lessening the impact on the wrists and hands.
• Wrist guards are usually worn by male gymnasts performing on the pommel horse, and sometimes by female gymnasts on the floor exercise or vault.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Astor . Maggie . Why gymnasts use chalk and grips on the uneven bars. . . 4 November 2024 . 29 July 2021.
2. Web site: Gymnastics 101: Equipment Guide . . 4 November 2024 . 18 March 2024.