Is there a perfect Grip for CrossFit?
Spoiler: no, but you can find the perfect one for you.
But if perfection is not of this world, at least you can get very close to it with some of the models we have created to help you master your WODs. Because even if there is no perfect Grip... perhaps there is the perfect one for you.
Do I need Grips to start in crossfit?
If you are starting in CrossFit, it is normal to feel lost: you don't understand the names of the exercises, and suddenly you see everyone running to their bags for tape, wristbands or Grips. And you wonder: “Do I need Grips to start?” The quick answer: not at first, but probably yes very soon.
When you start, it is good to train without equipment to:
- Strengthen grip naturally.
- Feel the bar and the rings.
- Develop calluses (literally).
But when the WODs start to intensify and your hands are full of wounds, good Grips become your best allies. Not only to protect but to improve your performance.
Why is there no perfect Grip?
Because there is not a single need nor a single type of athlete.
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Some find them too thick.
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Others, too thin.
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Some want them with holes, others without.
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With magnesium, without magnesium, hybrids…
The reality is that each athlete has different preferences, and the only way to find "your" perfect Grip is by trying what best suits you.
Like the hook grip: at first it hurts, but then you can't live without it.
Searching for the most perfect Grip possible
If there is no perfect Grip, what you have to do is search for the most perfect one for you. At PICSIL, we have devised, designed, and handcrafted models of Grips to try to fit your aspiration to perfection. If PICSIL's Grips are not perfect, they do have virtues such as:
- Being handmade in Spain in an artisanal way
- Having a patented design and fabric
- They are hypoallergenic and vegan-friendly
- They have been tested by elite athletes
PICSIL's Grips Models
By usage types:
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With chalk: greater grip, ideal for slippery bars.
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Without chalk: powerful grip without the need for chalk.
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Hybrids: the best of both worlds.
By design:
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With holes: classic fit, more control.
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Without holes: versatility and quickness when putting them on.
Our models:
When to use Grips in the box?
If you choose to buy Grips to face your first WOD in the box, you will need to know when it is best to use them:
- If you have gymnastics in class: warm-up, skill, and in the WOD itself.
- If you have any injury or to prevent them: wounds, hard calluses, very dry and damaged hands.
- If you are not yet used to the Olympic bars and you hurt yourself during lifts.
- If you need to improve your grip during the WOD, beyond gymnastics.
You may not need them at first or you may not like using them, but over time you will understand why all the veterans in your box have a pair of Grips in their backpack.
Ways to use Grips
Are there more than one way to use Grips? There is the classic way, hooking the fingers in the holes of the Grip.
Leaving the fingers out of the Grip.
Folding the edge of the Grip to reinforce the base of the fingers.
In summary: There is no perfect Grip for everyone. But there is a perfect Grip for you. You just have to try, train, and keep progressing. The Grips will not do the pull-ups for you, but they will help you go further without ruining your hands.
And you, what is your favorite model? Tell us in the comments :)
