Originally Posted by
Durden7
Originally Posted by
wawaweewa
There is no argument that chalk enhances safety and the utility of the bar (why are bars knurled in the first place? It wears down over time).
There is a rule against chalk because it is seen as being used by "powerlifters/strength athletes" and many of the gyms don't want to attract that clientèle because it might make some members uncomfortable.
Chalk is part of weight training. It is a necessary accessory. Just like straps, wrist wraps, tape, belt. They all have their place at certain moments.
So the calk on the bar helps prevent it from breaking down over time even though its already knurled? Ehhhhhhhh thats def. debatable.
Its not that its seen as being used by powerlifters/strength athletes, its just viewed as not clean and a mess. Its a difficult sell when a potential member is being given a tour and theres white powder all over every bar, DB and the floor. You might know what it is and its purposes, but the vast majority of members do not and its not a pleasant sight.
Chalk isn't a necessary accessory. A perfectly good workout routine can be completed without the use of chalk. Only a small % of people who exercise use chalk and the ones who don't still get good results from not using it. Theres no such thing as a necessary accessory by the way. If it was needed it wouldn't be an accessory. Straps aren't needed (counter-productive at times), wrist straps arent needed, tape isnt needed. Belts certainly do have their benefits so I wont disagree with that. Also, if they have their place at certain moments it automatically disqualifies it as being necessary.
I totally understand why chalk is used, im not saying its stupid to use it but from the club/management perspective its such a hassle.