Grip Aids: My Lifesaver as a Beginner in Pole & Aerial Classes
When I first started pole and aerial classes, I was absolutely terrified. Not just because of the intense workouts or the complex tricks, but because of my hands. As a beginner, I was constantly worried that my hands would get too sweaty and I’d lose my grip—leading to the inevitable fear of falling. That’s when I was introduced to grip aids, and let me tell you, they were a game changer for me.
In this post, I’m going to share my journey with grip aids, the different types that have helped me, and some recommendations for others who might be struggling with sweaty palms or dry skin. Whether you're a pole newbie or an experienced aerialist, figuring out what works for your body is essential. So, let's dive in!
The Struggle with Sweat (and Fear of Falling)
As a beginner, my biggest challenge was dealing with sweaty palms. Whenever I got nervous or worked too hard, my hands would start to sweat, making it difficult to execute even the simplest of spins. And as you can probably imagine, the thought of slipping and falling only made my anxiety worse.
That’s when I was introduced to my first grip aid: Dry Hands. This liquid chalk quickly became my best friend. It helped me stay calm and in control, even when I was working on difficult moves or facing my fears of falling. If you’ve ever experienced sweaty palms, you’ll understand just how important something like this can be in keeping you confident on the pole.
My Grip Aid Toolbox: What Works for Me
Over the years, I’ve tested a wide variety of grip aids, especially because my skin reacts so differently depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of some of the products I’ve tried, and what worked best for me:
1. Dry Hands - Liquid Chalk
Dry Hands has been my go-to product for years. This liquid chalk works wonders for sweaty skin types like mine, keeping me from slipping when I’m focusing on spins or static tricks. It’s a staple in my grip aid collection, and it’s my personal recommendation for anyone who struggles with sweaty palms.
2. Tite Grip 2 - Antiperspirant for Your Skin
Tite Grip 2 is another fantastic option for sweaty skin types. As an antiperspirant for the skin, it helps reduce moisture and keeps your grip strong. I’ve used this in conjunction with Dry Hands during particularly hot classes, and it’s been a solid addition to my routine.
3. Grip It - Spray Grip Aid
Grip It is a spray that works well for those who need quick-drying, non-greasy grip. This has been especially helpful when I’m working on fast-paced transitions or need a quick boost in between routines.
Adjusting for Different Seasons
I’ve learned that grip aids aren’t one-size-fits-all—they depend on your skin type and even the season! For example, during winter, my skin tends to dry out, making it harder to grip onto the pole. In these dry months, I’ve found that rosin and powdered grip aids work much better for me than the liquid options I use in the summer. The dry air doesn’t mix well with liquid chalk, so I’ve learned to adapt with a different strategy.
One product that has worked wonders for me in the winter months is the Lupit Grip Pad. This works really well on both stainless steel and brass poles. Brass poles tend to be grippier, so I’m cautious not to overdo it with the grip aids or I risk sticking too much to the pole.
Dealing with Dry Skin: iTAC and Other Alternatives
For people with dry skin, some grip aids, like iTAC, might seem like a great solution. While it’s a popular product, I personally didn’t have much success with it. As I mentioned earlier, my body tends to sweat more often than not, so products like iTAC just didn’t work for me.
On rare cold days when my skin dries out completely, I still face the challenge of sweaty hands and feet. The struggle is real—my skin may be dry, but my palms are still slippery! But finding the right balance of grip aid for both hot and cold months is something that takes a bit of trial and error.
For Aerialists: Other Grip Aid Options
As aerialists, we don’t just use grip aids for the pole—we also need them for the fabrics, silks, and hoops. One spray that has been incredibly helpful for aerial work is Cramer’s Firm Grip. This spray is very sticky and works wonders for fabrics, especially when you're dealing with those frustrating moments of slipping mid-performance. However, I’d advise against using it on poles as it’s too sticky and can make transitions awkward.
Bonus: Grippy Pole Wear
In addition to grip aids, grippy pole wear has also become a game-changer for many people. There are leggings, bodysuits, and kneepads designed to help increase grip, particularly for aerialists and pole dancers who want a little extra support. It’s a great alternative for those who might not want to rely solely on grip aids and also perhaps are seeking extra body coverage.
Final Thoughts: Experiment & Find What Works for You
As a beginner, finding the right grip aid can make all the difference in your pole and aerial journey. It’s a process of experimentation—what works for one person may not work for you, and vice versa. For me, Dry Hands remains my standard go-to, but I keep a few different products on hand for different situations.
Remember, don’t be discouraged if it takes a little while to find your perfect grip aid routine. With time, patience, and a bit of trial and error, you’ll find what works best for your body.
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Closing tip for beginners: Don’t be afraid to explore different options until you find what works for you. And most importantly, trust yourself and your grip—you’ve got this!