Should I Use Gloves During Loading Events in Strongman Training?

As a passionate strongman athlete, I've often pondered the question, "Should I use gloves during loading events?" It's a topic that sparks debate among amateurs and seasoned competitors alike. Gloves can offer certain advantages, but they also come with their fair share of disadvantages. Let's dive into the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision for your strongman training.

Glove Benefits and Protection:

Gloves undeniably provide an extra layer of protection for your hands during loading events. When dealing with heavy and awkward objects, such as atlas stones or sandbags, the risk of abrasions and blisters is quite high. Properly fitting and durable gloves can shield your skin from the friction and pressure, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without worrying about painful aftermaths.

Furthermore, gloves can be beneficial when dealing with objects that may have sharp edges or rough surfaces. While loading kegs or carrying logs, gloves act as a barrier, reducing the chance of cuts and scratches. For those who are relatively new to strongman sports and haven't developed thick calluses, gloves can be a game-changer, ensuring you can train consistently without dealing with painful hand injuries.

Glove Disadvantages and Potential Hazards:

However, it's important to acknowledge that gloves aren't a foolproof solution. One of the main concerns is the risk of gloves becoming slippery, especially when sweat accumulates during intense loading events. Slippery gloves can result in a loss of grip, leading to accidents and failed attempts. Imagine struggling to lift a heavy stone or carry a weighty object, only to have your gloves betray you at the critical moment!

Moreover, gloves might not fit everyone's hand shape and size perfectly. Ill-fitting gloves can be uncomfortable, hindering your performance and potentially causing more harm than good. It's crucial to find gloves that offer a snug fit while allowing your fingers enough mobility to maintain proper control over the objects.

The Best Strongman Gloves and Building Thick Skin:

If you're considering incorporating gloves into your strongman training, opt for high-quality ones that strike a balance between grip, protection, and breathability. Look for gloves specifically designed for strongman sports, as they are more likely to withstand the rigorous demands of loading events.

On the other hand, some experienced strongman athletes swear by bare-handed training to build thick calluses and toughen their skin. Over time, their hands become more resilient to the challenges of loading events, reducing the need for gloves. It's a personal choice that often comes down to individual preference and the type of events you participate in.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the decision to use gloves during loading events in strongman training is not a straightforward one. Gloves can offer valuable protection and aid, especially for beginners or when dealing with potentially hazardous objects. However, they are not without risks, as slippery gloves and poor fit can lead to unintended consequences.

Ultimately, the choice is yours to make. I encourage you to try both glove-assisted and bare-handed training, assess what works best for you, and make an informed decision based on your experience and comfort level. Remember, strongman sports require dedication, continuous learning, and the willingness to adapt your approach for optimal performance and safety.