Assist Equipment vs. Chalk

[Frostfire]

Okay, so I was deadlifting today when my palms got REALLY sweaty for the last 4 or so reps. It totally taxed my grip (and it probably was a little dangerous). Then I got some chalk for my next set and there was no problem.

So, this made me think. Does chalk count as an assist (not officially)? I'm wondering if it does as much damage as, say, straps would. I was just thinking because I know a lot of you are totally against belts, suits, and other aids. Just want to start a little discussion , what do y'all think?

[JP]

The RAW powerlifting competitions allow for chalk, belt and wrist wraps. The latter two because of safety issues (as opposed to squat suits and bench shirts which are not about safety) and chalk because different conditions would otherwise make the lifting different in different competitions.

Personally i'd use chalk when going for new records, but would try to avoid it as much as possible in my normal training - exactly for the reasons you meantioned, that my grip has to work harder. Then again, i might think differently if i was living in south africa

[VeganEssentials]

Chalk is something I always keep on me, but definitely reserve it for those "special occasions." I would never compare removing moisture from your hands to using straps because your hands are still doing all the work to hold on with no artificial assistance, but it does add a new feel to holding a bar (or other object.) I haven't used straps in over 3 years, and only use chalk when I know that conditions with sweating and hot temperatures will affect my ability to hold the bar to make the most of my lift. That, and with things like pinch gripping it is tough to grab on to painted smooth surfaces such as some weight plates and other pinch grip tools as the moment you perspire it feels like you've put grease on whatever you're working out with. Again, a situaution where chalk is a big help, but I don't use it until I know it will be necessary to hold on to what I need, and again, I don't feel it reduces the effectiveness of a lift as my hands still have to hold on with everything they have.

It is something you never want to be reliant on, but it sure does help in some situations!

Ryan