In the parallel bars in the olympics when they put the powder on the bars & hands does it give them more grip?

Question

or does it make the surface slippery for the turns & maneuvers

Answer 1

Actually, it does both. It gives more grip. And also acts to absorb any moisture from sweat.

Answer 2

it gives them grip

Answer 3

its powdered chalk

it gives them grip

they use it so that if they sweat, the bar doesnt get slippery

Answer 4

it actually makes it more smooth so their hands don't catch on the bars when they are trying to turn quickly.  i don't know if i would use the word slippery really but essentially, yes, thats what it does.  it makes it easier for them to spin faster.  it also absorbs sweat because sweat can make a bar slippery, but if in patches, it can make a bar stick. so essentially they use it for both.  it makes everything run more smoothly.