Easy Ways to Prevent Rips

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Rips -- the blisters that "rip" open on your hands from work on the uneven bars, parallel bars, high bars and rings -- can be a huge annoyance. They can make it very hard to swing and even to hold onto the bar, and, of course, resting your hand isn't always an option.

Here are some great tips for preventing rips from gymnastics coach Rik Feeney, with advice on caring for your hands post-rip as well.

And though grips don't completely block rips, finding the right pair can also help. Check out these 8 hints to remember when purchasing grips.