The Evolution of Rock Climbing Chalk from Owen Clarke Rock climbing chalk, meanwhile, sees it origins in gymnastics chalk and lifting chalk, which was originally sometimes sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), but most commonly magnesium carbonate (MgCO3), the same base used in most climbing chalk today. Although it’s not clear when exactly the practice began, chalk has been around and in use for as long as modern gymnastics has existed. Chalk was brought into the climbing world in 1954, by John Gill, the guy who invented bouldering. Before Gill, climbers would usually just wipe their pants if their hands got sweaty, or take a handful of dirt and rub it between their palms. A gymnast by training, Gill realized that gymnastic chalk’s remarkable properties as a drying agent, which in turn dramatically enhanced grip, would translate perfectly into climbing. As opposed to the common viewpoint that climbing was an extension of hiking, Gill saw climbing as an extension of gymnastics. Gill’s contribution of both chalk and dynamic movement to climbing can’t be overstated. An early issue of Alpinist described Gill’s efforts as “the beginning of modern climbing in America.” The rest, as they say, is history. Climbers have been using chalk ever since. The chalk of today typically comes in three forms: a fine powder (which is either loose or placed in chalk balls), blocks, and liquid. While many choose the types of chalk they use based on personal preference, each has its benefits and drawbacks. Which type of chalk is your favorite to use? @vengasalas on 'Taurine' V9 #chalkupless #climbmore #frictionlabs #climbingeducation #climbing