# Mugdar Oiling & Maintenance Guide for Beginners: Why Non-Polished Mugdar is Better and How to Maintain It **By MUGDAR HOUSE** · 2026-03-10 ![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0963/4765/2416/files/mugdar_oiling.jpg?v=1773149611) Traditional Indian training tools like the **Mugdar** are made from natural wood, which means they require proper care to maintain their strength, durability, and weight balance. One of the most important maintenance practices is **oiling the Mugdar**. Many people ask questions such as: - How do we oil a Mugdar properly? - Which oil should be used? - How often should it be done? - Why is a non-polished Mugdar better than a polished one? In this guide, we will explain the **correct Mugdar oiling process**, the **benefits of oiling**, and why **non-polished Mugdar is often the better choice for serious training**. # Polished vs Non-Polished Mugdar Mugdars generally come in two types: ### 1\. Polished Mugdar These have a shiny coating or polish on the wood surface. **Advantages** - No oiling required. - Smooth appearance. **Disadvantages** - Grip may become slippery during workouts, especially when hands sweat. - The wood cannot absorb oil, which means it may dry internally over time. - If dropped, the chances of cracking or breaking may increase because the wood lacks internal nourishment. ### 2\. Non-Polished Mugdar These are made from raw wood without any surface coating. **Advantages** - Better grip during workouts. - The wood can absorb oil, which keeps it strong and durable. - Weight remains more stable over time. - The wood remains nourished and less likely to crack. Because of these benefits, many traditional strength practitioners prefer **non-polished Mugdar**. # Why Oiling a Mugdar is Important Wood is a natural material that reacts to environmental conditions such as humidity, dryness, and temperature. Regular oiling provides several benefits: ### 1\. Protection from Moisture Oil acts like a **protective layer** that prevents the wood from reacting negatively to humidity. ### 2\. Maintains Wood Strength When wood becomes too dry, it can weaken internally. Oil keeps the fibers healthy and strong. ### 3\. Maintains Mugdar Weight Wood contains natural moisture. Over time, if the wood dries excessively, the Mugdar may lose weight. For example: - A **5 kg Mugdar** might reduce to **4–4.5 kg** after a long time if the wood dries out. - Proper oiling helps maintain the weight much better. High-quality woods like **Sheesham wood** already have good density, but oiling further protects the structure. ### 4\. Reduces Risk of Cracking If a dry Mugdar falls on the ground, it is more likely to crack. A well-oiled Mugdar remains stronger and more resistant to impact. # Best Oil for Mugdar The best oils to use are natural oils such as: - **Mustard oil** Mustard oil is commonly available in most Indian households and works extremely well for wooden fitness tools. # # What You Need for Oiling The process is simple. You only need: - Mustard oil - A small bowl - A **thin cotton cloth** A thin cloth is recommended because thick cloth absorbs too much oil and wastes it. # Step-by-Step Mugdar Oiling Process ### Step 1: Sit comfortably Place the Mugdar on a clean surface. ### Step 2: Dip the cloth in oil Take a small amount of oil on the cloth. ### Step 3: Start oiling from the bottom Always start from the **bottom part of the Mugdar**, not the handle. This is important because: - You usually hold the Mugdar from the top. - Starting from the bottom allows you to hold it easily while applying oil. ### Step 4: Apply evenly Rub the oil gently over the wooden surface. When oiling a **new Mugdar for the first time**, the wood will absorb more oil. After repeated oiling sessions, the Mugdar will absorb less oil. ### Step 5: Avoid pouring oil directly Do not pour oil directly onto the Mugdar and rub it with your hands. This can: - Waste oil - Make your hands sticky - Cause splinters to enter the skin if small wood fibers are present Always use a cloth. # Important Tip: Do Not Oil the Handle Before Workout If you plan to exercise soon after oiling: - Do **not apply oil to the handle immediately**. - Oil makes the handle slippery. You can oil the handle **after finishing your workout**. # How Often Should You Oil a Mugdar? Follow this schedule when the Mugdar is new: ### First Week Oil every **3 days** Example: - Monday - Thursday - Sunday ### First Month Oil **once per week** ### After One Month Oil **once per month** # Oiling During Rainy Season During the **rainy season**, humidity is higher and wood absorbs moisture easily. In this case: - Oil **once per week** - Store the Mugdar in a **well-ventilated area** - Avoid closed storage rooms where air does not circulate. Proper airflow helps prevent moisture buildup. # Why Polished Mugdar Can Be Risky During Workouts Many people claim polished Mugdars do not slip. However, this is often based on short workouts. When performing **100–200 repetitions**, sweat naturally appears on the body. Sweat may reach the hands or arms, increasing the chance of slipping. Non-polished wood provides a **much better natural grip**, which is especially important during long training sessions. # Final Thoughts Maintaining a Mugdar is simple, but proper care makes a big difference in its durability and performance. Regular oiling helps: - Protect the wood - Maintain the weight - Improve durability - Reduce risk of cracking - Preserve grip quality A well-maintained Mugdar can last **many years**, becoming stronger with time while continuing to support traditional strength training. If you are serious about traditional strength training, choosing a **high-quality non-polished Mugdar and maintaining it properly** is one of the best investments you can make in your training journey. --- > Source: [MUGDAR HOUSE](https://mugdarhouse.in/blogs/news/mugdar-oiling-maintenance-guide-for-beginners-why-non-polished-mugdar-is-better-and-how-to-maintain-it)