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.