Hiking is a fun and rewarding activity, but it can also be physically demanding, especially when tackling challenging terrains or carrying a heavy backpack. One way to ease the strain and enhance your hiking experience is by using hiking poles (otherwise known as trekking poles). While some hikers consider them unnecessary, many seasoned trail enthusiasts swear by them.
I myself had my own realisation of the power of hiking poles in recent years. I always had the impression that hiking poles were for old people! Turns out that the old people were on to something!
As I began to hike further distances and on tougher/steeper terrain, I decided to give them a go. The difference was immediately apparent. Using hiking poles made the uphills less strenuous and the downhills less impactful.
I decided to put together this brief article which explains more about the benefits of hiking poles and some tips on how to use them best.
Group of Hikers trekking through a valley using hiking polesBenefits of Hiking with Poles
- Improved Stability:
Hiking poles provide additional points of contact with the ground, which increases your stability and balance, especially on uneven terrains, rocky paths, or river crossings. - Reduced Impact on Joints:
Using poles can help distribute your body weight across four limbs instead of two, reducing the impact and strain on your knees, hips, and lower back, especially during descents. - Increased Power and Endurance:
Hiking poles engage your upper body muscles, allowing you to push off and propel yourself forward. This can help you maintain a consistent pace, increase your speed, and reduce fatigue. - Enhanced Rhythm and Pace:
The rhythmic motion of planting poles can help you establish and maintain a steady pace, which is particularly helpful on long hikes or when trying to maintain a specific speed. - Aid in Climbing and Descending:
Poles can provide extra traction and support when going uphill, and help control your descent when going downhill.
Usage Tips for Hiking Poles
- Adjust the Length:
Adjust the length of your poles to suit the terrain. As a general rule, your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle when holding the poles with tips on the ground. Shorten the poles when going uphill and lengthen them when going downhill. - Use the Straps:
Proper use of the wrist straps can help distribute the load across your arms and shoulders, and allow you to maintain a light grip on the handles. - Proper Pole Planting:
Plant your poles firmly on the ground, but don’t overdo it. The tips should grip the ground but not get stuck. Plant the poles at an angle, slightly behind and beside you, and push off as you move forward. - Coordinate Your Movements:
Ideally, your poles should move in coordination with your opposite legs. For example, as your right foot steps forward, your left pole should come forward, and vice versa. - Adjust the Grip:
When going uphill, hold the poles lower down, below the handles. When going downhill, hold them higher up, above the handles. This will help you maintain better control and leverage.
Check out this video by Chase Tucker aka Chase Mountains on how to use hiking poles
Hiking poles are a valuable tool that can enhance your hiking experience by providing stability, reducing impact on your joints, and engaging your upper body muscles. Remember to adjust the length of your poles according to the terrain, use the wrist straps, plant your poles properly, coordinate your movements, and adjust your grip as needed. With a bit of practice, you’ll find that hiking with poles becomes second nature, and you’ll wonder how you ever hiked without them!
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