Long Distance Walking with Poles
Whether you’re a seasoned walker or a total novice there are many benefits to walking with poles.
Walking with poles, also known as trekking poles, can significantly enhance your hiking experience. Whether you’re walking on the South West Coast Path, rugged trails, moorland paths, or park routes, understanding how to use these versatile tools can make your hikes more enjoyable and less strenuous.
Walking with poles is not just a trend; they offer real benefits that can improve your hiking experience.
Why Use Walking Poles?
- Protect Your Knees: Poles reduce the impact on your knees, especially on downhill sections. This can help prevent knee pain and protect your joints over time.
- Boost Climbing Speed: By using your arms for propulsion, poles make it easier to climb hills. This extra support can help you reach the top more quickly and with less effort.
- Strengthen Your Upper Body: Using walking poles engages your arms and shoulders, giving you a full-body workout. You might feel this extra effort in your triceps and shoulders initially, but it’s a great way to build upper body strength.
- Improve Stability: Walking poles provide additional points of contact with the ground, enhancing your balance on slippery or uneven terrain. This is especially useful on icy paths or when crossing streams.
- Aid in Photography: Poles can double as a monopod for stabilizing your camera, which is handy for capturing clear shots in low light or at a distance.
- Modern Design Features: Today’s walking poles come with ergonomic handles, spring-loaded tips, and lightweight, collapsible designs, making them easy to use and transport.
- Stream and River Crossings: Poles offer support and balance when crossing streams or shallow rivers, helping you navigate safely.
- Enhance Posture: Walking with poles can help maintain an upright posture, making your walks more comfortable and efficient.
Tips for Using Walking Poles
To get the most out of walking with poles, keep these tips in mind:
- Adjust for Terrain:
- Uphill: Shorten the poles to keep your arms at a comfortable height and maximize leverage.
- Downhill: Extend the poles to improve stability and reduce knee strain.
- Utilize Wrist Straps:
- Wrist straps help distribute pressure and prevent the poles from slipping. This additional support is useful during climbs and on challenging terrain.
- Test Water Depth:
- Use the poles to gauge water depth when crossing streams. They provide stability and help you avoid sudden drops.
- Choose Comfort and Fit:
- Look for poles with rubber-padded handles for added comfort. Ensure they are adjustable to fit your height and walking style.
- Consider Storage:
- Folding or collapsible poles are ideal for easy storage and transport when not in use.
- Protect the Environment:
- Use poles with rubber tips to minimize damage to trails and protect the environment.
- Relax Your Grip:
- Avoid gripping the poles too tightly to prevent hand and wrist fatigue. Your grip will naturally tighten when you need extra stability.
Choosing the Right Poles
When selecting poles, consider these factors:
- Explore Different Types:
- Evaluate various poles to find the best fit for your needs. Look at features such as material, weight, and adjustability.
- Consult Guides:
- For more information on choosing and using walking poles, check resources like Trespass’s ‘How to Use Walking Poles‘ guide.
- Pack Wisely:
- For additional gear recommendations, see our article on ‘What to Pack for Your Walking Holiday.‘
How to use the walking poles
Keep your elbows close to your sides as you walk and use the poles. With each step, flick the opposite side’s pole forward. This is a small upward motion of the forearm or a slight wrist flick. If you have a loose grip, it will cause the pole to pivot forward correctly.
Understanding and utilizing walking poles can greatly enhance your hiking experience, making your adventures more enjoyable and less taxing on your body.
“Leave the road. Take the trails.” – Pythagoras