Walking poles – should I use them?

Walking poles – should I use them?

Posted on January 6, 2014

We get lots of people ask should I use walking poles on a walk? My answer is always yes! BUT, only if you learn how to use them.

Benefits to using walking poles

There are lots of benefits to using walking poles. Not only do they give you more stability and prevent falls, used properly they can reduce the wear and tear on your joints as well as improve your posture (which helps protect your back).

For those who are walking for weight loss/management, walking poles can increase the amount of calories you burn (source) by as much as 20%! This is because you are using muscles in your arms, chest and upper back rather than just below the belt.

When to use walking poles

Almost always. Great uphill, essential down hill, fantastic on the beach and good for river crossings. The only situation where I would not recommend them is when you need to use your hands i.e. going up or down on very rocky terrain or if you have problems with your shoulders.

How to use walking poles 

First thing is to get the right grip. It is easy but counter intuitive. See the picture on the left.

Okay, now when you start to walk I recommend to people to imagine you are cross country skiing. You want to feel like you are propelling yourself forwards.

When you left leg is forward, your right pole should be forward and vice versa.

Take a look at the picture on the right. Do you see the angle that the poles are on? This is the most important aspect and the thing that most people get wrong. If your poles are vertical, then they are not going to be able to propel you forward. By catching the ground behind your hip, you can push yourself in a forward motion.

It is really easy and you will instantly know when your technique is correct as it will feel much easier.

What Next?

Before you buy a pair of walking poles, you need to consider where you are going to use them and what you want them for. If you are intending to take them on airplanes then there are lots of poles which either collapse or are telescopic. This is great for avoiding excess baggage! If you want walking poles for weight loss/management then don’t be put off by the heavier but better quality poles.
In general, you get what you pay for.

 

I hope you enjoyed this post. Thank you to Helinox for the use of the graphics. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

Happy trails!