Do You Really Know How to Use Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are undoubtedly a standard equipment today of hikers, trekkers, climbers, snowshoes and backpackers. Why? Owing to the basic reason that they offer, the much required stability and support to the user. This is a fact known to almost everyone; however what is not known is the fact that different features in trekking poles offer different advantages knowing which helps in finding the right ‘how to use trekking poles’ way.    

Before dwelling into the right ways of using the trekking poles, let us first shed some light on the reasons of why you should be using a trekking pole at all?

Why Use Trekking Poles?

There are several advantages of using a trekking pole that has been proven through several researches and studies. According to one study, use of trekking poles reduces the force of compression tolerated by your knees by almost 25%. This means your body will be saved from tons of weight that it would have to bear otherwise. Another study states that use of trekking poles almost eliminates the probability of muscles damage during an entire mountain trekking day. 

Other advantages include

•       Takes away stress from the joints and legs in downwards trekking, and transfer it on the upper parts of the body.

•   Improves footing and balance through offering more contact points on the ground.

•   In ascending or uphill trekking, poles transfer the weight to the shoulders, arms and hands, decreasing the fatigue on the legs. Also it offers thrust which helps in ascending.

•   Poles make crossing difficult sections a lot easier.

•      A walking rhythm is achieved through use of poles which facilitates walking for longer.

•       Trekking poles are also helpful in tackling things that come in the way such as vegetation, bushes and even for probing snow.

 How to Use Trekking Poles Correctly

How to use trekking poles you ask? Through following some simple rules you can effectively not only use poles but also derive the best advantage out of them. The very first step is to use the strap properly and adjust the length of the pole according to your requirement. Firstly open the strap and adjust the size so that your hand can enter (in an open hand position). Next grab the handle, this will allow you to grasp not only the handle but the strap at well offering more versatility and support.

Next is the task of setting the right length of your trekking pole. Although commonly trekkers set the height of poles from 115 cm to 125 cm, however it depends on the individual comfort of the trekker. Normally the height of the pole should be at the height where your pole touches the ground straight and your arm is that a 90° angle.

Some people may also like their poles to be higher or lower, so check different lengths until you find the one that you are comfortable with and which helps in getting you through different terrain types.

On normal terrains poles can contribute considerably through offering stride and walking pace. In this condition your poles should move forward in an angle that points the handle towards your back. This will drive you even further on with each step. Remember in this position you should stride along using your shoulders and not only your elbows.

On uneven, steep or rough terrains, your pole will be needed to offer you more support instead of propulsion and so in this situation, the pole should be used straight. In an upright or straight position, your pole will offer a rapid and safer descent on forward.  Now you know how to use trekking poles!