Hiking poles are used by many people to make hiking more enjoyable. They reduce impact on the joints and muscles of the lower body and allow the hiker to cover more ground with less effort. Hiking poles can enable people with balance problems to enjoy the trails without worrying about falling. Hiking poles also decrease the problem many hikers have with their hands swelling during a hike. Holding the hiking poles places the hands above the heart, improving circulation and preventing swelling.
Technique is important when using hiking poles
Step 1
Determine the right length. Most hiking poles are adjustable. To find the perfect fit for you, extend the poles to their maximum length. While standing straight but relaxed, place one of the poles beside your body. The ideal height should be between 2 and 3 inches below your armpit. After adjusting one pole to a comfortable length, use it as a guide to adjust the other.
Step 2
Practice on level ground. When you begin using hiking poles, the motion may feel unnatural. The additional motion of the arms and shoulders may tax your endurance until you become accustomed to it. When walking on level ground, the tips of the poles should remain behind you slightly as you hike. As your left leg travels forward, your left arm, and pole, will move back. The tip of the pole should hit the ground slightly behind the spot where your heel leaves the ground. This sounds complicated, but after some practice it will become second nature.
Step 3
Learn uphill hiking techniques. Using hiking poles for uphill climbs saves energy and makes the climb more enjoyable. Traveling up a moderate incline is not much different than traveling on level ground. As the hills get steeper, move the poles in front of your body and use them to help pull you up the hill.
Step 4
Get comfortable going downhill. Hiking poles are a great tool for downhill hiking. Keep the tips slightly in front of the body on your way down the hill and use them to absorb some of the jarring that affects your knees when you try to control your pace. On particularly steep parts of the trail, plant one of the hiking poles in the ground before each step to steady your foot.
Step 5
Use hiking poles on different terrains. Hiking poles allow you to more easily cross streams and negotiate narrow trails and difficult conditions such as mud or loose rock. These are the types of conditions that hiking poles are particularly well suited for, but each time you experience a new situation, proceed carefully until you are comfortable that you can navigate the trail with your hiking poles.
Tips and Warnings
- Hiking poles can be damaging to the environment. Think carefully about using them in degraded trail areas. If the trail is crowded, quit using your poles and hold them close to your body. This gives others room to get around you on the trail and prevents them from tripping over your poles.
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