There are different types of hikers everywhere. Some like to be thoroughly prepared whereas some hikers are too proud to use any equipment that makes them dependant. One such equipment is the trekking poles. Trekking or walking poles are useful in reducing the stress that hikers feel on their knees, legs, back, and feet. These poles would help you stay in power and reach the destination quicker.

How to Set up the Trekking Poles

Before learning the right ways to use the trekking poles, it is important to know its set-up process.

  1. Length of the pole – The first step is to adjust the length of poles that suit your height for trekking and hiking on the ground. This would become the default length for every trip. You can simply adjust the height according to the type of ground.
  2. Pole straps – Straps are the little things that are wrapped around your hand for stability. It is important to set up these straps correctly and safely. Insert your hand through the pole strap from underneath and hold onto the top handle. You can easily adjust the length of these straps.
  3. Pole tip covers – Make sure that the tip cover of your trekking pole is removed before you start the trip. If you try to do it after starting the hike, it would become really difficult for you.

Use the Trekking Poles Correctly

Once you have understood the process of setting up the trekking poles, you are ready to learn more. Let’s see what is the right way to use the trekking poles and avoid any unnecessary injury or slip-offs.

  1. Alternate leg method – One of the easiest and most effective ways of using the walking poles is asymmetrical style. Here all you have to do is place one pole down and step forward with the alternative leg and vice versa. This method may not seem to be working at first, but as you take a thousand more steps, the weight would be evenly distributed and the trek would feel easy.
  2. Freestyle method – Just like the dance, this trekking pole walk lets you casually stroll for some time. Let the pole movement come naturally to you and use them as much as you like. If you don’t feel like using them, simply fold and put them inside the bag for some time.
  3. Double Pole method – This style is perfect to lean your entire weight on the steep ground or uneven terrain. Here you need to place both the poles on the ground at the same time in these three positions –
  • Whenever there is instability on the ground
  • Close to your front foot to move forward
  • In front to move upward and downward

Trekking Pole use for Upward and Downward Hiking

  1. Upward hill movement – The first thing you should do is shorten your poles’ height for the perfect elbow length. If you forget to do that, the pressure would reach your shoulders. The best method is double poling here.
  2. Downward hill movement – Here, the length of your trekking poles has to be increased for greater stability. Don’t hold the grip in your regular position, rather place the pole top in your palms and wrap your fingers and thumb around as well as under it. Here you can use the freestyle or double pole method.

Now that you know how to set up and use your hiking poles, use them once. They would help you achieve great height with comparatively lower fatigue.