How to Use Trekking Poles When Hiking

A trekking pole is a light-weight, adjustable support tool that is used to save energy and add stability on all types of terrain. Also known as yuppie poles, these items were at first widely snubbed in the hiking world, but are now commonly used on the trail. Here are a few key steps to get started with yours.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Adjust the length. While standing up straight with shoulders relaxed, the top of your trekking poles should be 2 to 3 inches below your armpit. Use a twisting motion to unlock and re-lock the intersecting portions on each pole to find the proper height.

2. Use your wrist straps. Insert your hand from underneath and keep a relaxed hold on the grip. Use your other hand to adjust the strap so that it is snug but not tight.

3. Preserve energy on flat terrain. Bend your arms at a 90-degree angle and maintain an upright posture. Walk normally, but as you place one foot in front of the other, extend the opposite arm and plant your pole.

4. Maximize your balance uphill. As you step forward with one leg, plant your pole with the opposite arm. If the terrain is exceptionally difficult, use the same leg as your pole plant side to give yourself added support.

5. Maintain stability on declines. As before, continue using the opposite hand and leg to achieve balance. To add stability, however, swing your pole further in front of you in order to compensate for steeply declining terrain.

6. Traverse comfortably. When hiking through hillsides, overcome the awkwardness by shortening the pole that is located on the side with an incline. If it's more comfortable, you can also lengthen the other one to accommodate for the uneven terrain.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find adjusting your poles to be a hassle, have them customized according to your height.
• When planting the pole on flat terrain, it should be about the same distance ahead of your body as the opposite foot.
• For steeper inclines, it may be more comfortable to shorten the length of your trekking poles and then re-adjust them with the changing terrain.
• On a decline, you can alleviate pressure on your knees by leaning forward and allowing your poles to support some of your body weight.
• While hiking, use your poles creatively to push spider webs out of the way in front of you or, if necessary, for self defense.

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