Walking Poles and You!

Following our post on “Peak Performance” we thought it may be useful to look into the subject of walking poles. Walking poles, also known as trekking poles or hiking poles, offer a wide range of benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Walking poles, also known as trekking or hiking poles offer a wide range of benefits.

Here's a breakdown of their key advantages:

Reduced Joint Stress

• Shock Absorption: Walking poles help absorb the impact of each step, especially when going downhill. This significantly reduces stress on your knees, hips, and ankles. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with existing joint pain or arthritis.

• Weight Distribution: They distribute your body weight more evenly, taking pressure off your lower body.

• Improved Stability and Balance: Walking poles provide extra points of contact with the ground, increasing your stability on uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, and rocky trails. This reduces the risk of falls and injuries. They help you maintain your balance, especially when carrying a backpack or navigating challenging and slippery terrain.

Increased Power and Endurance

Walking poles allow you to engage your upper body, providing extra power and propulsion when climbing hills. This can help you conserve energy and reduce fatigue. Also by engaging your upper body, walking poles can increase your calorie expenditure, making your walks more effective for weight management.

Improved Posture

Using walking poles encourages an upright posture, which can help alleviate back pain and improve breathing.

Testing Ground Conditions

Walking poles can be used to test the stability of the ground, the depth of water, or the firmness of snow. They can be used to clear away branches, or other obstacles on the trail and by keeping your arms moving, they help to reduce swelling in the hands and arms.

Engage your upper body, and gain extra power and propulsion when climbing hills.