How To Use Walking Poles
If you have never used walking poles before and aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Our quick guide to using walking poles will walk you through all the basics and help you get to grips with one of the most valuable pieces of walking equipment you will ever own. They can ease the impact on your legs, soaking up to 10% of your body weight with each step. If you want a practical demonstration of just how useful they can be, stand on a pair of scales without poles. Next, stand on scales with poles and push down gently on both. The weight differential will be surprisingly large.
Single or double?
The first question to ask yourself is whether you want to use a single walking pole or two. The former is often referred to as a walking staff and is not as supportive as two-poles. Consequently, it is better suited to flat terrain when not carrying a weighty backpack. The two-pole setup is the more popular option on longer walks and challenging terrain.
Finding the right length
Next up, you need to get the right length. Every manufacturer produces a sizing chart, so always reference that information before purchasing. Generally, the following guidelines are a good place to start:
- • Under 5 ft. – 110 cm pole length
- • 5 ft. to 5 ft. 5 in. – 120 cm pole length
- • 5 ft. 5 in. to 6 ft. – 130 cm pole length
- • Above 6 ft. – 140 cm pole length
When walking, with the tip of the pole touching the ground by your foot, you want your arm to make a 90-degree bend at the elbow and your forearm parallel to the ground. You can adjust this as you go, extending the pole by 5-10 cm on long downhill sections and shortening by 5-10 cm on long uphill sections.
Get a grip
To hold the pole, pass your hand up through the loop from underneath and then clasp the grip. You don’t want the loop to be too tight around the wrist. Adjust as you go until you feel comfortable. The hoop should hang freely from your wrist when dropped and not wrap around the thumb.
Alternating leg and pole
Most people immediately fall into a natural rhythm when using walking poles. But it doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Start with smaller steps and stay relaxed. Your arms can tire quickly if you over-extend them when you’re first using the poles. You should move opposite poles and legs at the same time. For instance, your left arm and pole go forward at the same time as your right leg.
This replicates your natural stride. When you walk without poles, your left arm swings forward as your right leg steps forward to help maintain balance. If you’re struggling, try not to overthink things. It will help make the process more natural.
Know when to stow your poles
As you become more experienced, you will learn when to use and when to stow your poles. For instance, poles are often a big help when crossing a river or stream. However, you probably want to stow them when scrambling or the terrain gets steeper, as this will allow you to use your hands for balance if necessary.
Look after your poles and they will look after you
If you want your poles to last, you need to take good care of them. It’s important not to overextend any of the sections, as this may result in weaknesses and damage the poles. During use, you should also extend each of the sections to approximately the same length.
When not in use, clean and dry your poles before you store them. This will prevent rusting and ensure the segments don’t seize and jam. Finally, keep the plastic cap on the poles’ metal spikes when walking over rocks, concrete and other hard surfaces. It will make the spikes last longer and prevent you from leaving marks or damaging the landscape around you. Just remember to take the cap off again when you hit a muddy section. You don’t want to lose your caps to a sticky trail!
Put your walking poles to good use
If you are looking for an opportunity to use your walking poles in beautiful surroundings and as part of a friendly and supportive group, check out our guided walks on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). They are a great way to get to know Wales’ highest mountain and most iconic natural landmark.