Many people are not open to the idea of using trekking poles because they think of them as an impractical tool. As a matter of fact, majority of the hikers can get along just fine without them. Trekking poles will provide you with the much needed support and stability during your hiking adventure. That is why more and more people are now opting to use them.
However, you have to know how to use this tool correctly. So, How To Use Trekking Poles? we will help you to learn through this article. I noticed that some people do not really know how to use the trekking poles the right way. For this reason, I have provided tips to help you learn and maximize your experience. Also, you will be at a better position to reap all the benefits that come with using the hiking poles.
How To Use Trekking Poles? Setting Up
This is a simple step that involves adjusting the height of the hiking poles to the correct height. Make sure you get a comfortable height. Otherwise, they will be of little or no help to you. Keep in mind; the trekking poles often act as another extra pair of legs to allow you hike better, faster and longer. If you are not able to achieve this then it may be a clear indication of poor use of the equipment.
In order to extend the poles to a certain height, you simply have to flip open the locking handle. Afterwards you can now pull out the pole sectioned inside. Lock it back in by flipping the locking tab shut and make sure to tighten the pole through turning the knob in a clockwise manner.
Adjusting The Wrist Strap
The truth is a good number of people have no idea on how to use the wrist strap. As a matter of fact, people do not really take them seriously yet they are a crucial part of correctly using the trekking poles. Your hike is going to be so much better and enjoyable if you managed to use the wrist straps the right way.
On the other hand, wrong use results in aching hands and in the worst case scenario a sprained wrist. I bet this is not something that you want to experience. The real question is how do you make sure that you are using the wrist straps the correct way? When adjusting the length of the strap, ensure that you have pulled the tension block out.
This exposes the loose end to allow you tighten the strap or loosen it to achieve the desired effect. When you get the right size for you, proceed to push the tension block back in position.If you want to confirm if you have adjusted the wrist strap well, open the strap to a size that you can pass your hand through.
Make sure it’s comfortable and not so loose. Pass the hand through the loop and grip onto the handle. This way the strap will cross through the palm and wrap underneath the thumb. Remember that using the strap in this way will greatly help you maintain a firm grip and control over the pole. You won’t have trouble navigating slippery terrain.
Adjusting The Pole Length
I had already mentioned this earlier that you have to ensure the trekking pole is of correct height in order to get desirable results. Adjust the poles in such a way that the elbow will be at a 90 degree angle. This way you don’t end up tiring your arms. Furthermore, check if the number on the upper segment matches with the one on the lower segment of the pole.
Tightening The Trekking Poles
This is a simple step and all you have to do is open the clasps and make some adjustments on the screw until you achieve the needed tension. Test if you have tightened the bolt enough. To do this, close the clasps and try to put your weight on the pole. It should support your body weight without sliding. Keep in mind, twisting the screw clockwise will tighten it while anticlockwise will loosen it.
Effective Walking Techniques
There are several ways to use the trekking poles effectively. One thing you have to avoid is bending the elbows. Instead only slightly bend the arms and propel your body forward using the shoulders. Another mistake is tightly gripping onto the poles. This will definitely put a strain on your hand and wrist. The best thing to do is to maintain a loose and relaxed grip.
In the case where you are walking on sketchy and uneven terrains make sure you use the baskets placed on the poles. This is meant to give you much better stability. Use the rubber ferrules on ground that you feel the carbide tips will skid across and cause you to slip.
Walking Downhill
For long descents, the trekking pole is supposed to be a bit longer. Place the poles in front of you so as to make it easier and faster to go downhill. You can opt to make you stride a little shorter so that there is less stress on the knee joints. Another useful technique is to adjust the poles in such a way that one is longer than the other. This can greatly help when you are traversing a zigzag trail.
Walking Uphill
When you reach the steep slopes, slightly shorten the poles. Don’t make the mistake of using the poles to propel yourself up the hill. Instead they should be a tool to help you push off. With that said, keep the poles closer to your body rather than at the front of your lead foot.
Moving The Trekking Pole Forward
You might that that you know how to do this but a few tips can help increase efficiency. Basically, when you move the left foot forward the right, the right hand also swings forward. The same goes for the right foot. This principle also applies on the trekking poles. For instance, the hiking poles will move forward when the opposite legs does. Do not attempt to alter this pattern.