With trekking poles, you also get to maintain proper forward momentum even on uneven terrains, making it easy for you to move over and around various obstacles such as slippery rocks, logs, streams, river crossings, etc. and also enhancing your balance with heavy loads on your back.
Back problem is another common issue faced by many hikers. When we walk, we naturally tend to lean forward and this is most likely to continue over time. Add to it the weight of your backpack and leaning forward is something you cannot avoid while trekking. This also adds additional weight to your spine. As a result, you could start feeling pain, which can eventually lead to injuries to your back, and to your shoulders and neck as well.
Since trekking poles can help by improving your stability, they can further help by making your posture straight during movement. With the right trekking poles, the overall load you bear gets evenly distributed across your body, making movement as well as breathing easier and more efficient. As a matter of fact, trekking poles are also known to be an amazing tool for people with existing conditions like arthritis, enabling them to enjoy hiking without having to worry about their pain and the need to stop frequently.
Related: 10 Training Tips For Hikers With Back Pain
#4 More power
When you're struggling to make forward progress up a steep hill, trekking poles can be your best friend. Hiking poles are a great way to help you make your uphill hikes less difficult, especially when carrying a backpack or camera. They give the holder an extra advantage that allows them to move faster and climb higher than those without these assistance devices! They provide extra power when trekking through rough terrain, rugged vegetation, or deep snow- enabling the hiker to go faster without getting tired!
#5 You'll be able to cover more ground
Do you prefer to hike at a fast pace? If so, you'll be happy to know that trekking poles can help you cover more ground in less time! They provide extra power and stability, which means you can hike faster and for longer periods of time without getting tired. This is great news for those who like to hike long distances or explore new terrain! So if you're looking to explore more of the great outdoors, be sure to bring along your trusty trekking poles!
#6 They can be used in all seasons
Trekking poles are versatile pieces of equipment that can be used in all seasons and in any weather condition. Many hikers consider trekking poles essential gear, no matter what time of year they're hiking. But some people think that trekking poles are only necessary during the summer months when trails are dry and there's no need for extra stability on tricky terrain. In reality, using trekking poles during winter can be extremely helpful in a number of ways.
By using trekking poles in winter, you can keep your balance on icy and snowy surfaces and avoid potential falls. Trekking poles can be a life-saving tool during monsoon season. Not only do they help you stay balanced on wet and slippery surfaces, but they can also be used to brace yourself against strong winds. And in the fall, they provide extra stability on slippery leaves.
#7 They can help you find your way
Trekking poles can be used for more than just walking- they can also be used to help you find your way! If you're ever lost on a hike, you can use your trekking poles to mark your trail. This will help you find your way back if you get lost. You can also use your trekking poles to create a makeshift shelter in an emergency situation. So, if you're looking for a versatile piece of equipment that can help you in a variety of situations, look no further than the trusty trekking pole!
#8 Enhances Fitness
It has been found that trekking poles can help with muscle building, since the use of poles engages the muscles in your upper body, including your triceps, biceps, pectorals, and side muscles, which are otherwise not frequently used. These muscles get strengthened and toned when you use trekking poles on a regular basis. Also, along with strengthening the muscles in your upper body, the whole activity also becomes a full body workout, leaving your body with amazing aerobic benefits.
As a matter of fact, walking is a great exercise known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This happens because of increased blood circulation; but, when you use trekking poles, this is further increased by about 40%, thus leaving you with more energy and endurance.
Trekking poles are an excellent choice for people who otherwise are not comfortable with or find it hard to cope with high impact workouts, but really wish to improve their health and fitness. Use of trekking poles give you the same level of benefits, without the need for you to be in any specific fitness level.
#9 They can be used as a self-defense tool
In addition to being a great hiking companion, trekking poles can also be used as a self-defense tool. If you find yourself in a dangerous situation while on a hike, you can use your trekking poles to defend yourself. They can be used to strike an attacker or to create distance between you and an assailant. You can also use your trekking poles to block blows or punches. Trekking poles can be a great addition to your self-defense arsenal, so don't leave home without them!
#10 Helpful during river crossings
Trekking poles can also be helpful during river crossings. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to cross a river, you can use your trekking poles to help you stay balanced. You can also use them to probe the depth of the water and to test for any hidden obstacles beneath the surface. Trekking poles can give you the extra stability and support you need to safely cross a river, so don't forget to bring them along on your next adventure!
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! These are the top benefits of trekking poles for hikers and backpackers. But remember, these benefits can be enjoyed only when you learn the proper techniques to use the trekking poles. With constant use of trekking poles, you gain more skills and experience that can help you eliminate the risk of getting injured during all your future trails, enabling you to enjoy the outdoor adventure with complete peace of mind.
Do you use trekking poles? What benefits have you found from using them? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our website for all of your hiking needs! We have a great selection of trekking poles, as well as other essential outdoor gear.
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