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What are the benefits of trekking poles for hikers?

June 10, 2022

benefits of trekking poles

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using trekking poles and dispel any myths that may be associated with them.

Many people looking to get into trekking, hiking, or backpacking may be wondering if they need trekking poles. The answer is—yes! In fact, many experienced hikers and backpackers wouldn’t hit the trail without them. Trekking poles provide a range of benefits for hikers of all ages and experience levels. A good pair can help you navigate rough terrain, conserve energy while hiking, and prevent injuries. If you are thinking about purchasing a set of trekking poles, keep reading to find out why they might be the perfect addition to your outdoor gear!

Related: How to clean and maintain your trekking poles?

Let's take a closer look at the major benefits of using trekking poles!

#1 Reduces Impact On Joints

benefits of trekking poles

One of the most obvious benefits of trekking poles is their ability to reduce the stress or impact imposed on your muscles and joints. Repetitive stress injuries are more common during treks; when you use trekking poles, the damages and pain caused by these injuries are prevented.

When you hike all day, even without a heavy backpack, a whole lot of stress is planted on your hips, knees, and ankles. You will be able to feel this around your knees especially during steep ascents and descents. Trekking poles allow your shoulder and arm muscles to take up some of the weight and thus reduce this strain in your lower body. This means that the risk of wear and injury to your lower body is reduced, and it can be extremely beneficial even on level terrains.

If you're looking for a new way to improve your trekking or hiking experience, consider using our TREK-Z 2.0 Trekking Poles.

Related: 5 Tips To Avoid Knee Pain While Hiking

#2 Improves Stability

benefits of trekking poles

Occasional slips and falls are an inevitable part of trekking. Trekking poles, with their two added points of contact with the terrain, essentially act as two extra legs in your body, providing you with greater stability. As a result, your chances of slipping are less, which in turn reduces the risks of falls as well.

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.

Related: How to use trekking poles for stability?

#3 Better Posture

benefits of trekking poles

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

benefits of trekking poles

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

benefits of trekking poles

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

benefits of trekking poles

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

benefits of trekking poles

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

benefits of trekking poles

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

benefits of trekking poles while hiking

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 benefits

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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