Trekking Pole Technique | How to Use and Improve your Hiking Stamina with Leki, by Tom's Outdoors Gear Guide on YouTube. 3 min 28 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 28 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Stand on flat ground and adjust each pole so the top of the grip sits at about hip height. On most poles the marked length is roughly your height minus 50 cm.
For steep climbs, shorten both poles by a few centimetres. For steep descents, lengthen them a few centimetres so you can plant them ahead of you.
Slide your hand up through the wrist strap from below. The strap should sit across the base of your palm, not around your wrist.
Grip the handle lightly with the strap taking the weight. Your hand should rest on top of the grip, not squeeze it.
Walk normally and plant the left pole as your right foot lands, then the right pole as your left foot lands. This opposite-arm swing keeps your rhythm natural.
On descents, reach the poles further ahead and let them take some of the load as you step down. Keep your steps short and steady.
On flat ground, swing the poles with your arms and tap them lightly beside each step. They should not drag behind you.
Check the length again after a few minutes of walking. Readjust if your shoulders feel hunched or your arms feel stretched.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the wrist strap flat against your palm so the pole weight goes through your arm, not your fingers.
Shorten the poles on climbs and lengthen them on descents rather than changing your posture.
Plant the pole tip before you shift your weight onto that leg for better balance.
Check that the pole sections are locked tight before you lean on them.
Questions
How do I know the right pole length?
Stand on flat ground with the pole tip on the floor. The top of the grip should sit around hip height, and your elbow should bend about 90 degrees when you hold it.
Should I use one pole or two?
Two poles give you the most balance and take the most load off your legs. One pole is fine on gentle ground or if you need a free hand.
Do trekking poles help on descents?
Yes. Lengthening the poles and planting them ahead of you takes some weight off your knees and helps you keep your balance on steep or loose ground.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
