There are numerous benefits to walking poles, especially when enjoying a nature trail. Sometimes you need added balance and stability on in addition to your two legs, on uneven terrain.
A hiking or walking pole is an excellent way to give yourself a little more stability. Walking with two poles can provide even more stability and other workout benefits. Fitness walking poles, nordic walking poles, or Exerstrider poles are great for exercise on streets, sidewalks, and paths.
A pair of fitness walking poles allows you to burn more calories while feeling no greater exertion when walking on streets, sidewalks, and paths. Many come with a removable rubber tip for switching between hard and soft surfaces. Two sticks are better than one on the trail. Using a pair of hiking poles or trekking poles gives you balance and takes more stress off of the lower body joints. The grips and straps are designed so you can push down on them to assist yourself on the trail, but also for quick release if the pole gets stuck between rocks or roots.
Be sure to read any instructions that come with your poles to follow proper technique and use them correctly. Some even come with instructional videos. It can take practice until you are using them to the fullest advantage. For travelers and hikers, poles that collapse down to store or carry in your luggage or in your pack on the trail are very handy. A padded travel bag for air travel is a solution for single-length poles.
