How to walk with trekking poles on flat terrain?

While many hikers reserve their trekking poles for steep ascents or tricky descents, using them correctly on flat ground can significantly enhance your overall hiking efficiency, rhythm, and endurance. Proper technique on easy terrain establishes a foundation of good habits that pay dividends when the trail gets tough. Here’s how to master the art of walking with poles on flat trails.

1. Perfecting Your Pole Setup

The foundation of good technique starts with correct adjustment.

• Optimal Length: On flat terrain, your elbow should form a comfortable 90-degree angle when the pole tip is planted on the ground beside your foot. This allows for a natural arm swing and efficient power transfer.
• Wrist Straps are Key: Don’t just grab the handles. Slide your hand up through the strap from below and then grip the handle, allowing the strap to run between your thumb and index finger and across your palm. This lets you transfer energy through the strap without a tight, fatiguing grip, saving your hands for the long haul.

2. Mastering the Rhythmic Technique

The core principle of flat-ground pole use is establishing a smooth, natural rhythm.

• Opposite Arm, Opposite Leg: This is the golden rule. As your right foot steps forward, your left pole should swing forward and plant on the ground. As your left foot advances, your right pole moves. This contralateral movement mirrors your natural walking gait, promoting balance and coordination.
• The Planting Motion: Plant the pole tip at a slight backward angle, roughly level with the toe of your opposite foot. As your body moves forward, you push down and back on the strap, using the pole to propel yourself forward. You are not just placing the pole beside you; you are actively engaging your upper body to push off with each step.

3. The Significant Benefits on Easy Ground

You might wonder why poles are necessary on flat trails. The advantages are substantial:

• Increased Pace and Endurance: By engaging your arms, shoulders, and back, you distribute the workload across more muscle groups. This reduces fatigue in your legs, allowing you to maintain a faster pace for longer distances.
• Improved Rhythm and Cadence: The consistent motion of pole planting establishes a steady metronome-like rhythm for your hike, making your stride more efficient and controlled.
• Joint Preservation: Even on flat, hard-packed trails, each step sends impact forces through your knees, hips, and ankles. Poles absorb some of this shock, reducing cumulative joint stress over many miles.
• Enhanced Stability: Poles provide two additional points of contact with the ground, offering crucial stability on unexpected roots, rocks, or slippery surfaces like mud or wet boardwalks, preventing twists and falls.

4. Common Flat-Terrain Mistakes to Avoid

• Dragging the Poles: Letting the poles drag behind you eliminates all benefits. Focus on intentional planting and pushing.
• Planting Too Far Forward: Planting the pole far ahead of your body can disrupt your balance and rhythm. The plant point should be close to your body.
• Breaking Rhythm: Avoid the temptation to stop using the poles. Consistency is key to reaping the endurance rewards.

By integrating your trekking poles into your flat-walking technique, you transform them from occasional aids into fundamental tools for a stronger, more efficient, and more enjoyable hiking experience.