Here are 3 reasons Why you should be using poles when walking.

Walking poles are an often-forgotten key piece of walking equipment. Whether you are climbing Ben Nevis or strolling around a reservoir, poles can make a day out walking a breeze.

1. Stability

Walking poles provide extra stability on the trail. On loose or unsteady ground, poles provide an extra safety barrier to prevent you from ending up on your backside.

They are especially valuable on longer hikes when fatigue sets in, acting as guides and aiding with balance when you are exhausted on the trail.

2. Walk further for longer

Walking poles take pressure off your knees, ankles and lower back, meaning you can go further and reduce your chance of injury. They do this by distributing weight onto your upper body, relieving pressure through the knees.

Poles also absorb impact with each stride, acting like two extra legs cushioning your step. They also allow you to slow down more efficiently by pushing into the ground, preventing any harsh stops or sharp turns.

3. Rhythm

Poles encourage better rhythm when walking, improving your cadence and creating a more consistent stride. This helps with energy management and gives your hands something to do other than swing by your side.

Over time, with better technique, you can use poles to propel yourself forward but, developing natural arm-leg coordination is key to making this effective.

In conclusion, Walking poles are a key piece of equipment as they can make your life a ton easier on any walk.