Hiking with sticks is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise. Hiking with poles can also help you improve your balance and coordination.
If you are new to traveling, or if you are looking for a new challenge, consider hiking with sticks. In this blog post, we will discuss why hiking with sticks is a great idea, how to choose the right sticks for hiking, and how to use them properly while hiking.
Why Hiking With Sticks Is a Great Idea
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The Many Benefits of Hiking With Poles
There are many reasons why hiking with sticks a great idea is. For one, it can help increase your speed and stamina on hikes. It can also help reduce the impact on your joints, which is especially important if you have any preexisting conditions. Additionally, hiking with sticks can help you maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Finally, hiking with sticks can simply make the hike more enjoyable by giving you something to lean on during rest breaks!
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How to Choose the Right Sticks for Hiking
Factors to Consider When Choosing Trekking Poles
When choosing hiking sticks, there are a few factors you will want to take into account in order to make sure you get the best possible experience while out on the trail. The first thing to consider is the material the stick is made of. Hiking sticks can be made from a variety of materials, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, or even wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages that you will want to weigh before making your decision.
Aluminum hiking sticks are going to be the lightest option, which can be a big advantage if you are carrying a lot of gear with you on your hike. They are also typically very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. However, they are not as sturdy as some of the other options, so if you are planning on doing any off-trail hiking or bushwhacking, they may not be the best choice for you.
Carbon fiber hiking sticks are going to be more expensive than aluminum ones, but they offer a lot of advantages in terms of weight and durability. Carbon fiber is one of the strongest materials out there, so these sticks can take a beating without breaking. They are also very lightweight, making them ideal for long hikes where every ounce counts. The only downside is that they are not as flexible as some other materials, so if you do find yourself in a situation where you need to use them for balance or traction (such as crossing a stream), they may not perform as well as other options.
Wooden hiking sticks offer the most traditional look and feel, and can actually be quite stylish in addition to being functional. They are also very strong and durable, able to withstand a lot of abuse without breaking. However, they are heavier than both aluminum and carbon fiber sticks, so if weight is a big concern for you then wooden sticks may not be the best choice.
Once you have decided on the material for your stick, the next thing to consider is the size. Hiking sticks come in a variety of lengths, so it is important to choose one that will fit your height properly. If the stick is too short or too tall, it will be uncomfortable to use and could potentially cause injury if used incorrectly. Most manufacturers will list recommended heights for their products, so make sure to consult this before making your purchase.
The last thing to consider when choosing trekking poles is what type of grip you prefer. There are two main types of grips available: straight and contoured. Straight grips are just that – straight – while contoured grips have an ergonomic design that fits more comfortably in your hand. There isn’t necessarily one type that is better than the other; it really comes down to personal preference. With all these factors in mind, choosing the right hiking stick for you should be relatively easy. Just make sure to do your research ahead of time so you know what features are important to you!
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How to Use Walking Sticks While Hiking
The Proper Way to Use Hiking Sticks While Hiking
- When using hiking poles while hiking, it is important to hold them correctly and use them properly. Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Hold the sticks in your hands with the handles pointing down and the tips pointing up.
- Keep your elbows close to your sides and bend your arms slightly at the elbows.
- Swing your arms forward as you walk, using the sticks for balance and stability.
- Use the sticks to help you climb uphill by planting them in front of you and pushing off with them.
- Use the sticks to help you descend downhill by planting them behind you and braking with them.
- Be careful not to swing the sticks too widely or hit people or objects with them.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors, walking with sticks is a great option. Not only is it a great workout, but it also has many other benefits.
When choosing sticks for hiking, be sure to consider the weight, length, and material. You’ll also want to think about how you’ll be using them while hiking. For example, if you’re planning on doing a lot of climbing, you’ll want to choose sticks that are lightweight and have good gripping power.
Once you have your sticks, it’s important to learn how to use them properly. When trekking with sticks, always hold them in front of you so that they can help support your bodyweight. Additionally, be sure to plant them firmly into the ground when going up or down hills. With a little practice, using walking sticks will become second nature and will help make your hikes even more enjoyable.
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Arthur Lewis is a hardcore hiker, traveler, and adventure seeker. He is a blogger and writer for “Hiking Mystery,” and he lives in New York City with his pet dog, Chipi.
He is very fond of the outdoors and has visited many countries, including Iceland, Portugal, Brazil, and Costa Rica. He also loves to explore nature by means of hiking, cycling, and kayaking. He is an expert on travel, and he helps other people find the best way to travel by providing information about their options.