What do you associate with trail running? Lighter shoes, breathable clothing and possibly a hydration pack? Trail running trekking poles are one item of equipment that usually goes under the radar but can potentially take your trail game to the next level. Yep, those bendable poles that hikers rave about can be a game changer to a runner, as well, especially on technical terrain, long distance, and steep climbs.

Whether you have had trouble trying to hike up a steep hill or you were unsteady during rocky downhills, trekking poles may well become your new best friend. Let’s break down why these poles deserve a spot in your pack, how to use them, and whether they’re right for your runs.

Why Use Trail Running Trekking Poles?

Trail running is not jogging on dirt, it’s a total body exercise that takes place on unreliable grounds. The trekking poles do not provide additional stability only, but they also serve to distribute the pressure exerted by your legs to the upper body, making you feel less tired and also providing a boost when you need it the most.

Here are some key benefits:

• Improved Stability: Pole comes in handy when the trail becomes technical by keeping you steady on loose surfaces of rocks, slippery roots or along small ridges. It means less slips and falls.
• Reduced Leg Fatigue: The poles use your arms and shoulders to reduce the load on your quads and knees, and you will have a longer distance and steeper pitches on ultra distances.
• Enhanced Climbing Power: Poles let you push off and propel yourself upward, turning steep climbs from a grind into a more manageable effort.
• Better Posture and Reduced Impact: Poles help in correcting posture and in some cases may reduce the impact on joints going down hill to save knees and hips.

When to Use Trekking Poles on the Trail

Not every trail run calls for poles. They shine brightest in these situations:

• Long Ultra-Distance Runs: When miles add up, the extra upper body support helps save your legs.
• Mountainous or Steep Terrain: Poles give you that extra push on climbs and help with balance on descents.
• Technical Trails: Rooty, rocky, or slippery trails are safer with poles to stabilize each step.
• Mixed Terrain Runs: If your run includes off-road, rocky paths, and creek crossings, trekking poles can help you maintain momentum and keep your footing.

If your run is a short, smooth trail or flat terrain, poles might just slow you down. But when the route gets tough, they can be a huge advantage.

How to Use Trekking Poles Efficiently

Using trekking poles effectively takes a little practice. Here are some quick tips to get you started:

• Adjust the Length Right: The right alignment of the length of your poles is when your elbows are bent at an angle of about 90 degrees. Narrow them when ascending uphill and straighten them out just a little on the descents.
• Use Your Arms: Dig in the poles when climbing and use your arms to push off the poles to relieve your legs.
• Keep Your Hands Relaxed: Do not grasp the poles firmly. Your wrists should be tied with the straps so that your hands are free.
• Practice Smooth Coordination: To maintain a smooth, balanced and efficient stride, your poles should swing in time with your stride, opposite arm and opposite leg.
• Stow Them Smartly: Most trail running poles fold up into a small bundle to clip on your pack or disappear inside.

Who Benefits Most from Trekking Poles?

Whether you are training in ultras, climbing mountain paths, or seeking to minimize the risk of injury and fatigue, trekking poles are, by all means, worth the use. To most of the trail runners, they open up frontiers of stamina and confidence. However, when you want to go fast instead of steady, or your terrain is smooth and flat, poles may only add more weight to your body.

Final Thoughts

Trail running trekking poles are not just hiking gears but a strong partner to serious trail runners. Poles are useful in steep ascents, rugged descents as they provide stability, decrease fatigue and improve performance. Trekking poles are great to have whether you are after your first ultra or simply enjoy tough trails.

Try them out on your next trail run, and you may never know how you ran without them.