What Height Should I Set My Trekking Poles To: Finding the Perfect Adjustment for Your Hikes

What Height Should I Set My Trekking Poles To?

When I first started venturing out on longer hikes, I admit, my trekking poles were more of a nuisance than a help. They felt clunky, either too long and banging against my shins on descents, or too short and forcing me into an awkward hunched posture on ascents. It wasn’t until I really dialed in the correct height for my trekking poles that they transformed from cumbersome accessories into indispensable companions. So, what height should I set my trekking poles to? The general rule of thumb is to set your trekking poles so that your elbows are bent at approximately a 90-degree angle when the pole tip rests on the ground and you’re standing upright. This seemingly simple adjustment makes a world of difference in comfort, efficiency, and safety on the trail. Let’s dive into why this matters and how to achieve that perfect setup.

The Crucial Role of Proper Trekking Pole Height

It might sound like a minor detail, but getting the height of your trekking poles just right is fundamental to maximizing their benefits. Think of your trekking poles as extensions of your arms, providing support, propulsion, and balance. If they’re not set to the correct height, they can actually work against you, leading to fatigue, strain, and even injury. I’ve seen hikers struggling with poles that are clearly too long, their shoulders creeping up towards their ears, or others with poles so short they’re practically crawling. This isn’t just uncomfortable; it compromises the very reasons you’re using poles in the first place.

Why a 90-Degree Elbow Bend is Key

The 90-degree elbow bend is the gold standard for a reason. When your elbow is at this angle, your upper body is in a neutral, relaxed position. This means:

Reduced Strain on Shoulders and Wrists: When poles are too short, you have to lean forward and hunch, putting undue stress on your shoulders and upper back. Conversely, if they’re too long and you’re constantly reaching, your wrists can become strained. The 90-degree bend allows your arms to hang naturally, distributing the load effectively.
Optimal Power Transfer: Proper height allows you to push off the ground effectively with each step. This means you can leverage the poles to help propel you forward, especially on inclines, without overexerting yourself. It’s about using them as a tool for efficient movement, not just as crutches.
Enhanced Balance and Stability: With your arms at a comfortable, natural angle, you have better control over the poles. This translates to more stable footing, particularly on uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, or when navigating down steep descents. You can react quicker and more effectively to changes in the trail.
Improved Posture: Using properly adjusted poles naturally encourages better posture. You’re less likely to slouch or lean excessively, which can prevent back pain and improve overall hiking comfort over long distances.

I remember one particularly challenging hike in the Rockies where the trail was a mix of steep, rocky ascents and jarring, scree-filled descents. My poles were initially set a bit too long, and on the downhill, I was constantly having to adjust my grip, feeling like I was fighting against them. Once I shortened them to achieve that perfect 90-degree bend, the difference was immediate. The descents became smoother, I felt more in control, and my knees and ankles thanked me profusely. It was a true revelation!

How to Measure and Adjust Your Trekking Poles

Now that we understand why the right height is so important, let’s get practical. Adjusting your trekking poles is a straightforward process, but precision makes all the difference. Most modern trekking poles are adjustable, typically featuring a telescoping design with locking mechanisms. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

The Standard Flat Ground Test

This is the most common and effective method for determining the ideal height for general hiking on relatively flat terrain.

Stand Tall: Find a flat, level surface. Stand up straight with your hiking boots on (as they will add some height). Relax your shoulders and let your arms hang naturally at your sides.
Grip the Pole: Pick up one of your trekking poles. Hold the grip as you normally would.
Position the Tip: Place the tip of the trekking pole on the ground directly beside your foot.
Check Your Elbow Angle: With the pole tip on the ground, observe the angle of your elbow. You want it to be roughly 90 degrees, forming a right angle. Your forearm should be roughly parallel to the ground.
Adjust the Pole: If your elbow is bent more than 90 degrees, your pole is too long. If it’s less than 90 degrees (meaning your arm is straighter), your pole is too short. Most adjustable poles have markings or are made of sections that slide into each other. Loosen the locking mechanism (usually a twist-lock or lever-lock) and slide the sections to lengthen or shorten the pole until you achieve that 90-degree bend.
Secure the Lock: Once you’ve found the right length, firmly tighten the locking mechanism. Ensure it’s secure to prevent accidental collapse on the trail, which can be dangerous. Test it by applying some pressure.
Repeat for the Other Pole: Do the same for your second trekking pole. While most people have symmetrical bodies, some minor adjustments might be needed if you have significant differences in arm length.

This 90-degree rule provides a fantastic baseline. It ensures that when you’re walking on a level path, your arms are in a comfortable, efficient position for supporting your weight and maintaining balance.

The Importance of Locking Mechanisms

Trekking poles come with different locking mechanisms, and understanding them is crucial for secure adjustment. The most common types are:

Twist-Lock: These require you to twist the pole sections against each other. As you twist, an internal expansion system tightens, holding the sections in place. They are generally reliable but can sometimes loosen over time, especially with extreme temperature changes or heavy use.
Lever-Lock (or Flip-Lock): These feature external levers that you open and close. When open, you can slide the pole sections. When closed, a cam mechanism clamps down, securing the length. Lever-locks are often easier to adjust on the fly, even with gloves on, and many hikers find them more secure and reliable, particularly in harsh weather conditions.

Whichever type you have, always double-check that they are fully locked before you start hiking. A pole collapsing on you, especially during a crucial step, can lead to a nasty fall. I’ve learned this the hard way, and now I give my locks a good tug and a visual inspection every single time.

Adjusting for Different Terrain: The Nuances

While the 90-degree rule is an excellent starting point, the ideal trekking pole height isn’t always static. Different terrains and hiking situations call for subtle adjustments. Being able to adapt your pole length on the fly can significantly improve your experience.

Uphill Adjustments (Shortening)

When you’re climbing a steep incline, you’ll often want to shorten your trekking poles slightly. Why? When you shorten the poles, you bring the tips closer to your body. This allows you to:

Get More Propulsion: Shorter poles mean you can plant them closer to your feet and push off more effectively with each step. This helps you to leverage the poles to drive yourself uphill, conserving energy.
Maintain a Comfortable Stride: If your poles are too long on an incline, you’ll find yourself over-reaching with each forward step, which can be inefficient and tiring. Shortening them allows for a more natural and rhythmic stride.
Prevent Over-Extension: Longer poles can cause you to lean too far forward, putting strain on your back and making it harder to maintain balance. Shorter poles help keep your upper body more upright.

How to adjust: On a steep uphill, you might find yourself shortening your poles by one or even two sections, bringing your elbow angle closer to 100-110 degrees. This is a subjective adjustment, so experiment to see what feels most efficient for you. The goal is to feel like the poles are actively helping you ascend, not just dragging along.

Downhill Adjustments (Lengthening)

Conversely, when descending a steep slope, you’ll often want to lengthen your trekking poles. This might seem counterintuitive, but here’s the logic:

Better Stability and Control: Longer poles provide a wider base of support, which is crucial for navigating tricky downhill sections. You can plant them further ahead and to the sides, giving you more points of contact and a greater sense of security.
Reduced Impact on Joints: By using longer poles, you can extend them further forward, allowing them to absorb some of the jarring impact as you step down. This can significantly reduce the stress on your knees, ankles, and hips.
Maintaining a More Upright Posture: If your poles are too short on a descent, you’ll be forced to lean forward significantly, putting more pressure on your knees and making it harder to see where you’re stepping. Longer poles help you maintain a more upright posture, improving visibility and reducing strain.

How to adjust: On steep descents, you might lengthen your poles so that your elbow angle is slightly greater than 90 degrees, perhaps around 80-85 degrees. You’ll want the poles to feel like they’re providing a stable platform in front of you, allowing you to control your descent. Be careful not to extend them *too* much, as this can make them unwieldy or cause them to snag on the trail.

I’ve found that being able to quickly adjust my poles has been a game-changer. On a recent hike that involved a long, sustained climb followed by a treacherous rocky descent, I found myself making adjustments almost every few minutes. The ability to slightly shorten them for that final push to the summit and then lengthen them for the descent made the entire experience far more enjoyable and less taxing. It’s like having a finely tuned tool that adapts to the demands of the trail.

Special Considerations:

Varying Arm Lengths: While most people have symmetrical arms, if you have a significant difference, you might need to set your poles to slightly different lengths.
Individual Preferences: Some hikers prefer a slightly longer or shorter pole than the strict 90-degree rule suggests, based on their personal biomechanics and comfort. It’s always worth experimenting to find what works best for *you*.
Carrying Load: If you’re carrying a heavy backpack, you might find you need to adjust your pole length slightly to compensate for the added weight and shifted center of gravity. Often, this means slightly longer poles for better support.

The Benefits Beyond Just Height Adjustment

While setting the right height is paramount, it’s worth remembering the broader advantages of using trekking poles, which are amplified when they are properly adjusted:

Improved Cardiovascular Workout

When used correctly, trekking poles engage your upper body—arms, shoulders, chest, and back—in addition to your legs. This means you’re getting a more comprehensive workout, burning more calories, and improving your cardiovascular fitness more effectively than hiking without poles. The rhythmic pushing and pulling motion adds a significant dimension to your effort.

Reduced Impact on Your Joints

This is one of the most celebrated benefits. By transferring some of your body weight to the poles, you significantly reduce the impact on your knees, hips, and ankles. This is particularly beneficial for:

Hikers with pre-existing joint issues.
Longer, more challenging hikes where cumulative impact can lead to pain.
Descents, which are notoriously hard on the lower body.

Studies have shown a considerable reduction in joint load when using trekking poles correctly. For me, as I get older, this benefit has become increasingly important. My knees definitely feel the difference after a long downhill section when I’ve properly utilized my poles.

Enhanced Balance and Stability

Trekking poles act as outriggers, providing a wider base of support. This is invaluable on:

Uneven or rocky terrain.
Slippery surfaces like mud, ice, or wet leaves.
River crossings.
Steep slopes where a misstep could be costly.

Having that extra point of contact with the ground gives you a crucial safety buffer. I’ve had moments on narrow, exposed ridges where planting a pole firmly prevented a potential stumble. It’s that added sense of security that allows you to focus more on the scenery and less on worrying about your footing.

Increased Uphill Efficiency

On ascents, the poles allow you to engage your upper body, adding a powerful push to your leg movement. This can:

Reduce the perceived exertion, making climbs feel easier.
Help maintain a consistent pace.
Allow you to tackle steeper inclines with more confidence.

Improved Posture and Reduced Back Pain

As mentioned earlier, proper pole height encourages a more upright posture. This can alleviate the common hiking complaint of a sore lower back, as it prevents slouching and allows your spine to remain in a more neutral alignment.

Mental Benefits

There’s also a psychological component. The rhythmic motion of pole use can be meditative, helping you get into a zone on long hikes. The added stability can also reduce anxiety on challenging trails, allowing you to enjoy the experience more fully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Pole Height

Even with the best intentions, hikers can fall into common traps when it comes to adjusting their trekking poles. Being aware of these pitfalls can save you a lot of discomfort and potential injury.

Mistake 1: The “One-Size-Fits-All” Approach

Relying solely on the initial setting or assuming the poles are perfect out of the box. As we’ve discussed, terrain changes, and your needs change with it. Not adjusting your poles for ascents and descents is a missed opportunity for efficiency and comfort. I see this often – hikers with poles set to the same length regardless of whether they’re going uphill, downhill, or on flat ground. It’s a missed opportunity to optimize their hiking.

Mistake 2: Ignoring the Elbow Angle

Some hikers might eyeball it, or set them based on the pole’s markings without actually checking their elbow. The markings are a guideline, but your personal anatomy and how you hold the grip matter most. The 90-degree bend is the primary indicator. If you’re not checking that, you’re likely not getting it right.

Mistake 3: Over-Tightening or Under-Tightening Locks

This is a critical safety issue. If the locking mechanisms aren’t secured properly, the poles can collapse unexpectedly. Conversely, over-tightening can damage the mechanism. Learn how your specific locks work and ensure they are snug and secure.

Mistake 4: Using Poles That Are Too Long

This is a very common mistake, especially for beginners. Poles that are too long force you to hunch, raising your shoulders and putting strain on your upper back and neck. On descents, they can also be awkward and lead to the pole tips catching on the ground or your boots.

Mistake 5: Using Poles That Are Too Short

The flip side of the coin. Poles that are too short require you to lean forward excessively, putting strain on your lower back and knees. It also makes it harder to get the proper propulsion on ascents.

Mistake 6: Not Wearing Your Hiking Boots When Adjusting

Your hiking boots add a couple of inches to your overall height. If you adjust your poles without them, they’ll likely feel too short once you’re out on the trail with your boots on.

It’s worth taking a few minutes before each hike, especially if it’s a new trail with varied elevation, to test and adjust your pole height. A small investment of time can yield significant rewards in comfort and performance.

Advanced Trekking Pole Techniques for Optimal Performance

Once you’ve mastered the basic height adjustment, you can explore more advanced techniques to truly unlock the potential of your trekking poles. These techniques leverage the adjusted height and the physical properties of the poles for maximum benefit.

The “Plant and Push” Technique (Uphill)

This is the core of uphill propulsion. As you step forward with your right foot, simultaneously plant your right trekking pole firmly into the ground slightly ahead and to the side of your right foot. As you push off with your right leg, apply pressure to the pole with your right hand, driving yourself forward. Then, as you step with your left foot, plant your left pole and repeat. The key is to synchronize the pole plant and push with your leg stride. With your poles correctly adjusted for uphill (slightly shorter), this motion becomes natural and powerful. You’re essentially creating a four-point contact system with the ground, providing excellent stability and forward momentum.

The “Controlled Descent” Technique (Downhill)

When descending, especially on steep or uneven terrain, the goal is to use your poles for balance and shock absorption. With poles lengthened appropriately for downhill, you’ll plant them ahead of your stepping foot. As you step down, allow the poles to bear some of your weight, absorbing the impact. Think of it as creating a controlled fall where the poles cushion your landing and provide stability. You can also use them for quick adjustments, planting a pole to the side to brace yourself if you feel a slip. This technique minimizes jarring to your joints and allows you to maintain a more confident pace.

The “Arm Swing Synergy”

The natural motion with trekking poles involves a coordinated arm swing, similar to cross-country skiing. As your right foot strides forward, your left arm swings forward with the pole, and vice versa. This natural swing, facilitated by the correct pole height, helps with rhythm and balance. It also ensures that you’re effectively using the poles to contribute to your forward momentum, rather than just passively dragging them.

Using Poles for River Crossings

Trekking poles are invaluable for safe river crossings. With your poles set to their longer, downhill configuration (or even slightly longer), plant them firmly in the riverbed *before* you step. Use them to probe the depth and stability of the riverbed. Plant both poles firmly, creating a stable tripod with your feet, and then carefully step across. They distribute your weight and provide crucial support against the current.

Pole Planting for Stability on Narrow Trails or Ridge Lines

On exposed or narrow sections, you can use your poles to create a wider, more stable stance. Instead of the typical synchronized stride, you might plant both poles to one side, providing an extra point of contact and a sense of security. This is a more defensive technique, used when stability is paramount.

Mastering these techniques takes practice, but the rewards are immense. It’s about turning your poles from simple walking sticks into dynamic tools that actively enhance your hiking performance and safety.

When Might You Need Different Pole Lengths?

While the 90-degree elbow rule is a fantastic baseline, certain situations might warrant deviating from it or at least being aware of how your needs might change.

The Weight of Your Pack

A heavy backpack shifts your center of gravity and can put more strain on your body. Hikers carrying substantial loads, such as through-hikers or those on extended expeditions, often find they prefer slightly longer poles to provide more leverage and support. This allows them to better distribute the weight and maintain an upright posture.

Personal Biomechanics and Comfort

We’re all built differently. Some individuals naturally have longer or shorter torsos or arms relative to their leg length. What feels like a perfect 90 degrees for one person might feel slightly too bent or too straight for another. It’s always worthwhile to experiment within a reasonable range around the 90-degree mark to find what feels most comfortable and efficient for *your* body.

Specific Trail Conditions

Beyond just uphill and downhill, consider other factors:

Technical Terrain: Very rocky or root-filled trails might require you to adjust your pole planting strategy, which can indirectly influence perceived optimal pole length for stability.
Snow or Ice: In snowy conditions, you might lengthen your poles to ensure they don’t sink too deep or to provide better balance on slippery surfaces. Some specialized snow baskets can also influence how the pole interacts with the terrain.
Mud or Soft Ground: In very soft ground, you might want slightly shorter poles to avoid them sinking too deeply, though good pole tips should mitigate this.

Arm Injuries or Weakness

If you have a previous injury or weakness in your arms or shoulders, you might adjust your pole height or technique to minimize stress on that area. This might involve using the poles more for balance and less for aggressive propulsion.

The key takeaway here is that the 90-degree rule is a highly effective starting point, but don’t be afraid to fine-tune. Listen to your body. If something feels strained or inefficient, experiment with slight adjustments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking Pole Height

Q1: How do I adjust my trekking poles if they have a cork grip? Does that affect the length?

Cork grips themselves don’t directly affect the adjustable length of the pole. The adjustable sections are usually located in the middle and sometimes at the bottom of the pole. The cork grip primarily relates to comfort and how it molds to your hand over time, offering a good feel and sweat absorption. When adjusting, you’ll be manipulating the telescoping sections of the pole. The length is determined by the extension of these sections. So, while cork grips enhance the *feel* of using the poles, they don’t change the fundamental mechanism for setting the *height*.

When you’re adjusting, always ensure you are gripping the main handle, which might be made of plastic, foam, or cork, and then locate the locking mechanism (twist-lock or lever-lock) on the pole’s shaft. It’s the shaft sections you’ll slide in or out. Ensure the locking mechanism is robustly secured once you’ve found your desired length. The cork grip itself is just the part you hold, not the part that dictates the adjustable length.

Q2: How do I know if my trekking poles are the right height for me when I’m hiking?

The best way to know if your trekking poles are the right height is through a combination of a quick check and listening to your body while you’re in motion. Before you start, and especially when transitioning between different terrain types (like going from a flat trail to a steep ascent), do a quick check. Stand upright and let your arms hang naturally. With the pole tip on the ground beside your foot, your elbow should be bent at approximately a 90-degree angle. This is your baseline. As you hike, pay attention to these cues:

Comfortable Shoulders: Are your shoulders relaxed, or are they creeping up towards your ears? If they are, your poles are likely too short.
Natural Arm Position: Does your arm feel like it’s in a comfortable, neutral position, or are you having to overreach or force your arm straight?
Efficient Propulsion (Uphill): On inclines, do you feel like you’re getting a good push from the poles? If they feel awkward or like you’re dragging them, they might be too long.
Controlled Stability (Downhill): On descents, do the poles provide a good stable base and help absorb shock, or do they feel too short and force you to lean forward excessively?
No Wrist Strain: Are you experiencing any discomfort or strain in your wrists? This could indicate the poles are too long or too short, forcing an unnatural angle.

Ultimately, your body will tell you if something isn’t right. If you feel fatigue, strain, or a lack of support, it’s a good sign that an adjustment is needed. Regularly checking and making minor tweaks based on how you feel and the terrain you’re on is key to optimal use.

Q3: Can I use trekking poles if I have a specific medical condition, like knee pain or back problems?

Absolutely! Trekking poles are often highly recommended for individuals with knee pain, back problems, or other joint issues. This is precisely why many people turn to them. Properly adjusted trekking poles can significantly alleviate stress on your lower body. By transferring some of your body weight to your upper body and arms, the poles reduce the impact on your knees and hips during ascents and, especially, descents. This reduction in impact can be substantial, often cited as reducing joint load by up to 20-25% when used correctly.

For back problems, trekking poles encourage better posture. By providing a more balanced gait and allowing you to maintain an upright stance, they can help prevent the slouching that often exacerbates back pain on hikes. The rhythmic movement can also engage your core muscles in a supportive way. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor or a physical therapist before starting any new activity, including hiking with poles, especially if you have a significant medical condition. They can provide personalized advice on technique and any potential precautions specific to your situation. They might also suggest specific exercises to complement pole use.

Q4: My trekking poles keep collapsing. What am I doing wrong?

This is a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem, and it usually comes down to the locking mechanism. There are a few common reasons why trekking poles might collapse:

Improperly Secured Locks: The most frequent culprit is simply not securing the lock tightly enough. Whether it’s a twist-lock or a lever-lock, ensure it’s fully engaged and snug. For twist-locks, keep twisting until you feel significant resistance; don’t stop too soon. For lever-locks, make sure the lever is firmly closed and clamped down. Give the pole a good tug to test its security.
Dirty or Damaged Locking Mechanism: Dirt, mud, sand, or ice can get into the locking mechanism and prevent it from engaging properly. Sometimes, repeated impact or improper handling can damage the internal components or the lever itself. If your poles are dirty, try cleaning them thoroughly, paying attention to the area where the sections connect and the lock engages.
Wear and Tear: Over time, the internal expansion system of twist-locks or the clamping force of lever-locks can wear down. If your poles are old or have seen heavy use, the locking mechanism might simply be less effective than it used to be.
Temperature Changes: Extreme cold can sometimes cause materials to contract, potentially loosening twist-locks. Conversely, extreme heat might cause expansion. While less common, it’s a factor to consider in very challenging environments.

What to do:

Clean Thoroughly: Disassemble your poles as much as possible and clean all parts, especially the locking areas.
Check for Damage: Inspect the locking mechanism for any visible cracks, bends, or missing pieces.
Adjust the Tension (Twist-Locks): Some twist-locks have adjustable tension. Check your pole’s manual to see if yours does and how to tighten it.
Replace if Necessary: If the locks are consistently failing despite cleaning and proper engagement, they might be worn out. Some manufacturers offer replacement parts, or it might be time to consider new poles.

The most important thing is to *always* test your locks before you start hiking. A pole collapse can lead to a serious fall, so never compromise on the security of your locks.

Q5: Are trekking poles really necessary for all types of hiking?

Whether trekking poles are “necessary” is subjective and depends heavily on the type of hiking you do, your personal physical condition, and your preferences. For casual strolls on well-maintained, flat paths, they might be overkill and could even feel cumbersome. However, for many types of hiking, they offer significant advantages:

Challenging Terrain: If you’re hiking on steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, uneven ground, or through snow and mud, poles are incredibly beneficial for stability, balance, and reducing impact.
Longer Hikes: On extended treks, the ability to distribute effort between your upper and lower body, reduce joint strain, and maintain momentum can make a huge difference in endurance and comfort.
Physical Limitations: For individuals with knee pain, back issues, or balance concerns, trekking poles can make hiking accessible and more enjoyable, transforming what might be a painful activity into a manageable one.
Heavy Loads: Hikers carrying significant weight, like backpackers, will find poles essential for managing the load and maintaining stability.

While not strictly “necessary” for every single hike, they are a highly recommended piece of gear for anyone looking to improve their hiking experience, safety, and physical efficiency, especially on anything beyond a gentle walk. They are an investment in your comfort and your body’s long-term health on the trail. I personally wouldn’t go on a hike with significant elevation changes or unknown terrain without mine anymore.

Choosing the Right Trekking Poles for You

Beyond just setting the height, the actual poles you choose matter. Consider these factors:

Material:
- Aluminum: Durable, affordable, and can withstand a good amount of abuse. Heavier than carbon fiber.
- Carbon Fiber: Lighter, which can reduce fatigue on long hikes, and better at absorbing vibrations. Can be more brittle and expensive.
Adjustability: As discussed, telescoping poles are standard. Ensure you understand and trust the locking mechanism (twist-lock vs. lever-lock).
Grips: Cork grips are excellent for comfort and moisture-wicking. Foam grips are lighter and also good at absorbing sweat. Rubber grips can be good in cold weather but might cause blisters in warm conditions.
Straps: Padded, adjustable straps are essential for comfort and control.
Weight: Lighter is generally better for long distances, but durability might be a trade-off.
Features: Some poles come with interchangeable tips for different terrains (e.g., rubber tips for pavement, carbide tips for dirt/rock, snow baskets).

Ultimately, the “best” trekking pole is the one that fits your budget, your hiking style, and that you’ll actually use. And once you have them, ensuring they’re set to the correct height is the next crucial step to unlocking their full potential.

Conclusion: Master Your Pole Height, Master Your Hike

Finding the perfect height for your trekking poles is a fundamental step toward a more comfortable, efficient, and safer hiking experience. The simple 90-degree elbow bend guideline provides an excellent starting point, but remember to adapt your pole length to the terrain. Shortening them for ascents to gain propulsion and lengthening them for descents to improve stability and reduce impact can dramatically enhance your performance. Don’t underestimate the power of this simple adjustment. By mastering your trekking pole height, you’re not just walking; you’re hiking smarter, stronger, and with greater enjoyment. So, the next time you head out, take a moment to ensure your poles are dialed in – your body will thank you for it.