As an avid walker, you know the benefits derived by using walking poles.  But I was surprised when Sunday’s newspaper had an ad from a major retailer (not a sporting goods store) on walking poles. The ad stated thea walking poles can ‘burn p to 45% more calories’.

Do you think walking poles are finally becoming mainstrean.  Is the pole walking phenomenom finally catching on in the US?  Maybe this isn’t as big a surprise to you as it is to me.  I just have never seen an advertisement in the mid-West.

One item I did notice about the ad is that there was not any instructional books or videos show with the poles.  Should this be our call to action?  In order to gain the benefits they are advertising you must use the equipment properly properly.

Pole Walking Technique

The American College of Sports Medicin (ACSM) provides a easy recipe:

          Correct technique is very important when
          walking with poles. Walk naturally, but try to
          lengthen your stride by around five percent
          compared to your normal stride. Relax your
          shoulders and keep hands and poles close to
          your body. Always make sure that your head is
          positioned normally. Stride forward with one
          foot and the opposite arm; plant the pole and
          then swing that arm backwards as the other
          arm and leg move forward. The poles should
          be adjusted to the correct height, so that when
          extended the arm is perpendicular to the
          ground.

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