As I write this from a tea house near Lukla Airport, waiting for the rain to clear, I’m reflecting on my recent journey to Everest Base Camp. At 65, completing this trek has been an incredible achievement. Over 650,000 steps at altitudes reaching 17,598 feet have brought me here, and I’m grateful to have had my Nordic walking poles by my side. Not only did they help me tackle the challenging terrain, but they also added stability and confidence throughout the trek.
Why Use Nordic Poles for Mountain Trekking?
In familiar settings like the UK, Nordic poles are ideal for enhancing the INWA 10 Steps and improving your walking technique. But in mountainous terrains, such as those found in Nepal, Wales, or Scotland, poles serve a different purpose. Here, stability is often more important than propulsion. With the right mindset and techniques, Nordic poles can be a tremendous asset in rugged environments.
Stability First: Adapting Your Technique for Mountain Terrain
The techniques we use in everyday Nordic walking aren’t quite the same in mountainous conditions. When facing challenging landscapes, it's essential to prioritize stability. Think of yourself as a tripod: at least three points of contact (two poles and one foot) should be on the ground at any time. While it’s not a traditional Nordic walking technique, these adaptations are key to safe and effective mountain trekking.
Nordic Pole Techniques for Mountains
1. Be Aware of the Ground: Terrain can change rapidly, from rocks to loose gravel to slippery paths. Always evaluate your surroundings, adjust pole placement as needed, and maintain stability.
2. Handling Ascents: When climbing, lean into the slope with bent knees. Alternate pole placement is effective here, but for steeper climbs, a double-poling technique can provide additional support. On stairs or uneven steps, place both poles on the higher step, push down, and take it one step at a time.
3. Descending with Control: Descents can be even more challenging, especially on steep slopes. If your poles are adjustable, lengthen them slightly for added stability. Consider removing your pole straps on very steep terrain to avoid getting caught if you slip. A zig-zag or sideways approach is helpful for difficult slopes, placing one pole on your current step and the other on the next to form a stable “handrail.”
Preparing with Practice
You don’t need the Himalayas to practice these techniques—hills and staircases at home work well. Taking the time to practice these techniques will prepare you for any adventure, whether it’s in the mountains or a local park.
Nordic poles aren’t just for Nordic walking—they’re versatile tools for trekking in any terrain. With the right techniques, they can make a challenging trek like Everest Base Camp safer and more enjoyable.
If you have questions or want to learn more about Nordic walking, feel free to reach out to me at polestarsnordicwalking@gmail.com.
John is one of our National Trainers and runs our INWA Nordic . Walking Instructor Courses in the South East. Check out his next course here