Nithyam Nachappa
Why this matters
If you spend time in the mountains, this is not a small detail.
The way you use your trekking poles will directly affect:
- How your knees hold up on descents
- How tired you feel at the end of the day
- How long you can keep doing this, year after year
Most people don’t realise it, But they’re using only half the system.
A small moment on trail
This was in Miyar Valley, Lahaul.
I was walking with my team when Steve, a seasonal hiker, joined me for a bit. He always uses two poles.
He asked me "Why do most Indian trekkers use only one trekking pole?”
I laughed and told him, “I guess it feels more comfortable… and maybe the purpose isn’t really about protecting the knees.”
He found that funny. Because to him, that is the whole point of using poles. We both shrugged it off and kept walking.
But it stayed with me.
Why do most people prefer one pole?
I know the reason. And I’ll say it straight at the start:
It’s mostly a lack of practice with two poles, and the idea that one feels easier because a hand stays free.
Let’s get clear on one thing first
A trekking pole is not just for balance.
It’s meant to:
- Reduce load on your knees
- Distribute effort across your body
- Help you move efficiently, especially on long descents
Now think about it:
If that’s the purpose, how much can one pole really do?
Why one pole feels “better”
Using one pole:
- Feels simple
- Keeps one hand free
- Gives some support
So people stick to it.
But that’s like using half a system and assuming it’s enough.
The real reason it feels comfortable is because:
Most people haven’t spent time learning how to use two poles properly.
And that’s fair. No one really teaches this clearly.
The shift when you use two poles
When used properly, two poles change how you move.
- Elbows = 90° (adjust according to the trail gradient)
- Pole placed slightly behind your foot
- Opposite hand and leg moving together
- Place it like you mean it, not soft touch to the ground
At first, it feels awkward, then using it over a period of time, something clicks and then you realise your movement has become so smooth that you cannot do without them. I am the proof for this.
Let’s be honest about the knee argument
If you’re using ONE pole just for balance, Fine! one works!
But if you’re saying:
“I’m using it to protect my knees”
Then one pole isn’t doing enough.
Descents are where damage happens.
Two poles help share the load. One barely changes it.
End of the day, I’m not saying throw your one pole away.
Use it if that’s what you’re comfortable with.
But if you really want to move better, last longer, and take care of your knees over years and not just one trek, you need to take the time and learn to use two poles properly.
Give it a few days. It’ll feel awkward. Then it won’t.
And after that, you’ll know exactly what Steve and I were laughing about.
