Discussion Board

Hi- just wondering if anyone uses walking poles. I'm trying to start exercising but am having some knee and hip pain and thought these might be helpful but I'm not sure where to start. I know there are 2 different kinds and would prefer to buy them from a store instead of online is I can get feedback on use and tips etc.

Can anyone give me an idea where to begin?

Using walking poles is the only way I can manage to do fitness walking and when my back acts up I use them whenever I walk. Something about using the poles keeps me in better alignment and my knees don't ache. It's also pretty hard to over stride when using the poles.

I use the Exerstrider poles - they are available online not in stores, but don't let that deter you. They come with a great instructional DVD and book - http://www.walkingpoles.com/

I eventually bought these after ignoring several recommendations (on another forum) about how great these poles are. I wanted to go cheaper and was not sure about the differences of the Exerstriders from most of the other walking poles. Boy was I wrong. I own two sets, both adjustable - one set the OS2 I keep at home and the Activator set I keep in the truck, used them at work and they are my travel pair.

The pluses for me, they are adjustable, the grip is very comfortable and grip isn't really what you do - the action of holding it is more like cradleing so it's easier to master the pump action of the correct stroke.

The difference between the OS2 and the Activator - the OS2 is a twist action adjustment - the adjustments are unlimited. The Activator has a little spring button that allows for 5 different settings. Since I get good fit with the Activator it's my preferred one for travel since the other one requires a bit more fiddling with to get the same adjustment every time.

A little long here - hope the info helps.

Suzanne

Thanks Suzanne-

That's exactly the kind or information I was hoping for. I can't find anything but trekking poles in stores locally and from what I've read, they are different than what you want for walking. So I'll end up ordering whatever poles I get. Your post was very helpful.

Suzanne-

Thanks again for that link. I found someone local who gives an intro class for the exerstrider poles and helps you choose and fit them. We are currently working to see when we can get together for this. I'm excited.

That's great news - I think you will really enjoy using them and having someone available to show you proper motion - wow. It's not hard or complicated just different. Once you "get it" it's a very enjoyable way to move with the poles. Keep us posted with how it goes

I can't rave about them enough. I use a pair that was gifted to me - Lekis - but I saw an interesting pair at costco for $25 which I gifted to the person who gifted me the Lekis - they seem to be happy with them.

They have saved me from a bad ankle, painful hips, and tightened up the batwings under my arms --

Hope you enjoy them as much as I have.