We all remember our first race or favorite adventure, but what about the first time you added poles into the mix? Below, LEKI athlete Sabrina Stanley shares her story of when she started running and training with poles and why it has been a game changer for her.
Have a story of your own? Share your experience in the comments section and be automatically entered for a chance to win a new pair of LEKI Ultratrail FX One Superlite Poles. One random winner will be selected and notified.
I started running with poles consistently when I began training for a mountainous 100-miler in the summer of 2018. I knew I would be using poles for the entirety of the race, so I ran with poles during all my training miles. This helped get my upper body familiar with the additional load it would be taking on while climbing and descending. It also taught me how to use the poles efficiently.
My “Ah-Ha” moment came when I was studying the most competitive runners in the world at races that piqued my interest. These runners were all using poles. To be competitive I knew I had to learn how to use poles to assist in my running if I wanted to run at the same level as the top athletes.
Poles take some of the load off a runner’s legs while going up and downhill. This transfer of power to the upper body allows a runner to conserve their legs for a longer period.
Don’t forget! Comment below about your first experience running or training with poles and you could win a free pair of LEKI Ultratrail FX One Superlite Poles. [the contest period for commenting is now closed]
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I first used trekking poles while hiking on part of the Appalachian trail from Tinker Cliffs to McAfee’s Knob for a sunset/moonrise excursion. Having the poles was super helpful on the more technical sections of the trail. I started running with them when trail running with my very enthusiastic dog! The extra stability is nice for when she sees a detour or wildlife to chase
It helps me keep up with her and keep me on my feet!
My first use ended up being an out and back at the Grand Canyon. They really help divide the effort between upper and lower body when making my way back out. As a Floridian, any help with elevated terrain is incredibly usefull.
Still haven’t tried poles, YET! ?
My first time running with poles was at the tushars mountain runs last year! I trained with them for about a week before using them for that race, which I will return for, but the 100k instead of the 70k this year which is sure to be a challenge. I love the poles for the ups yes, but especially love them on the downs. The next big race I will need them for is cocodona! Perhaps multiple pairs there for comfort!
I haven’t yet but I am seriously considering!
I’ll consider and hopefully try using poles more, however I have previously only used them in slippery or muddy conditions. I always felt carrying the added weight would be a detriment. If I win these light weight poles I’ll give it my all to gain the benefits everyone has mentioned.
First used in run rabbit run for the initial acscent up the ski slope to keep legs fresh.
I’m in the Eastern Sierra where most trails are big ups followed by big downs. Poles can be a lifesaver at the end of a long day out when you drop down 4000-6000 ft in a hurry!
It’s crazy that I never noticed how many mountain runners use poles until this year. It’s kind of like when you get a new car and then see it everywhere. I have watched a bunch of videos and read about all the benefits, but have yet to get them. I am excited to try them and use them in my next ultra.
…after I ran my first muddy trail race without them. The next year the race was extremely muddy again and they were so helpful with maintaining my balance.