So, you’ve signed up for your first trail race—congratulations! Whether it’s a local 10K or the lung-busting Ultra Trail Snowdonia, it’s a huge step. As you prepare for the big day, you might have noticed some runners using what look like ski poles. Don’t worry, you haven’t stumbled into a biathlon; those are running poles, and they can be your new best friends on the trail.
Let’s dive into how running poles work, why you might want to use them, and how to choose the right ones for your first race.
Why Use Running Poles?
Running poles are like a secret weapon for trail runners. They can:
- Save Your Legs: By engaging your upper body, poles help reduce the strain on your legs during climbs and descents.
- Improve Balance: On technical terrain (think loose rocks or muddy slopes), poles help keep you upright and confident.
- Boost Performance: Studies show they can improve efficiency, especially on steep climbs. Plus, they make you look like a pro!
Getting Started with Running Poles
When to Use Them
Running poles shine on hilly or technical trails. If your race features a lot of elevation gain or uneven terrain, they’re a game-changer. If your course is flat and smooth, you might not need them—but they can still help reduce fatigue on long distances.
How to Use Them
- Get the Rhythm: Think of it like a walking pace, but faster. Plant the pole opposite to your leading foot (right pole with left foot, and vice versa). It might feel awkward at first, but you’ll get into a flow.
- Don’t Overgrip: Hold the poles lightly—white knuckles waste energy. Trust the straps to help secure the poles.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Take your poles out on a few training runs to build your technique and figure out what works for you.
Choosing the Right Poles
When shopping for running poles, you’ll encounter two main factors: materials and adjustability. Crib Goch Outdoor stocks some excellent options for beginners and intermediate runners.
Materials
- Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and stiff, making them ideal for long races. However, they can be pricier.
- Aluminium: A bit heavier but more durable, which is great if you’re prone to bashing them against rocks (no judgment!).
Adjustable vs Fixed Length
- Fixed-Length Poles are lighter and more durable since they lack moving parts. However, they must match your height precisely.
- Adjustable Poles let you tweak the length, which is handy if you share them with a partner or run varied terrain. They’re slightly heavier but super versatile.
Sizing Your Poles
To find the right size, stand with your arm at a 90-degree angle (imagine holding a cup of tea at a very posh party). Measure the distance from your hand to the ground. Most brands list pole sizes in centimeters, so convert accordingly.
Pro Tip: Many runners prefer slightly shorter poles for steep ascents and slightly longer ones for flat terrain.
Top Picks from Crib Goch Outdoor
- Mountain King Trail Blaze
- Made from strong yet lightweight aluminium.
- Collapsible for easy storage.
- Available in a range of fixed lengths to suit all heights.
- Perfect for beginners and experienced runners alike, they offer a great balance of performance and durability
- Made in the UK
- LEKI Ultra Trail FX.One
- Lightweight carbon construction.
- Comfortable, glove-style straps.
- Collapsible for easy transport.
- Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
- Superlight and compact.
- Fixed length for simplicity and weight savings.
- Great for races with serious elevation.
A Few Final Tips
- Train with Your Poles: Don’t save them for race day. Using poles efficiently takes practice, and you don’t want to be fiddling with straps at the starting line.
- Be Polite on the Trail: If overtaking someone, call out to let them know. No one enjoys a surprise pole poke to the calf.
- Pack Smart: If the race doesn’t allow poles the whole way, make sure yours are collapsible and fit snugly in your pack.
Running your first race is exciting, and using poles can give you an edge—both physically and mentally. So, grab a pair, hit the trails, and let those poles do some of the work. Who knows? You might even find yourself setting your sights on a bigger challenge next time.
See you at the finish line! 🏃♂️🎉
Explore running poles and more at Crib Goch Outdoor or read more The Ultimate Guide to Leki Hiking and Running Poles
