As we grow, our body goes through a series of changes that we might not like. A long hike with no breaks may seem challenging. Or managing your balance on a rocky trail might seem like a challenging task.
Since most people start losing their strength and stamina in their older years, it is essential to look for some aid — something to help you cover hiking trails. A walking pole might be a suitable solution if you are a senior with a thing for going out.
Five Worthwhile Reasons for Seniors to Own a Walking Pole
Having a walking pole isn’t just for looks. It can help you in the following ways:
- It Protects the Knees
As you age, your body starts absorbing a lot of extra pressure. This makes your knees weak and prone to a lot of stress. This deterioration in the knees makes the muscles and ligaments vulnerable with time.
Knees contain cartilage and menisci. It helps you make movements without any discomfort. As you age, the cartilage in your knees starts to deteriorate and dry up, resulting in different issues, such as arthritis.
Even if aging does not cause medical issues, your knees will naturally become weaker and feel more pressure. Using a walking pole divides that pressure and helps you move quickly.
Additionally, muscle wear and tear is less likely when your body weight depends on another object. Walking poles are a great way to make your outdoor trips easier. Exert as much as possible, but ensure it does not hurt the knees.
- It Helps Maintain Balance
The vestibular system in our ears is responsible for helping keep the body balanced. It signals the brain how to react and position yourself to avoid falls. As you become older, the vestibular system cells die. This is why older people have issues balancing their bodies.
Another reason the elderly find it hard to maintain body balance is the presence of heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, vision, and thyroid. If you are fit and a senior, your balance will be much better than your counterparts with health conditions.
Walking is one way to maintain balance, but with a cane, you add an extra touch point on the ground, which increases support. You will feel more stable. A walking pole lifts pressure off the spine and joints, leading to a more balanced walk.
- It Helps Hike Uphill
Hiking uphill is an excellent form of exercise that helps you burn more calories than generic hiking. Unless recommended by a medical professional, there is no reason why seniors can’t plan a hike that involves slight elevation.
Your body requires more energy when you are moving uphill. It means that you need to maintain a better posture and body balance. Using a walking pole eases the journey, encouraging you to travel longer distances on a pitch that finishes off at some height.
A walking pole helps you climb uphill, but did you know that a hiking pole also enables you to come down much faster? So, if you want to maintain that heart pace, come down with the help of a pole.
- It Helps Burn More Calories
With age, it is essential to protect your organs so they are less prone to damage and deterioration. Calorie burning is a great way to stay in shape and maintain overall health.
Generic walking includes mainly using your lower body or legs. However, with a stick, your upper body is also engaged in the activity, keeping you in shape while burning more calories. This is enough activity for seniors experiencing health issues such as arthritis.
Apart from joint mobility issues, seniors are prone to cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and liver issues. You can avoid all this by burning a little more calories. Lastly, if being old makes you rude, cranky, and frustrated for no reason, try to go on a walk, and you will feel much better.
- It Aids in Muscle Retention
We are not talking about the conventional six-pack abs that come to mind when someone mentions muscles. Most older people start losing muscle mass which can make your skin look saggy and loose — also, not to forget the toll it takes on your stamina.
Even if you are not about the aesthetic look muscles bring to a body, remember that they help you maintain health and stability while walking. Using a walking pole keeps a straight posture. It engages all types and makes them stronger, so your body has the potential to combat weakness.
Walking Poles That Seniors Should Try
Whether looking for long walks at the beach or a quick hike at the nearest track, having a right walking pole is mandatory for most seniors. Putting your hand on one can be somewhat confusing with so many options. This is why we have shortlisted some trendy options for you to try, which might change the way you go out.
If you are looking for a walking pole that lasts a long time, TrailBuddy has the perfect product. It is made from a durable study material, ensuring that the pole lasts for a long time regardless of your expedition intensity. Despite being sturdy, the material is lightweight and does not add to the stuff you are carrying. It has an adjustable length to match your preference and can be operated with one hand. TrailBuddy values your safety, and that’s why the pole has a secure grip and moisture-wicking finish. The pole tips encourage you to easily explore different tracks – even the snowy and muddy ones.
Bafx offers you a pair of walking poles if you want to take a plus one. It is a sturdy aluminum product that holds its shape even if you go on challenging expeditions. They feature an expandable body with a twist lock, so you can adjust it to match your requirements. This pole also comes with tips in the packaging, allowing you to go to different types of tracks.
The Cascade Mountain Tech features a lightweight, extended grip to hold it for long hours without discomfort. It boasts a durable aluminum body to become a perfect trail partner without pain. The walking pole comes with a complete kit, so you can plan your trips to match your stamina and mood. There are different color options as well.
Final Thoughts
Walking poles help seniors build stamina and keep them stable. You can use them for hiking, exploring trails, or even walking in your yard. Walking poles help you maintain energy so you can burn more calories. For seniors who want to walk but are concerned about the pressure, it puts on their joints, a suitable walking pole might answer your concerns.