The Physics Alive Podcast

Episode #34

The Physics of Trekking Poles with Lindy Smith

Whether you climb mountains or hike on local trails through the woods, trekking poles can benefit your knees, improve your balance, and give you the confidence to navigate the natural world. Lindy Smith, a personal trainer and associate of the pole manufacturing company LEKI, shares her knowledge, experience, and stories about biomechanics, pole anatomy, and the joys of walking. With physics at the forefront, we explore the world of hiking with poles.

Today's Guest:
Lindy Smith

Lindy Smith is energetic, feisty, and a trekking pole expert. She is a certified ACE Personal Trainer and certified AFAA Group Exercise Instructor who teaches in southern Florida. She is also associated with the company LEKI, manufacturers of ski, trekking, and hiking poles and gloves.

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Or check her out on LinkedIn:

Episode Notes and Resources

Visit the LEKI website:

Check out the LEKI Makalu Lite CorTec poles. These are the poles that LEKI provided for my review. Honestly, they are the best poles I’ve ever owned: lightweight, flexible, easy to adjust, and the egg-shaped top to the grip is probably my favorite part. Such a pleasure on a steep descent.

Here are some articles I read about trekking poles before the interview. Although we did not discuss these findings in the episode, I found them really informative and interesting. If you are a student or instructor, you may find these valuable for your class:

General findings include:

  • You burn more calories
  • You walk faster (or it feels that way)
  • You take load off joints and muscles
    • Counter arguments: Loading helps build up resistance to damage
  • You balance better
    • Counter arguments: Does this weaken your muscles?
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