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That being said, I agree that it is possible to overuse poles in some cases. They should be a temporary aid on steep and/or uneven terrain, not a crutch.


Poles can be helpful on most any terrain regardless of steepness. They allow the input of arm muscles for greater efficiency. Anyway, given that there are few sidewalks in the wilderness, most any trail hike can benefit from the stability of poles.

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It is my opinion that poles partially take over the job of the secondary stabilizing muscles of the lower extremities thus hampering proper development.


Huh?? Who's out there with undeveloped muscles?
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