If you’ve ever thought about picking up walking poles, you’ve probably wondered: do I really need two, or can I just use one? The answer depends on your goals, comfort, and the kind of walking you’re doing.

Using One Pole

A single walking pole can be a good option if:

• You just want a little extra balance on uneven ground.
• You’re easing into pole walking and want to keep it simple.
• You’re dealing with a mild injury or need light support.

The trade-off? With only one pole, your body gets uneven support—one arm works while the other doesn’t. That means less stability and less workout for your upper body.

Using Two Poles

Two poles are the classic Nordic walking setup, and here’s why:

• Balanced support on both sides.
• A full-body workout—your arms, shoulders, and core all join the party.
• Better posture because you’re naturally encouraged to stand taller.
• More stability on hills, trails, and slippery surfaces.

If your goal is fitness, posture, or joint relief, two poles usually win.

Our Thoughts

• One pole = light balance and support.
• Two poles = full-body benefits, stability, and stride confidence.

So, can you use one pole? Sure. But if you want the real benefits walking poles were designed to deliver, two is definitely better than one! Let's Get Out There!