The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.
Recently, we reported on a pretty mind-blowing study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology that suggested improved cardiac function in participants who committed to Nordic walking, which involves walking sticks or trekking poles. Compared to normal walking, the addition of poles or sticks forces the walker to engage the upper body muscles, as well as the lower body, for more well-rounded movement. (You can learn more about Nordic walking in our previous coverage.)
Boosted heart health aside, we learned from tons of people who purchased this set of FitLife Nordic hiking sticks that they offer additional benefits to walking routines, especially for those who may find this vital form of exercise challenging to begin with. While we normally cover on-sale items that are at least 15% off, nabbing two sets of these can earn you 10% off when you redeem the on-page coupon. Given that they’re currently the lowest-priced pair of trekking poles on Amazon, this is a steal — and especially with over 11,000 rave reviews.
According to an overwhelming majority, these collapsible and well-constructed trekking poles make walking easier, safer, and, even improve posture, thus making walking a more comfortable experience.
For instance, several reviewers who claimed to have prior injuries or other health conditions that make walking difficult consider the FitLife sticks an affordable way to achieve their walking and health goals confidently and independently.
Made from aircraft-grade aluminum and weighing less than 10 ounces each, the FitLife poles are height-adjustable up to 53 inches to accommodate most statures. When not fully extended, the poles collapse to 25.6 inches or disassemble to just 21.25 inches, making them easy to store or take along on trips where there might be a lot of walking required. The lever locks on each pole also help ensure they’re secure enough to bear weight and only require the use of one hand to adjust between heights.
These poles have five sets of tip attachments so no matter if you’re using these poles to walk on rocky terrain, muddy trails, light snow or your neighborhood sidewalk, they’ve got you covered.
You can also expect another simple yet thoughtful design feature with these trekking poles: padded wrist straps and handles to add more support.
“Best purchase in a long time,” “great investment” and “better than a cane” are just some of the words of endorsement from these happy trekking pole owners that you can read up ahead. Hit the link above to grab a pair for yourself, and make a small and effective change in your health.
“I’m currently participating in an every other weekend hiking club for 55+. I love it but my sciatica really caused some complications (and though I’m getting medical care for it), I felt a hiking aid might help me. I did my research & finally decided on the FitLite Nordic Walking Trekking poles. These lightweight poles with their anti-shock & easy lock system coupled with their incredibly sturdy & reliable construction & body support, have been game changers. I hike further with more stability, less pain, & I have more stamina & control. This product has completely exceeded all of my expectations. This is my best purchase in a long time & the cost is minimal based on the quality of this product. Great investment. Happy Hiking!” — Steve
“These are easy to use, uncomplicated sticks and adjustable for children and short people. Although I used to do a lot of hiking I’ve gotten old and need a cane or stick for balance. My “hiking” is now on the streets of Manhattan. I’ve found that I like these hiking sticks better than a cane because they telescope and are lighter than canes. They came with a variety of different tips for snow, ice and anything you might need them for. I use the rubber tips to walk on sidewalks and what I especially like with the tips they provided is that they screw on. They are easy to screw in place and won’t get pulled off if they get stuck in a crack which has happened to me several times. I only use one stick so the second one is a spare. I have lost many sticks, both in the woods while hiking, in taxis, stores, all over. I will try not to lose these.” — Pet Parent
“I have medical problems and have challenges walking any distance without some sort of aid. Now the ocean is my happy place and when my medical problems get overwhelming the beach is where I want to be. I only live 10 minutes away from the Oregon coast. I could not go. I couldn’t walk out there. These have changed everything. I can go where I want. I still have limitations but these help so much. They are portable and easy to put together. Adjustable for height. Lightweight but sturdy and comfortable” — Amazon Customer
“I need to exercise! Walking is the best exercise for me. However, due to failed back surgery, my walking has become unstable. I bought walking sticks for support and for prevention of falling. The walking sticks are adjustable and come with several different ‘feet.’ I am sure they will provide the stability I need.” — Dorian F.
If the FitLife trekking poles don’t seem like the perfect fit for you, take a look at some of these other walking stick options from some of our previous coverage written by HuffPost senior wellness reporter Jillian Wilson.
Montem ultra-strong trekking poles
These ultra-strong trekking poles from the brand Montem can be easily adjusted so you get get the right height for you. They’re lightweight and come in multiple color options; they’re also highly recommended with more than 1,000 five-star reviews.
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)
