FAQs
FAQs
What are the differences between the Activator Poles and Urban Poles?
What are the differences between the Activator Poles and Activator 2?
Why Activator and Urban Poles are Strapless?
Why is Urban Poling the only company in Canada that distributes poles with an ergonomic strapless handle?
Our ergonomic handle was carefully designed to most effectively exercise all the body’s major muscles and develop “core fitness” as you are poling! The grip and technique target strengthening. The ergonomic design allows the user to apply a downward pressure on the wide base of the CoreGrip (handle) with their hand and wrist supported in a neutral position thereby placing less stress on joints.
The strapless handle system was also designed to reduce the risk of injuries. A study conducted on the generic Nordic walking poles suggests that this is a very safe form of exercise. However, the most common injury happens the pole gets caught or in the event of a fall and the hand is still attached to the poles. (Source: “Nordic pole walking injuries” K. Knobloch Sept 20, 2006. – U.S. National Library of Medicine). Nordic Walking Injuries _Translated Research Study_
What if my Urban Poles (Series 300, 4Life & Adventure) get stuck and I can’t collapse or lengthen them?
The Urban Poles (Series 300, 4Life and Adventure) were designed with an excellent locking system but new poles may be tight to unlock initially.
Here are three simple solutions:
Before you get started, please remember NOT to touch the black plastic ferrule where the pole sections connect. Secondly, do NOT use a wrench or pliers on the poles as it will damage the locking mechanism and void the warranty.
– Turn the pole upside down, and anchor the handle tightly between your feet. Then, check the lock/unlock arrows near the tip of the pole. Using two hands (on the section of the poles with the tip), turn sharply in the direction of unlock. OR
– Keeping the pole parallel to the ground, give the handle end to a friend. Ask them to hold tightly with two hands as you check the lock/unlock arrows on the pole. Then, using two hands on the bottom section of the poles, turn sharply in the direction of unlock. OR
– It may also be helpful to wear rubber gloves or use a non slip material sheet to obtain a better grip.
How do I use them properly to get the maximum benefits?
To obtain the maximum benefits, make sure you are using the proper technique for your poles. Watch the video and read the User’s Guide found under Getting Started – Urban Poling Instruction or ACTIVATOR Instructions. Alternatively, you can take a private lesson or series of classes with a certified Urban Poling instructor, click on Find A Class
Do the poles adjust in length?
Yes, the Urban Poles (Series 300/4Life/Adventure) adjust for people who are 4’2″ (127 cm) to 6’2″ (188 cm). The ACTIVATOR Poles adjust for people who are 3’10” (116 cm) to 6’ (183 cm). New – ACTIVATOR2 Poles adjust for people who are up to 6’4″ (193 cm).
What is the function of the boot tips and how often should I replace them?
The boot tips have three functions:
- They flex on contact with the ground for added comfort and absorb shock and vibrations to reduce stress on your joints.
- The treads provide better contact and create resistance as you apply force to the poles.
- The tips help propel you forward faster to achieve a better workout. Urban Poling boot tips are made from high grade rubber.
They should be replaced when the treads wear down or approximately every 6 months to one year with regular use (2-3 times per week).
Can I use my Urban & ACTIVATOR poles in for hiking, travel and in the winter?
Yes, our Urban & ACTIVATOR Poles can be used all year round and can also be used for winter walking, snowshoeing, hiking and travel. Take off the rubber tips and use the carbide steel tips for additional traction and stability on slippery terrain. You can also add snow baskets to any of our poles for walking in deep snow. The Spirit Poles comes with snow baskets while the Adventures Poles come with trekking and snow baskets.
How do I adjust the height of the Adventure 3-sectional poles?
With the 3-sectional Adventure poles, there are 2 locking systems that need to be adjusted to ensure your poles are the right height for you.
Step 1: Follow the instructions above for adjusting the lower section of your poles.
Step 2: Complete the same process for the mid-section of the poles. Both pole sections should be adjusted to the same height marker to correspond with the height of the user. Always make sure your poles are securely locked before use.
*Always make sure you have secured both locking system before use.