First, let me say I know the best way to get better MPD (miles per day) is to walk longer not faster but I want this thread to be about walking technique / walking efficiency.

I know my walking pace was a little slow and thought I could improve on it. So, one day I googled "walking faster" and came up with a plethora of web sites and videos dealing with speed walking & racewalking. Now, the only thing I knew about speed walking is how funny people look when their doing it.

There is one fundamental in speed walking I found quite interesting and that is placing one foot directly in front of the other. I've tried this and it does pick up your pace but for me keeping my balance while doing this takes a little more effort.

Now, since we're using trekking poles we are essentially Nordic walking. I found it much easier to keep my balance speed walking while using trekking poles.

The only problem is so much of AT terrain isn't made for speed trekking.

Basic speed walking video
Basic Nordic waking video
There isn't a Nordic speed walking video. Maybe I'll make one.
I'm really not trying to speed hike I'm just trying to improve my walking technique. I really don't want to be like this guy on the trail.

Your comments, thoughts tips.