Thank you so much for taking the time to post about nutrition/calories: I have a constant battle with this. I have an incredibly difficult time eating while exercising, to the point of wanting to puke when I try to eat, and elevation (9k+ feet) makes it much worse. I needed to hear your advice, and I really need to practice it - especially for difficult hikes and for backpacking.
I also own poles and never use them (fancy, comfy Pacer poles) - not against it, but I am always doing things with my hands (photos) and it always seemed a hassle plus some desire to let my ankles and core do the work.
