Nordic Walking

Nordic Walking is an enhancement on regular walking but using poles.

See Also:: Walking

An Overview of Nordic Walking

Nordic Walking uses specially designed poles to enhance your natural walking experience. With a technique that is similar to the upper body action of classic cross country skiing, Nordic Walking becomes a genuinely whole body exercise that can be enjoyed at many levels, from walking for health to athletic Nordic running.

Benefits

Nordic Walking combines the simplicity and accessibility of walking with simultaneous core and upper body conditioning similar to Nordic skiing. The result is a full body workout, which means that you: burn up to 46% more calories compared to walking without poles, release tension in the neck and shoulders, improve your posture and gait, strengthen your back and abdominal muscles and reduce the impact on the joints. Because Nordic Walking doesn't feel like hard work, you'll be happy to walk further and for longer.

Costs

It can be done by anybody, anywhere and does not require expensive equipment or clothing.

Adaptations and Equipment

Getting the correct poles is the most important thing to concentrate on when starting to Nordic Walk - it is also important not to confuse these with ordinary trekking or walking poles. Nordic Walking poles have 3 main components: the Pole Shaft, the Grip / Hand strap and the Basket / Paw.