Written by Elise Cunningham, Kinesiologist at Thrive Urban Wellness
Are you looking for low-impact exercise to improve your health and fitness? Are you concerned or nervous about getting back into exercise after extended time away from it? If so, Nordic pole walking may be exactly what you are looking for.
Nordic pole walking, or Nordic walking, is a low-impact form of exercise that involves walking with a pair of poles customized to the participant’s height and stride length (think cross country skiing without skis or snow). In fact, Nordic pole walking was first introduced to athletes in the mid 1980’s by a cross country ski coach. It has only become more popular in North America over the past 10 years.
How would Nordic pole walking benefit you? Studies have shown that Nordic pole walking has several distinct health, fitness, and wellness benefits. Here are 5 reasons why you should consider Nordic Pole walking as a great form of physical activity for you:
Much like Cross Country skiing, Nordic Pole walking incorporates more than 90% of the muscles in your body. When compared to walking without poles, this represents an increase in muscular activation of 55%.
Nordic pole walking burns up to 46% more calories than regular walking or light jogging.
Nordic pole walking increases heart and cardiovascular training by 22%.
Nordic pole walking reduces the impact of exercise on your hips, knees, and feet.
The use of the poles promotes improved posture while delivering low impact upper body strengthening.
Regardless of your fitness level or skill you can easily participate in this activity. When compared to jogging or running, Nordic pole walking participants report a much lower level of perceived exertion. The intensity and style can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Thrive offers private instruction or group Nordic pole walking classes to help teach you how to use the poles properly and the basic walking technique. Although Nordic pole walking may seem simple it is highly recommended that you receive proper instruction before beginning this activity. Ensuring the equipment is adjusted to your needs and that you have the correct walking technique will maximize the benefits you experience!
You can schedule your class or appointment today at Thrive to begin your journey!