Fitness through Nordic Walking

Try Nordic walking, if you want a simple yet effective way to keep fit. It’s an exercise that adds a twist to ordinary walking by using specialist poles, which are similar to ski poles. It can be considered as a whole body sport.

The good news is you don’t have to be an athlete to do Nordic walking. Anyone can take up the sport, regardless of age or fitness level. What’s more, you don’t need costly equipment to get into the action.

Nordic walking originated in Finland in the 1930s when cross-country skiers used their poles for off-season training exercises. They quickly realized that the sport was excellent for full body conditioning.

In 1997, Finnish sports experts formalized this technique by developing specialised poles for the activity. This marked a milestone in the history of the sport – the Nordic walking technique, as we know it today, was born.

The sport quickly gained popularity in Europe as millions discovered it’s effective, yet easy and fun to do.

So it came as no surprise that, this whole body workout soon gained huge numbers of followers worldwide. Today, nearly 10 million people around the world do this form of exercise regularly.

Why choose Nordic walking, and not your ordinary walking workout? Well, Nordic walking shakes up your usual exercise routine by engaging muscles in both the upper and lower body, giving you a great cardiovascular workout.

In fact, Nordic walking is so much more effective than normal walking that it can zap up to 46% more calories!

What’s more, using the poles propel you along, making it feel easier when you’re actually working harder. Plus, using the poles minimise the impact on your knees and joints.

And it’s not just your body that benefits from Nordic walking. The sport is also a wonderful mood-booster. Done at a high intensity, it will release natural mood-enhancing chemicals called endorphins, which make you feel calm and at ease.

With all these benefits, the sport is amazingly versatile – it can be done anywhere and is easy to pick up. You don’t have to be an athlete to take up Nordic walking – it suits all ages and fitness levels.

All you need to get started is a pair of Nordic walking poles. The cost starts from about $50 – far cheaper than what you would have to fork out for an expensive gym membership.

It is important to get the correct length pole to match your height. For the best fit, ask the store assistant for help on sizing.

When you’re ready to get moving, start by warming up and then walking the way you usually do. Though Nordic walking exaggerates your gait, it doesn’t mean you have to learn a whole new way to walk.

Just lean forward slightly, while holding the poles and your hands close to your body. Get into a steady rhythm as you coordinate the movement of your right hand with your left foot and vice versa. Keep the poles aligned with your body and push into the straps as you step forward.

Once you get the hang of it, you will enjoy the multiple benefits that Nordic walking has to offer. There are few easier ways to tone up and shape up, while having fun at the same time! So Start Nordic walking today!