What is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking is defined as fitness walking with specially designed poles. It evolved from an off-season ski-training activity known as ski walking, and has become a way of exercising year-round.

Nordic Walking works your upper and lower body. It uses most of the body’s muscles, toning legs, buttocks, chest, shoulders and particularly the backs of the arms. It burns more calories than ordinary walking and helps condition the abdominal muscles that provide core stability.

By using poles, walkers burn more calories as they use their upper body muscles as well as their legs. The result is an increased heart rate without an increase in perceived exertion. The action of swinging the arms and the gentle upper body rotation can decrease neck and shoulder tension, making Nordic Walking the ideal workout for desk- and computer-bound workers. Nordic walking is a fitness activity, a great way to get exercise, and a terrific way to take an average walk to the next level. 

It is also the perfect activity to boost your mood, as it combines the psychological benefits of a great but gentle exercise with the joy of being outside in the fresh air!
 

Benefits of Nordic Walking

  • It increases cardiovascular demand and increases calorie consumption.

  • It can decrease neck and shoulder tension and help the abdominal muscles that provide core stability.

  • It increases overall stamina and muscle endurance.

  • It can improve both your posture and balance.

  • Nordic walking is a perfect activity for combining the mental health benefits of exercise with those of being outdoor.

  • It can be done anywhere and is suitable for most fitness levels.

  • There is no need to wear special exercise clothing.

  • It is a social activity, as participants can chat as they go.

  • It is an activity which is easy to learn and carry on.

  • It is a safe, fun and gentle body workout.

Information on Nordic Walking can be found in many books and on various internet sites. You can find an interesting list of publications on the health effects of Nordic Walking under these links: