NORDIC/WELLNESS WALKS

WHAT IS NORDIC WALKING?

Nordic Walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking – it makes something we can all do… twice as effective! Nordic Walking uses poles in order to add three major benefits to walking.

• The use of poles means the upper body muscles are used as well as the legs.  This gives a full body workout which burns more calories.
• The poles create stability when walking on uneven ground, when people suffer from poor balance or when walking on a slippery surface such as ice or mud.
• The poles take weight off the hips, knees and ankles which allows people who are rehabbing from an injury, or joint replacement to walk more easily, further and slightly faster.
• The poles can be used to propel the walker along – this means he/she works harder than usual yet the support given by the poles makes it feel easier!  It’s possible to cover twice the distance on your usual walk.

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

Nordic Walking is first taught using urban poles which have a ledge instead of a strap to support the hand.

Some people prefer to stay with the strapless urban poles and others, who are looking for a fitness activity to increase cardiovascular fitness, transition to Nordic Poles using a strap for support instead of the ledge.

Both sets of poles place a lot of importance on the natural alignment of the wrist.

In order to get the most out of the poles, its important to join an introductory session.  These last 90 minutes and include the use of urban poles with the option to try Nordic Walking poles at the end of the session to see which they prefer..

After your introductory session you will be able to join a regular Urban Poling/Nordic Walking Group.  Groups vary from wellness to fitness walking and usually take place in scenic countryside and on pathways.