NORDIC/WELLNESS WALKS

WEDNESDAYS 2-3PM

This is a weekly Wellness WALX on flat ground at an easy/moderate pace

SATURDAYS 11-12.30 PM

This is a weekly Nordic WALX on flat ground at an easy/moderate pace

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.

How & Why I Started Nordic Walking

“Take up Nordic Walking?  No Way!”  I said.

When I returned to the UK in 2010 after working and living overseas, I was recommended by my peers to add Nordic Walking to my instructor tool box.

I was totally not interested in walking with poles….until I tried it. I was amazed at what a good workout it was and how it made regular walking so much easier… The rest is history.

I now use my poles religiously when I go on challenging walks and have been teaching Nordic Walking for over 10 years.

Where Does Nordic Walking Come From?

Nordic Walking owes it roots to cross country skiing, used as a summer training exercise for skiers to maintain their fitness during the snowfree months. But don’t panic! It is as easy or as hard as you want to make it!  However, it is important to be taught the correct technique using proper Nordic Walking poles in order to enjoy effective and safe walking (see course information below).

Why You Should Choose

Nordic Walking

 
If you answer yes to any of the following then Nordic Walking is definitelty for you!

• Hate going to the Gym
• Feel lethargic and sluggish
• Want to lose a few pounds
• Want to feel more toned
• Want to feel better about yourself