What Is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking

Nordic walking is trekking with special poles that look similar to skiing or running poles. It looks easy enough, but it is actually a very effective way of keeping fit, losing excess weight and at the same time enjoying time outdoors and with friends. Nordic walking can be practiced all year long, at any age and practically anywhere – on flat land or in the mountains.

Where Did Nordic Walking Come From?

Nordic walking is a new sport first introduced in Finland during the 80s. It originated as an off-season training method for cross-country skiers, spreading through Scandinavia first (hence the name). Because of its simplicity, effectiveness and enjoyability, it soon became popular across Europe. Nordic walking is especially popular in German speaking countries, but Czechs are beginning to catch on, too.

Who Is Nordic Walking For?

Because the activity is so simple, affordable, and most of all, effective, Nordic walking is part of a small group of sports that are suitable for practically everyone. Nordic walking can be practiced by children or seniors, the overweight or those who should work on strengthening their figure, professional athletes or people with a desk job. It is also recommended as a rehabilitation exercise after an injury.

What's the Purpose of Nordic Poles?

The poles are the key aspect of this sport, since walking with Nordic poles will result in burning up to 40% more calories than regular walking.

If you use the correct technique when walking with poles, you will almost effortlessly multiply the effect of regular walking. Proper parallel leg and arm movement engages 600 muscles, which is 90% of all the muscles in your body. At the same time, your heart rate frequency stays in a comfortable range. You can burn up to 400 calories per hour this way.

Relevant information:

• What's the difference between trekking and Nordic poles?