Nordic Walking utilizes specialized poles that take walking to a whole new level. Incorporating the poles increases the effectiveness of a typical walking program by increasing the use of the core and upper body muscles as well as by increasing calories burned without increasing perceived exertion. The activity has been popular in Europe and is now rapidly growing in the States.

Nordic walking has also been referred to as “fitness walking”, “walking with poles”, "walking with sticks" and "pole walking". In Europe it has been embraced as “summer skiing”. It began as a summer training exercise for “serious” cross-country skiers in Finland. Europeans recognized the many benefits of Nordic Walking and the sport quickly grew in popularity. Today, over 20% of the Fins Nordic Walk regularly. Approximately 8 million people enjoy Nordic Walking throughout Europe and those numbers continue to grow. Bernd Zimmerman, president of the American Nordic Walking Association reports that it is the fastest growing sport in the world.

Numerous research studies have verified the benefits and safety of Nordic Walking. The benefits of Nordic Walking have been researched at the famous Cooper Institute in Dallas by Dr. Timothy Church as well as by a group of professors at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and professors at Michigan State University, East Lansing. Each study came to similar conclusions. Nordic walkers burn 20-40% more calories than traditional walkers. They burn 420 or more calories per hour verses 350 calories for the walkers that don’t use poles. The Nordic Walkers also have a similar rise in their oxygen consumption. One of the best aspects of Nordic walking is that people don’t feel that they work any harder than traditional walkers but they reap more benefits.

LEKI, manufacturer of Nordic walking poles describes Nordic walking as “Like Walking Only Smarter”. The numerous added benefits make Nordic Walking “smarter” than traditional walking. Utilizing the poles allows one to thrust off the ground behind them and propel themselves forward. It provides an energizing whole body workout as 90% of the muscles are used. It tones the arms and upper body while actually decreasing the

stress on the ankles, knees, hips and lower back. The poles increase stability and balance,

which can provide additional security for those that need it. Walking with poles has been found to effectively release shoulder and neck tension. It works the core body muscles

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and when performed properly often improves posture. Nordic Walking can easily be enjoyed as a group offering positive social aspects in addition to the positive physical benefits. Young and old alike enjoy using the poles. It can be enjoyed by those that walk very slow or by those who enjoy going very fast. Best of all, most people that have tried Nordic Walking agree that utilizing poles makes walking more fun.

The prices of Nordic Walking poles vary depending on their composition and special features. Some of the special features include different handgrips, hand straps, the ability to adjust and lock the length of the pole, different tips and subtle differences in the design of the pole itself. It is important that the length of the poles is correct for each individual. They can be purchased in different lengths or as adjustable. Nordic Walking Poles are shorter than x-country ski poles because there isn’t a glide as there is when x-country skiing. LEKI Nordic Walking poles have a carbide tip covered with a removable rubber “paw”. The carbide tip is perfect for gripping soft trail surfaces while those that walk on sidewalks or asphalt will prefer to use the poles with the specialized rubber “paw”. These specially designed rubber tips are ideal for gripping and propulsion on harder surfaces. Specialized Nordic Walking Poles are engineered specifically for walking efficiently with poles and the subtle differences make them the ideal choice.

There are abundant reasons to try Nordic Walking. Once people try walking with poles it doesn’t take long for them to experience the positive benefits. The technique is simple to learn and requires just a few essential instructions for effective results. Best of all, it’s fun! Add poles to your walk and experience a whole new level of walking and wellness.

ABOUT REVEL SPORTS

Bonnie and Perry are the co-owners and operators of this online aerobic sports site. The mission of Revel Sports is to celebrate the spirit of participation by providing quality technical clothing, accessories, and gifts to athletes everywhere. Our motto is to “Pick Your Passion and Revel in it!” We encourage all people to find an aerobic activity in which they feel passionate to participate and “revel” in regularly. Bonnie and Perry are both LEKI certified Nordic Walking instructors.