- What Is Nordic Walking (GB)

What is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking uses specially designed poles to enhance your natural walking experience. With a technique that is similar to the upper body action of classic cross country skiing, Nordic Walking becomes a genuinely whole body exercise that can be enjoyed at many levels, from walking for health to athletic Nordic running. More than 10 million people globally enjoy this outdoor activity all year round.

How will it benefit my body?

Nordic Walking combines the simplicity and accessibility of walking with simultaneous core and upper body conditioning similar to Nordic skiing. The result is a full body workout, which means that you:

• burn up to 45% more calories compared to walking without poles

• release tension in the neck and shoulders

• improve your posture and gait

• strengthen your back and abdominal muscles

• reduce the impact on the joints

Is it for me?

Nordic Walking is a very accessible activity and something that can be shared by people of different fitness levels. It’s an ideal activity for people who haven’t exercised for a while or who dislike traditional sports or gym activities. An injured person can use the poles to support and guide, working to improve fitness as part of their rehabilitation. Community groups find it a sociable way to keep fit. If you’d like to shed a few pounds, then Nordic Walking is an enjoyable way to do this. It’s great for fitness enthusiasts who like to try new things. Whatever your age, you’ll probably enjoy discovering the benefits of Nordic Walking that improve your quality of life.

Nordic Walking Poles

Nordic Walking poles are very different from trekking or walking poles. On the most part Nordic Walking poles are a much lighter weight and have a specialist strap as opposed to just a looped strap. Often Nordic Walking poles have an ergonomically shaped handle, and are left and right hand specific. A removable shaped rubber ‘paw’ covers the tungsten carbide tip of the pole to facilitate walking on hard surfaces such as pavements. A good quality pole will have an element of carbon in their composition. The carbon content of the pole affects weight, the power transfer and the shock absorbency.

Footwear & clothing

You don’t need specialist footwear & clothing for Nordic Walking but there is some great kit out there that will keep you comfortable and dry.

We recommend you Nordic Walk in shoes rather than boots and a waterproof breathable Nordic Walking shoe is ideal. Layered clothing will allow you to adjust to the weather without restricting movement.