WHAT IS NORDIC WALKING?
Nordic Walking dates back to the 1930’s when Finnish cross country skiers used it for cross training in the periods when there was no snow on the ground. They soon discovered that those that participated had a massive advantage when the season started once again. It had kept their fitness levels in excellent condition.
Nordic Walking is an enhancement to ordinary walking – it makes something we can all do even more effective and almost anyone can do it; from those with medical problems to those who are super fit.
Nordic Walking poles are used which help to propel the walker along – therefore working harder than usual – yet the support of the poles makes it seem easier! With the correct technique the upper body gets a work out, including the strengthening of the back, shoulders and arms, as well as the lower body. Nordic Walking is used by individuals, personal trainers, physiotherapists, doctors and health promoters because it is extremely effective, affordable and great fun.
We reap the benefits of being outside in Nature, it can be a wonderful social activity, or for some being with yourself within the safety of a group can be more appealing. It can be done by all ages and all levels of fitness.
WHY SHOULD I TRY IT?
Nordic Walking provides benefits for ALL, as it:
• Is easy to learn and maintain as a form of exercise
• Improves the muscles of the arms, shoulders, chest, back and abdomen
• Uses almost all of the skeletal muscles
• Enhances co-ordination
• Is less stressful than other forms of exercise, especially on the back, knees, hips and shins
• It improves cardio-vascular fitness, great for the heart and lungs
• A fantastic way to get yourself outside, get yourself active and meet new people
• Burns almost twice as many calories than ordinary walking
• Last, but certainly not least, it is FUN!
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?
We offer private one to one or group sessions.
It is also a fantastic idea when used as a team building exercise for staff within businesses, particularly when integrated with some mindfulness and yoga. This combination will give something for everyone to enjoy, and can provide motivation, boost moral, decrease levels of stress and is also great fun! As a result team members may wish to consider a healthier and more active lifestyle, improving overall health and well being.
I really enjoyed the course and have found a great improvement in my posture when Nordic Walking. This technique is fantastic at improving upper body fitness and the Nordic Walking poles really do reduce weight through the hips, knees and ankles. I have been recommending Nordic Walking to my patients with knee problems to safely promote their fitness levels.
Simon Ellis (Consultant Knee Surgeon)
I enjoy Nordic walking as it stretches and tones my whole body in addition to giving me an aerobic workout. Using Nordic Walking poles not only gives support but allows me to increase my walking speed safely to get the most out of my exercise. Having a busy office-based job I find the combination of a full body exercise in the fresh air, through beautiful countryside very rewarding for mind, body and spirit.
Sarah Megson, age 41 University Administration Manager