About Nordic Walking

Nordic Walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking – it makes something we learn to do as babies twice as effective!

Nordic Walking is a specific fitness technique and is not to be confused with trekking, hill walking or trail running as the poles are not planted in front of the walker but in a way that increases the use of the upper body. Nordic Walking technique must be learnt correctly if the walker is to get the most out of the activity.

Great for all fitness levels & abilities

Nordic Walking is unique in that it provides health & fitness benefits for everybody from those with medical problems to the super fit. Whatever age, fitness level or goal – Nordic Walking is suitable, effective and enjoyable.

Offers many physical benefits including

• Tones the upper and lower body at the same time
• Uses 90% of the skeletal muscles
• Burns up to 46% more calories than ordinary walking
• Reduces the pressure on knees and joints
• Great for the heart and lungs
• Ideal for neck, shoulder and back problems
• The poles help to propel the walker along – this means that although they are moving faster and working harder than usual, the support given by the poles makes it feel easier!

Other benefits

• It can be done anywhere – no need for hills, country paths or even snow!
• It appeals to all ages and fitness levels.
• No need to wear special exercise clothing, only good comfortable footwear required!
• It is very sociable; participants can chat as they go!
• It is easy to learn and to keep up.
• It combines exercise with the outdoors which has been proven to boost mood and relieve stress.

A little bit of history

Nordic Walking was developed in the 1960s as a summer training method for very fit competitive cross country skiers in Finland who started to use poles in their training when there was no snow. They soon realised the technique was a perfect training aid that kept their heart and lungs in top condition, and ensured upper and lower body muscles remained in top shape off season. Nordic Walking quickly became a popular fitness method for the general public too, and has a great following across Scandinavia, mainland Europe, North America and as far away as in Japan! It is fast gaining popularity in the UK and London too!