More on Nordic Walking

Nordic walking can indeed play a vital role in almost anyone's health and fitness program. Below is my view on who may benefit, and how. Please CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR before starting any new exercise, including Nordic walking - especially if you have any health issues.


• Anyone currently walking for fitness: You're already walking to get - or stay - fit, why not get more out of it and save time while actually reducing stress on your knees and joints.

• Low-impact exercise for weight loss & general health: This is a time-efficient total-body exercise you can actually enjoy.

• Former runners or runners in pain: If you experience a lot of pain in your knees and joints from running, but walking doesn't seem like 'enough', this is for you. By increasing the intensity of your pole-plants, you can get an aerobic workout similar to running without the joint pain. Plus you get the added bonus of toning the muscles in your arms and upper body.

• Rehab from surgery: From knee and hip replacements to heart surgery, and all things in-between, Nordic walking has proven to be popular in rehab situations. It's an easy, efficient exercise and the poles not only take stress off your lower-body joints but also provide extra balance and stability.

• Recovery from pregnancy: An easy, body-friendly way to burn more calories, faster, to help you get to your desired weight and total-body fitness level after pregnancy. Some also use the poles during pregnancy, appreciating the added balance, stability and joint-relief.

• Serious Athletes: Some athletes use it as a low-impact cross-training exercise to round out their fitness program.

• Trend-setters: Some people just like to keep up with the times. Many consider this modern way to walk the 'new' yoga / pilates / spinning / etc. If that's your reason for Nordic walking, more power to you.

Text courtsey of Boomyah International.