What are the Health Benefits of Nordic Walking?
Nordic walking originated in Finland, and quickly spread across Europe, growing in popularity before crossing the Atlantic and making it to the United States. It is popular due in part to its ease and accessibility; because people walk every day, a person of any age or condition can benefit. With consistency and proper form, the benefits of Nordic walking can compare to those from other types of cardiovascular workout.
A proper Nordic walking regimen can contribute to an increased sense of well-being and be the beginning of a healthier lifestyle. When done correctly, it can increase aerobic fitness, mobility and both lower and upper-body strength. Walking with the specially-designed poles will help one maintain proper posture, improve stability and reduce impact on the joints of the ankles, feet, knees, and hips.
Nordic walkers use up to 90% of the muscles in their bodies, toning the arms, stomach, back and chest and often ridding themselves of shoulder and neck pain. A Cooper Institute study compared Nordic walking with regular walking, and the study showed that oxygen intake, energy use and heart rate increased markedly.
A 30-minute Nordic walk provides a benefit comparable to that of a fifty-minute conventional walk; the exertion of the upper body burns up to 40% more calories. Programs allow walkers to start at a lower intensity and progress gradually, and it is excellent therapy for those with balance or orthopedic issues, or those that have heart problems, joint or muscle soreness.
Although Nordic walking forces the body to work harder, those that do it regularly say that they don't even notice the extra work they are doing. Once used to the program, Nordic walking feels much the same as a brisk walk. Walking with a friend keeps the pace comfortable, and doing so allows the walker to expand their social circle while getting in a good workout.