The Skinny on Nordic Walking

If you want a good workout without exerting extra energy, or want an exercise that reduces neck and shoulder pain while providing a good workout, Nordic walking may be just the ticket for you.

You can try out the idea with a couple of ski poles, although to really do it right you’ll need a set of specially designed poles. Although you won’t feel like you’re working any harder, using those poles will increase your heart rate. For those who want to increase their exertion without feeling the effort, this is a nice alternative to weight vests or simply walking faster.

Nordic walking is a great way to put your arm, shoulders and upper chest through a full range of motion. Back muscles will also benefit, as you stretch and lengthen the muscles in your upper torso. Office workers who sit hunched over the computer all day will find Nordic walking to be a great way to loosen those tight neck and shoulder muscles, not to mention relieving those nagging knots that seem to reside in their backs.

Nordic walking poles take the pressure off sore knees, and can also help balance-challenged individuals maintain stability (even in rugged terrain). Nordic walking is also a great help for encouraging better posture.

If you:

·         Have given up recreational walking because of balance problems or worn-out knees
·         Want to improve your posture
·         Desire a more intensive workout without increasing your speed, or
·         Want to work out your arm, shoulder, back, and chest muscles while taking your daily walk,

Why not give Nordic walking a try? The poles are quite inexpensive, and the benefits make this form of walking very worthwhile.