Nordic Walking: A History
Nordic Walking as a form of exercise first gained popularity in Finland as a regimen to keep cross country skiers in shape during the summer months. Though the term “Nordic Walking” originated in Finland and that is where the sport really took off, the concept of walking with specially designed fitness poles was first promoted by an American named Tom Rutlin in 1988. Rutland’s walking method, which he called “Exerstriding,” was featured in a 1988 article in The Capital Times (of Madison, Wisconsin) and also in a July, 1989 German edition of Esquire magazine.
Shortly after that article was published, a Finnish ski equipment manufacturer (Excel) picked up on the idea and launched a line of specially designed fitness or Nordic Walking poles. Exel’s wrist straps were a breakthrough in Nordic Walking technique, which Exel marketed through its newly launched International Nordic Walking Association (INWA).
Through the INWA, Exel offered a Nordic Walking training program. INWA instructors taught people how to Nordic Walk, and these people purchased Nordic Walking poles. Exel’s marketing strategy was immensely successful, which is why Exel can take much of the credit for the worldwide success of Nordic Walking today.
Tom Rutlands’ line of fitness walking poles, marketed under the Exerstrider brand name, did not include wrist straps. Although some debate exists about who first developed the concept of fitness or Nordic Walking, the correct answer is that Rutlin was on the right track (minus wrist straps), but Exel developed the sport and took it to new heights through a combination of their breakthrough wrist strap development and savvy marketing strategies.
Nordic, Schmordic—Why Would I Walk With Poles?
Walking is pretty hard work, especially for those of us who might be hauling the equivalent of an extra hundred pound bag of taters around. Which is why any sedentary gal (like me) has to naturally wonder—if it’s so much work just to put one foot in front of the other, why would I bother to bump it up by walking with a set of sticks?
Why indeed! Since my strategy of choice happens to be getting rid of the baggage that burdens my stomach (and hips and thighs and a few other unmentionable places), any activity that melts more calories while I’m taking my daily stroll is certainly of interest to me. And burn more calories Nordic walking does (although just how many I’ll leave for another post).
As an added side benefit, Nordic walking might also mend your shoulder and back pain, all without making you break so much as a sweat. And if you’re tempted to take a tumble, your poles may even break the fall (if you don’t get poked in the process). Hey–they might even come in handy for scaring that yapping rascal who keeps trying to sink his teeth into my cosmetically altered leg (not that I’d actually hit the little feller—but his face is invading my space).
True, I feel a bit self-conscious when taking a Nordic walk. I wouldn’t go swinging those sticks at Macey’s, or even the streets of New York (though I hear there are plenty of stranger things going on in that city). But anything that works my arm, shoulder, and upper chest muscles without making me sore surely seems worth a try.
Yep—I’m all revved up and ready to go just now. Too bad it’s already dark—guess I’ll have to wait ‘til tomorrow. Will keep you posted, however, as things progress (or regress, depending on your perspective).
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.