Walking poles take nordic wellness global
More walkers are embracing a surprisingly effective trend: Nordic walking. Forget a casual stroll – this exercise is transforming how people approach their daily steps.
A nordic secret weapon
Originally a training technique for elite cross-country skiers, Nordic walking utilizes specialized poles to engage the upper body alongside your legs, offering a full-body workout with minimal impact. It’s no longer just a Scandinavian secret; it’s gaining traction worldwide.
“What started as a training method for elite athletes has become one of the most accessible forms of exercise in the Nordic countries because it’s low-impact, easy to do, and suitable for people of almost any age and Fitness level,” explains Nicoline Roth, CEO and founder of NRTHRN Strong. “It’s a great example of how movement can be both highly effective and something you can do for life.”
The benefits are clear
The appeal isn’t just about aesthetics. Nordic walking provides a wealth of health benefits. According to Heather Viola, DO, assistant professor of general internal medicine at Mount Sinai, it “reducing pressure on your knees and lower-body joints, improving your balance and stability, especially on any uneven trails, engaging all the muscles in your upper body for a full workout, improving endurance and making uphill climbs easier, providing extra support on downhill sections.”
Dr. Viola emphasizes that it’s a fantastic option for recreational walkers, older adults seeking stability, and those recovering from injuries. “A walking stick gives you an extra point of support, which can help you feel steadier and more confident,” she states. “Over long distances, this can [also] help reduce fatigue and make walking feel more comfortable.”
Beyond the workout
Roth adds that Nordic walking encourages people to spend more time outdoors. “In Scandinavia, movement is often woven into everyday life rather than treated as something that only happens inside a gym,” she says. “It’s a reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated – move often, build strength, spend time outdoors when you can, and find a community that makes movement something you genuinely look forward to.”
Getting started – and avoiding pitfalls
However, Nordic walking isn’t for everyone. “They take a little practice to use correctly,” cautions Dr. Viola. “And using them the wrong way can make walking feel awkward or less effective.” Individuals with shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand injuries should proceed with caution, as poles could exacerbate discomfort. Balance issues, severe arthritis, or other mobility concerns also warrant careful consideration.
“When used correctly, Nordic walking poles should feel like they help your walking flow rather than interrupt it,” Dr. Viola explains. Roth’s NRTHRN Strong classes, incorporating cross-country skiing movements with their trainer machine, provide a full-body, low-impact workout. So, whether you choose traditional Nordic walking or a more intense approach, it’s a viable way to elevate your daily stride.
A final thought
Ultimately, the Nordic approach reminds us that wellness isn’t about complicated routines; it’s about integrating movement into our lives. Don’t just walk – Nordic walk.