The name Nordic Walking already implies its origin: the North - to be more precisely, it comes from Finland. Nordic Walking is a special form of walking which incorporates the use of poles to increase one’s fitness level. It all started when ski athletes in Finland needed a routine to work on their fitness during the summer months. They went on mile-long walks and used ski poles to work out their upper body and arm muscles. Soon it became apparent that this type of walking is a great full body workout that is both, time-efficient and health-promoting.
Over the years Nordic Walking gained tremendous popularity throughout Europe and is becoming now more and more popular in North America as well. It is a great exercise for burning calories and building cardio-vascular fitness, while reducing stress on the joints. The latter aspect is especially beneficial for the overweight, who find it hard to walk for long periods of time. With the help of the poles the body’s weight can be balanced more evenly taking away pressure from the hips, knees and ankles. Therefore, Nordic Walking is a comfortable, yet effective exercise for weight loss. In addition, it strengthens the upper body and abdominal muscles and increases the physical endurance in as little as three months. It is also a great stress-reliever, especially after a hard day at the office: a walk fills up your oxygen tanks, calms your anxiety and lets your stress fade away.
Nordic Walking is a social sport. You can walk with your friends or family members and the relatively slow pace allows you to have a convenient conversation. That way you can do both, socialize and improve your well-being. If interested, the YMCA of the Suncoast offers Nordic Walking classes. The North Pinellas Branch meets every Saturday at the John Chestnut Park in Palm Harbor at 8.45am till 10am - you are welcome to join! The walking poles will be provided. You can call (727) 772 9622 for more information. So what are you waiting for? Put on your walking shoes and go!!!
“Health is not simply the absence of sickness.”
- Hannah Green (born 1932), American Author
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