NORDIC WALKING
Form of recreation based on marches with special poles.
In comparison to ordinary walking, Nordic walking involves applying force to poles on both sides, which is why people who practice Nordic walking to a greater extent, though less intensively, engage the muscles of the body. Muscles (including chest, triceps, biceps, arms and stomach) are also stimulated differently than in a normal walk. This leads to greater their amplification than with ordinary walking or jogging.
Especially:
- develops the strength and endurance of the arms,
- develops the easiness of climbing the hills,
- more calories are burned than in normal walking,
- stability increases when walking with poles,
- reduces pressure on the shins, knees, hips and back, which gives benefits to people with weaker joints and not strong muscles,
- joints are relieved, which is especially important for older people.
An important factor is the possibility of practising by almost everyone - regardless of age, condition or weight. It's good to start practising Nordic walking under the supervision of an instructor who will teach you the right walking technique and help you choose the right poles.
Research has shown that good Nordic walking technique helps achieve health benefits such as improving the respiratory and cardiovascular system, relieving the joints, including the lower spine, increasing the oxygen consumption by 20-58 percent, depending on the intensity of sticking the poles. It also develops all the muscles of the lower limbs, extensorum of the upper limbs, strengthens the muscles of the trunk, arms and shoulders, increases the mobility of the upper spine and relieves muscle tone in the shoulder area. The small load on the joints of people doing Nordic walking makes it recommended for obese people. It does not worsen the condition of aching joints, especially knee joints. In addition, in comparison with ordinary walking, Nordic walking enthusiasts burn on average between 20 and 40% more calories. Poles also help to maintain a better posture, balance and stability while walking in difficult terrain