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What Are the Health Benefits of Nordic Walking?

Nordic walking is a versatile & accessible activity that offers multiple health benefits for people of all ages & fitness levels. Here are 6 key advantages to adding Nordic walking poles to your next walk.

  1. Increased cardiovascular fitness

    Nordic walking engages both the lower and upper body, providing a full-body workout that can improve heart health and circulation.

  2. Enhanced muscular strength and endurance

    Proper Nordic walking technique engages the arms, shoulders, core, and legs leading to improved strength and endurance.

  3. Improved posture

    Nordic walking improves posture by engaging the muscles between the shoulder blades, which are key in pulling the shoulders back and into proper alignment.

  4. Decreased impact on joints

    Nordic walking poles help distribute the impact forces of walking—moving some of the forces away from the legs and into the poles —reducing stress on the knees, hips and back.

  5. Increased calorie burn

    Because the upper body is involved in the activity, Nordic walking can burn considerably more calories than regular walking.

  6. Improved mental health

    Being active in the out-of-doors—on your own, with a friend, or in a group, and especially in nature and with an elevated heartrate—helps to reduce stress and improve mood.

Barb Gormley

Barb Gormley is a Toronto, Canada, Nordic walking instructor and master trainer, virtual group exercise instructor, and author.