Nordic walking is a low-impact form of exercise with significant cardiovascular and overall health benefits. Walking Nordic-style can increase the number of calories you burn with every mile, in addition to improving your posture and muscle tone. Nordic walking was invented in Finland in the early twentieth century, and has since become a popular international sport.
Background
Nordic walking was invented in Finland during the 1920s by cross-country skiers who wanted to continue training outside the snowy season, according the BBC. Nordic walkers hold poles -- similar to those used in skiing -- as they walk across the terrain. Nordic walking exercises the same muscles as cross-country skiing, providing a thorough workout for the upper and lower body. The action of Nordic walking is also similar to skiing.
International Development
Nordic walking started to gain popularity outside of Finland during the 1980s as Europeans who were not cross-country skiers took to Nordic walking as a form of recreational exercise. In 1997, Exel PLC -- a ski pole manufacturing company -- developed a special commercial pole intended specifically for Nordic walking. Nordic walking classes were offered in London for the first time in 2001, and the organization Nordic Walking UK started up in 2004. The sport gained popularity in the United States, and the American Nordic Walking Association was set up in 2006. Nordic Walking UK estimates that as of December 2010, there are some 10 million regular Nordic walkers worldwide.
Equipment
The special Nordic walking poles are the most visible piece of specialist equipment necessary for the sport. These poles typically have rubber ends which provide grip on the terrain. These can be removed to use spiked pole ends which stick into wet or snowy ground. Flexible walking or running shoes are preferred over walking boots by some Nordic walking instructors, as walking boots tend to be relatively inflexible. Waterproof clothing may be necessary for Nordic walking in damp or rainy locations.
Benefits
According to Nordic walking instructor Caroline Moncrieff, your body burns 40 percent more calories during Nordic walking in comparison to non-Nordic walking. Moncreiff states that Nordic walking also improves your posture while strengthening your back and upper arms, and recommends Nordic walking for older individuals, as using all four of your limbs to propel yourself across the terrain reduces the strain on your body. The American Nordic Walking Association indicates that Nordic walking is beneficial for weight loss and for improving your muscle tone.
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