2 December, 2023
As a new year begins many of us set resolutions to prioritize our health and fitness. If you’re looking for a fun and effective way to get fit, Nordic Walking might just be the perfect activity for you.
Combining the benefits of walking with the added intensity of using poles, Nordic Walking offers a fantastic full-body workout that can help you achieve your fitness goals. One of the great things about Nordic Walking is how accessible it is.
You don’t need any expensive equipment or specialist skills, just a pair of comfortable walking shoes and a pair of Nordic Walking poles. Once you’re kitted out, you’re ready to kick-start your fitness journey!
Nordic Walking is a low-impact exercise that puts less strain on your joints compared to high-impact activities like running or tennis.
The use of poles helps distribute the workload evenly throughout your body reducing the risk of injuries and making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Whether you’re at the beginning of your fitness journey, injured from another sport or looking for longevity in older age, Nordic Walking can be tailored to fit your individual needs and abilities.
What sets Nordic Walking apart from regular walking is the engagement of your upper body muscles, by using poles to push off the ground with each step, you activate your arms, shoulders and core turning a simple walk into a full-body workout.
This means you’ll be toning more muscles and burning more calories than regular walking. Nordic Walking engages 90% of your skeletal muscles! It’s a great way to strengthen your muscles, improve your cardiovascular fitness and even aid in weight loss.
Aside from the physical benefits Nordic Walking also offers mental and emotional well-being. Being outdoors, surrounded by nature or in green spaces has a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and boosting mood. Walking is known to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormones) in your body!
The rhythmic motion of Nordic Walking combined with the fresh air can help clear your mind and bring a sense of relaxation and mindfulness. Nordic Walking can also be a great social activity too, joining a group can encourage you to continue your fitness journey when you might be tempted to stop if going solo.
So as you embark on your fitness journey in 2024, consider giving Nordic Walking a try! It’s a friendly and accessible activity that can help you get fit while enjoying the outdoors.
With dedication and consistency Nordic Walking can be a fantastic way to achieve your fitness goals and make 2024 your healthiest one yet!
Nordic Nomads run regular Nordic Walking Classes in and around Tetbury, Malmesbury, Corsham and at Westonbirt Arboretum.
They hold Beginner’s Courses at most of these locations throughout the year.
Visit their website for the latest information about courses and classes or find them on Facebook and Instagram.
Outside & Active is the home for those who love the outdoors. Our mission is to inspire, inform and educate people about being active outdoors in a fun, safe and sustainable way. We provide inspiration, kit, tech and advice on adventure, camping, climbing, cycling, hiking, running water and winter.
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