Just like walking, NORDIC WALKING is an activity that is suitable for all. In fact, because the use of poles reduces the load on the knees and other joints, for many it is actually a preferable option.
The basic technique is simple. As you stride with your left foot, you bring your right arm and pole forward and vice versa, meaning that your torso is constantly swinging from one side to the other.
Part of the sport's popularity is due to the health benefits involved, which are considerably greater than those of normal walking. Not only does it improve your endurance, strengthen and tone the muscles in the upper body, arms and legs (including the pectorals and glutei), and release muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, but it also provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, getting your heart beating an average 5-17 times more per minute than normal walking.
These benefits are directly attributable to the use of poles, which improve your posture and, by propelling your body forward and thus increasing the length of your stride, help you walk faster.
Furthermore, simply using poles means you consume about 20% more calories than normal walking, and if you combine this with the effects of walking faster, you actually burn up to 46% more energy than when you walk normally, according to some research. For maximum benefit, you should walk for at least thirty minutes at a time.
Well - that's Nordic Walking. To get right into it, have a look at http://www.nordicacademy.com.au/ . There you will find more information about poles and will most likely find an instructor in your area.
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