Over 145 million adults include walking in their exercise regime, and at least 60 percent of people walk for fun, to get from place to place, or to relax. Walking is one of the very best exercises you can participate in to improve your health. It’s low-impact and free of cost, and you can control the speed and intensity of movement. According to the Better Health Channel, walking:
— Improves cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness
— Lessens your risk of heart disease and stroke
— Strengthens bones
— Improves balance
— Decreases body fat
— Strengthens muscles
Also, regular walking can help you manage hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and pain and stiffness in your joints and muscles.
To receive the health benefits of walking, it’s necessary to walk for at least 30 minutes per day, two or three days a week, but even a 10-minute walking spurt is good for you.
“People who are physically active live longer and have a lower risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers.” — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
What are the Benefits of Nordic Walking?
Have you ever heard of Nordic walking? It is “a hybrid of walking and cross country-skiing,” stated PhysioCanHelp.ca. “…Nordic walking is a fluid movement experience that uses almost every muscle in your body…”
The benefits of Nordic walking, cited by the Nordic Academy, are impressive. Nordic walking:
- Activates 90 percent of your muscles
- Burns up to 46 percent more calories than typical walking
- Increases aerobic effect by up to 25 percent compared to regular walking
- Decreases wear and tear from strain on your lower body
- Strengthens upper arms, shoulders, and back muscles
- Improves the lateral mobility of the spine
- Develops strength and core stability
- Promotes good posture
Learn more about the benefits of Nordic walking here.
Equipment You’ll Need for Nordic Walking
There is one major difference between Nordic walking and regular walking: Nordic walking requires the use of Nordic walking poles.
“Nordic walking poles aren’t hiking or ski poles: they’re poles designed to use when walking or hiking that, when combined with the proper form, can instantly rev up the intensity of your movement and also challenge your upper body and core muscles,” stated What Type of Walking Offers a Big Boost to Your Health? Nordic walking poles vary in cost, but many brands are inexpensive.
If you are looking for a way to increase your strength and cardiovascular endurance, Nordic walking could be the perfect exercise for you to take up this summer and fall.