Nordic walking brings whole new level of fitness

The main complaint shared by Nordic walkers is that people often ask them, "What the heck are you doing with those poles?" Or, worse, "Hey, where's the snow?"

Nordic walking originated in Finland, where competitive Nordic skiers began using their poles to help train during the off-season. What they discovered was a full-body workout utilizing more muscle groups than walking alone. This form of exercise became all the rage in Europe, with both skiers and non-skiers donning poles for a better workout.

This sport has now caught on in the U.S., as proponents of the sport share their passion for "pole-walking." Local Nordic walker and pediatrician with Sandpoint Pediatrics and Bonner General Hospital, Dr. Robin Helm, is a prime example of a passionate (and very fit) Nordic walker. Both Helm and her husband are planning to race in the upcoming Portland Marathon's Nordic walking division.

"The sport is growing here (in the U.S.), but many people who see us out walking are still confused as to why we're dragging around these poles," laughed Helm.

Now is the perfect time to shed a little light on the subject. Nordic walking is beneficial because it combines the heart-healthy benefits of walking with the total-body exercise of Nordic skiing, resulting in up to 40 percent more calories burned. The truly great part, however, is that this feat is accomplished without any more perceived exertion.

Nordic walking is good for people of all ages and ability levels, even those who have suffered a lower-body injury in the past. The poles act as shock absorbers, easing strain on the lower body and providing extra stability on any kind of terrain. They also help firm up arms, improve posture, and ease muscle tension in the back and shoulders.

The resistance provided by the poles is where the additional benefit comes in, making the poles the most important (and indeed only) piece of equipment in Nordic walking. Therefore, it is important that the right kind of pole is used and that the poles are properly fitted.

Though the sport originated using Nordic ski poles, specialized lightweight walking poles with wrist straps have now been developed, designed specifically for Nordic walking.

The poles should be about 70 percent of the person's height, with the arm being at a 90-degree angle when gripping the poles in front of you and the tips resting on the ground. Like most exercise equipment, Nordic poles come in a variety of types and price ranges.

Fall is the perfect time to start Nordic walking, with the ski season right around the corner. It's also a great way to get much-needed exercise during the winter months, when the added stability can help maintain balance on icy surfaces.

So, next time you see someone Nordic walking, instead of asking, "Hey, where's the snow?" you should ask "Hey, where'd you get those poles?" After all, they just might be on to something.

? Nikki Luttmann is a community relations specialist at Bonner General Hospital