I’m a major fan of full-body workouts, and for good reason. As a freelance writer, I feel I’m always on a time crunch to meet deadlines and fulfill travel commitments. When it comes to exercising, I like finding workouts that give me the biggest bang for my buck. Recently, I learned about Nordic walking. Since I enjoy skiing and getting my steps in each day, this workout piqued my interest.
Nordic walking is similar to cross-country skiing—without the snow, of course.
This Nordic sport sounded like just the full-body workout I was looking for, so I ordered a set of walking poles from Amazon and was ready to go. To switch up my regular routine, I tried Nordic walking five days a week for three weeks. My decision was based on winter boredom—not expectations. However, I have to say that I was really surprised by the end results.
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What Are the Benefits of Nordic Walking?
Alexa Mellardo
“Walkers looking to increase intensity without transitioning to running often find [Nordic walking] especially effective. Runners can use Nordic walking as a low-impact cross-training or recovery option that still builds strength and endurance,” Campbell explains. “Aging adults benefit from the added stability, balance support and reduced joint stress, particularly on downhills where poles act as a braking system.”
In this workout, walking poles are used to push yourself forward and activate the muscles in your upper body, even though your legs are doing most of the work.
By adding Nordic walking to my typical walk route, I boosted my muscle engagement to about 90%.
I tested out TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles from Amazon, which come with two lightweight poles that are perfect for hiking, walking and backpacking. Each stick has a wrist strap, durable rubber grip and anti-shock mechanism for an all-around smooth trekking experience. The set also features various pole accessories, depending on the type of terrain you’re conquering (i.e., light snow, sand, rocky surface, packed dirt or gravel).
“For beginners, technique matters more than speed. Start at a comfortable walking pace and focus on a natural, reciprocal movement,” Campbell says. “Avoid overstriding with the poles, which can increase the risk of tripping or upper-body strain.”
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My Experience with Nordic Walking
Alexa Mellardo
As an avid skier, I didn’t find the pole movements awkward or challenging in the least. I had to be mindful of making each pole strike intentional to maximize the workout. I wasn’t walking in snow or over rough terrain; it was pavement that included some hills.
Overall, I really appreciated the workout Nordic walking gave my upper body. I felt a bit of muscle fatigue during the first week, which was a telltale sign my poles were doing their job. Truth be told, I don’t really do a ton of upper-body workouts, so this was a refreshingly productive way to kill two birds with one stone. I also felt myself standing up straighter with the help of the poles—a solid posture boost.
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Sources:
Cleveland Clinic. (2022, November 5). 5 reasons to try Nordic walking.Katya Campbell, GM and Fitness Director at Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, Certified Yoga Teacher, Level 2 CrossFit Coach and Level 1 Movement and Mobility SpecialistKaren Wick, Fitness Specialist and Certified Health Coach & Personal Trainer with Endeavor Health Fitness & Wellness CenterHence then, the article about i tried nordic walking for 3 weeks and was honestly surprised by the results was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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