Nordic walking, a variation of walking with special poles, has become a popular sport in recent years. This sport offers a variety of health benefits that make it an excellent choice for people of all ages and fitness levels. In this blog, you will learn why Nordic walking is a healthy sport and how you can benefit from it.
Full body workout
Unlike normal walking, Nordic walking not only trains the legs, but the whole body. The use of poles means that the arms, shoulders, chest and upper back are also activated. This promotes muscle strength and endurance throughout the body.
Gentle on the joints
Nordic walking is particularly easy on the joints as the poles take on part of the body weight. This relieves pressure on the knee and hip joints as well as the spine. It is therefore a particularly suitable sport for people with joint problems or for those looking for a gentle way to keep fit.
Improved cardiovascular health
Regular Nordic walking improves cardiovascular function. It increases the heart rate, which leads to improved blood flow and oxygenation of the body. In the long term, this can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Burning calories
Nordic walking is more effective at burning calories than normal walking. By using the arms and upper body, more energy is expended, resulting in a higher calorie burn. This makes it an ideal sport for weight control and weight loss.
Stress reduction and mental health
The nature and fresh air enjoyed during Nordic walking contribute significantly to stress reduction. Regular outdoor exercise can also improve mental health by helping to reduce symptoms such as depression and anxiety.
Social aspects
Nordic walking can be practised alone or in groups. Many people enjoy the social aspects of walking in a group. It’s a great way to meet new people and stay active at the same time.
Flexibility and simplicity
One of the biggest advantages of Nordic walking is its flexibility and simplicity. It requires no expensive equipment or gym membership. All you need is a pair of Nordic walking poles and comfortable shoes. What’s more, you can practise it almost anywhere, be it in the city, in the park or in the countryside and, of course, on the beach.
