{"id":32046,"date":"2021-11-24T20:52:10","date_gmt":"2021-11-24T20:52:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=32046"},"modified":"2025-01-11T22:51:39","modified_gmt":"2025-01-11T22:51:39","slug":"nordic-walking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/","title":{"rendered":"Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? Benefits, Disadvantages And Risks"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#What_Does_Nordic_Walking_Mean\" >What Does Nordic Walking Mean?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#How_To_Start_Nordic_Walking_Proper_Tips_For_Beginners\" >How To Start Nordic Walking: Proper Tips For Beginners<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Proper_Shoes\" >Proper Shoes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Proper_Workout_Clothes\" >Proper Workout Clothes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Replacement_Nordic_Walking_Pole_Tips\" >Replacement Nordic Walking Pole Tips<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Nordic_Walking_Sticks\" >Nordic Walking Sticks<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#The_Proper_Nordic_Walking_Technique\" >The Proper Nordic Walking Technique<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#What_Are_Some_Nordic_Walking_Benefits\" >What Are Some Nordic Walking Benefits?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Offers_A_Good_Upper_Body_Workout\" >Offers A Good Upper Body Workout<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Safer_For_Your_Back_Than_Traditional_Walking\" >Safer For Your Back Than Traditional Walking<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Improves_Balance_Mobility_Muscle_Strength_And_Aerobic_Endurance_Especially_In_Older_Adults\" >Improves Balance, Mobility, Muscle Strength, And Aerobic Endurance (Especially In Older Adults)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#What_Are_Some_Nordic_Walking_Disadvantages\" >What Are Some Nordic Walking Disadvantages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#Factors_To_Consider_When_Choosing_Nordic_Walking_Sticks\" >Factors To Consider When Choosing Nordic Walking Sticks<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like with healthy diets, fitness too has trends that pop up from time to time, with every wave claiming to be the best new workout for weight loss in the market. Nordic walking is one such trend that seems to have taken over the walking\/running community by storm. Proponents of this new workout style claim that it takes plain old walking to a whole new level that boosts your endurance, as well as how many calories you burn per session.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Frame-1484579773.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1925\" height=\"1200\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, is this true, or is Nordic walking basically just walking only with sticks? Read on to find if there are any benefits of Nordic walking, disadvantages, and risks &#8211; if any and if you are interested in trying out this form of exercise, how to use Nordic walking sticks safely.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_Nordic_Walking_Mean\"><\/span><b>What Does Nordic Walking Mean?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Originating from Finland, Nordic walking is an enhanced walking technique that was initially designed as a summer training routine for cross-country skiers. This workout uses poles, aka Nordic walking sticks, to help give your upper body a workout as you walk around on a trail, track, or just the sidewalk.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To understand what Nordic walking is, think about what cross-country skiing athletes do on the ice during the Olympics, only this time, instead of running and sliding up and down on the snow, you are walking normally but with these walking sticks in hand.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Start_Nordic_Walking_Proper_Tips_For_Beginners\"><\/span><b>How To Start Nordic Walking: Proper Tips For Beginners<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While this type of exercise might seem like normal walking while holding some sticks, the truth is that it is not. For you to do this exercise safely and get an actual lower and upper body workout, you need to have<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/weight-loss-accessories\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> proper accessories<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and tools and learn the proper technique for Nordic walking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-33356 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4861-1.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4861-1.png 1152w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4861-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4861-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4861-1.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Proper_Shoes\"><\/span><b>Proper Shoes<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not all shoes are made the same, and having the right shoe can either make or break your Nordic walking experience. The proper shoe for this exercise should have ticked all of the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It must be comfortable. Unlike other types of shoes or sneakers, walking shoes are made specifically for this purpose and often have a cushion to keep your feet and joints safe after hours of trampling around. This cushioning is most likely the last barrier between you and knee or hip pain.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It should fit your leg type. Do you have high arches, or are your feet more on the flat side? Failure to figure this out could lead to discomfort while exercising and complications such as back pain, bunions, or even tendon damage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It should have enough space in the toe box area. Your shoe should have some wiggle room at the front to help prevent potential blisters, as well as any numbness or tingling in the feet.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It should be breathable. This helps keep your feet cooler and allows your sweat to evaporate more quickly, which can decrease your risk of blisters.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your shoe of choice should also offer support and stability during your walk.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking-disadvantages\/\">Nordic Walking Disadvantages: Do The Cons Outshine The Pros?<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Proper_Workout_Clothes\"><\/span><b>Proper Workout Clothes<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You do not need any fancy name-brand clothing for walking. Just make sure that whatever clothes you choose are breathable to allow sweat to quickly evaporate from the skin, not stay and soak, leaving you feeling sweaty and uncomfortable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-33355 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4862-1.png\" alt=\"nordic walking for health and weight loss\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4862-1.png 1152w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4862-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4862-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4862-1.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Replacement_Nordic_Walking_Pole_Tips\"><\/span><b>Replacement Nordic Walking Pole Tips<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are not a necessity, but it would be a good idea to have them at hand. These tips come in different designs all made to make it easier to walk on different kinds of terrain from asphalt, concrete, normal soil, etc. These tips also help keep the actual tip of your Nordic walking stick from being roughed up and getting ruined. If you want, you can also get some pole guards, which help keep your sticks from sinking into gravel or snow.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nordic_Walking_Sticks\"><\/span><b>Nordic Walking Sticks<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without these poles, the exercise does not qualify as Nordic walking. Choose poles that work best for you as they are what you will use to train on the proper technique needed for this workout.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Proper_Nordic_Walking_Technique\"><\/span><b>The Proper Nordic Walking Technique<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is a simple routine that every beginner can follow:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Begin by standing tall with your shoulders relaxed, chest down, and eyes looking ahead.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold the poles in each hand and close to your body.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you take a step forward with your right foot, swing (don&#8217;t flick) the pole in your left hand forward. The pole should land on the ground at level with your right heel.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take note of the position of this front pole. It should be pointing diagonally backward and not be in front of your body.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Push the pole into the ground behind you as you take a step with your left foot. Slightly loosen your grip on the pole (this is why straps are important). It prevents injury to the wrist.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Push the pole as far back as possible, the arm straightening to form a continuous line with the fully extended arm.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As this occurs, bring your left foot and right pole forward. Be sure to close your grip as the pole lands to push it off of the ground and continue the motion.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Whether you\u2019re a workout beast or just a beginner making your first foray into the world of fitness and dieting \u2013 BetterMe has a lot to offer to both newbies and experts! Install the app and <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2361&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\">experience the versatility first-hand<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-37137 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5097.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5097.png 1152w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5097-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5097.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5097.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Some_Nordic_Walking_Benefits\"><\/span><b>What Are Some Nordic Walking Benefits?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like every other cardio workout, Nordic walking has several health benefits.\u00a0 Here are some:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Offers_A_Good_Upper_Body_Workout\"><\/span><b>Offers A Good Upper Body Workout<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While walking is considered one of the best and easiest full-body workouts, it doesn&#8217;t necessarily utilize all the muscles in your body. Walking mostly utilizes the muscles in your lower body in the glutes, calves, hamstrings, etc. For you to get an upper-body workout while walking, the easiest and most obvious choice would be to hold some weights as you walk around. This, however, is frowned upon as experts state that this action puts strain and stress on your arm muscles and joints, which can lead to injury or damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nordic walking is a safer way to have your lower and upper bodywork as you stroll around your neighborhood. An article by the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Harvard School of Publishing<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> stresses this fact by stating that walking normally engages about 50 percent of all your muscles, while Nordic walking engages 80 to 90 percent of the same.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A study published in 2017 found that office workers who participated in Nordic walking achieved greater <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/a-21-day-walking-plan-for-fat-loss\/\">shoulder mobility<\/a> but also ended up with increased PPT (pain pressure threshold) in the muscles in their upper and mid trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and in the infraspinatus. They also had significant improvement in their upper body flexibility (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28234265\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The above statements were echoed in a study published a year later by the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PLOS One <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">journal. The participants in this study were made to undergo several variations of Nordic walking, all compared side-by-side with normal walking. At the end of the study, researchers established that this Finland originating exercise provided a greater workout to the latissimus dorsi, trapezii, forearm flexors, pectoralis majors, deltoids, triceps, and even your core (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.plos.org\/plosone\/article?id=10.1371\/journal.pone.0195438\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-33358 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4859.png\" alt=\"nordic walking\" width=\"1344\" height=\"756\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4859.png 1344w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4859-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4859.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4859.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1344px) 100vw, 1344px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safer_For_Your_Back_Than_Traditional_Walking\"><\/span><b>Safer For Your Back Than Traditional Walking<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/walk-to-lose-weight\/\">Walking<\/a> or standing adds increased pressure on your spine can make the lower back muscles tighten and spasm, leading to pain &#8211; especially if you are doing any of these activities for long periods. If you suffer from lower back pain\/tension, then Nordic walking should be your preferred form of exercise. According to a study published in 2015, this European originating exercise does not activate the erector spinae (lower back) muscles as much as traditional walking and thus is a much preferable option (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26418339\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/intermediate-marathon-training-plan\/\">An Intermediate Marathon Training Plan For Your Next Race<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Improves_Balance_Mobility_Muscle_Strength_And_Aerobic_Endurance_Especially_In_Older_Adults\"><\/span><b>Improves Balance, Mobility, Muscle Strength, And Aerobic Endurance (Especially In Older Adults)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The elderly often have<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/balance-exercises-for-seniors\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> problems with their balance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> due to multiple issues like vision and neurological problems, low blood pressure, dehydration, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and other health and mental issues. If your parents or grandparents tend to fall over a lot, then you should get them to try adding this workout to their routine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These facts were proven by a study published in 2015 by <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness. <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the study, researchers took 41 older adults, all above 60 years old, and had them do Nordic walking for 35 weeks (ten (10) weeks were supervised while 25 weeks were not). At the end of the study, the seniors who completed the Nordic walking study had significant improvements, not only in their balance but also in their functional mobility and aerobic endurance (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25303166\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). These statements were echoed in a recent review by the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rejuvenation Research Journal <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28756746\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Please note that these benefits are not only limited to the elderly alone. Anyone could do it with better mobility, muscle strength, and aerobic endurance. A study published earlier this year (2021) revealed that when compared to moderate-to-vigorous intensity and high-intensity interval training, Nordic walking showed greater improvements in their functional capacity (the capability of performing tasks and activities that people find necessary or desirable in their lives(<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34245777\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-37139 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5094.png\" alt=\"nordic walking\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5094.png 1152w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5094-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5094.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5094.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>Leads To Faster Weight Loss<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are looking to lose weight through a relatively <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/walking-plan-to-lose-weight\/\">easy workout<\/a> routine, it might be time to invest in some poles and try Nordic walking. A study published in 2020 revealed that using poles while walking can increase your calorie-burning by up to 18 percent. <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Harvard School of Publishing <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">states that this percentage can increase to up to 67 percent (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31665877\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Multiple other studies have shown that this workout works great for weight loss (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/33467351\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/51031901_Efficacy_of_Nordic_Walking_in_Obesity_Management\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6717875\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 12<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Low Impact<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This workout is a good<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/workouts-for-obese-beginners\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> low-impact workout<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> option for overweight people who are unable to do more high-intensity workouts, as well as people suffering from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-exercise-with-bad-knees-to-lose-weight\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> knee pain<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or arthritis (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/27129607\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nordic walking also has a positive impact on your resting heart rate, blood pressure, exercise capacity, maximal oxygen consumption, and will improve the quality of your life (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/29067853\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/23253654\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Dropping pounds by the dozens without putting yourself through the wringer is everyone\u2019s weight loss pipe dream. But what if we told you that the BetterMe app can make that happen? <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2361&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\">Keep yourself in prime shape<\/a> with our fat-blasting workouts, delicious budget-sparing recipes, and body-transforming challenges with our app!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-37140 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5095.png\" alt=\"nordic walking\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5095.png 1152w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5095-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5095.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5095.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Some_Nordic_Walking_Disadvantages\"><\/span><b>What Are Some Nordic Walking Disadvantages?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the most part, Nordic walking is relatively easy to do a workout that can not only be done by anyone young or old, sick or healthy, but it also has some incredible benefits. That being said, it has some<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking-disadvantages\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> disadvantages<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that could deter some people from attempting it.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>It can be expensive<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The most important part of this exercise is the walking poles as, without them, the workout does not qualify as Nordic walking. You need good walking poles, and they do not come cheap. Prices start from about $70 and can go as high as $200 for good quality Nordic walking sticks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>It takes a while to learn and master. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike basic walking that we all learned early on in life and is a mindless thing now, this exercise requires training for you to master it and have a full-body routine. The thought of having to re-learn how to walk just to work out can seem odd to some.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-37136 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5096.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5096.png 1152w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5096-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5096.png 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5096.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><b>FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Factors_To_Consider_When_Choosing_Nordic_Walking_Sticks\"><\/span><b>Factors To Consider When Choosing Nordic Walking Sticks<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The New York Times<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the best poles will not only <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/how-many-miles-should-i-run-a-day\/\">improve your balance<\/a>, prevent injuries in your legs, especially the knees, but will also make sure that you are involving your upper body in the workout to give you a well-rounded session (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/wirecutter\/reviews\/best-trekking-poles\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To make sure that your Nordic walking sticks are the best for you, here are some things to consider:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Budget. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some poles can go for as much as $200, so be sure to have a specific amount before you start picking out poles.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Preferred Material. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nordic walking sticks come in either aluminum, carbon fiber, or a mixture of these two materials. While carbon fiber poles can support a higher load, they are also stiffer and absorb less of the effort of the user. They also do not have a very long service life.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Pole Tips. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As previously mentioned, these walking pole tips help prevent wear and tear of your stick and also help keep the pole (and you) stable in all kinds of terrain. Choose your tips depending on where you wish to exercise.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length Of The Pole. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can either choose from a fixed or variable length. Fixed lengths are said to offer more uncompromised performance to the user and are more suitable for regular and experienced users. They are also lighter, do not vibrate when they hit the ground, and are less likely to slip regardless of your terrain or walking speed.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-30690 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/3-10.jpg\" alt=\"nordic walking\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/3-10.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/3-10-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/3-10.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/3-10.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/3-10-1636x920.jpg 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adjustable poles are better since they can be easily adjusted to suit the height of the user and are also easier and more compact to pack and carry around. Some say that the adjustable ones are also multi-purpose as they can be used for other activities such as hiking, trekking, mountaineering, and climbing.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Anti-shock Technology. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This may help reduce the impact on your muscles, joints, and ligaments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Handle-grip Material. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can either choose a rubber grip that is softer and absorbs shocks more or a foam grip that is more breathable and more lightweight.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>A Quick-release Strap<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Frame-1484579773.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1925\" height=\"1200\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><b>The Bottom Line<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The proponents of Nordic walking have clearly stumbled upon a great new workout that delivers on its promises. It is indeed a low-impact workout that can not only be done by anyone but also provides a myriad of health benefits. To lose weight with this exercise, be sure to also eat a calorie deficit healthy diet and make sure to always walk in well-lit areas.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Like with healthy diets, fitness too has trends that pop up from time to time, with every wave claiming to be the best new workout for weight loss in the market. Nordic walking is one such trend that seems to have taken over the walking\/running community by storm. Proponents of this new workout style claim [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":37138,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[49,265],"tags":[161,160],"coauthors":[109],"class_list":["post-32046","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-betterme-fitness","category-walking","tag-sunday-workouts","tag-thursday-workouts"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? Benefits, Disadvantages And Risks - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What is Nordic walking and does it have any weight loss and health benefits? Check out this article for the straight facts on this exercise.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, nofollow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? Benefits, Disadvantages And Risks\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What is Nordic walking and does it have any weight loss and health benefits? Check out this article for the straight facts on this exercise.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-01-11T22:51:39+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5093.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1152\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"648\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"\u0421. Kamau\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\u0421. Kamau\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"13 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"\u0421. Kamau\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/05bcd715bea15329a5c0bc94910663b3\"},\"headline\":\"Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? Benefits, Disadvantages And Risks\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-01-11T22:51:39+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/\"},\"wordCount\":2286,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5093.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Sunday Workouts\",\"Thursday Workouts\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Fitness\",\"Walking\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Like with healthy diets, fitness too has trends that pop up from time to time, with every wave claiming to be the best new workout for weight loss in the market. Nordic walking is one such trend that seems to have taken over the walking\/running community by storm. Proponents of this new workout style claim that it takes plain old walking to a whole new level that boosts your endurance, as well as how many calories you burn per session.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<a href=\\\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\\\"><img class=\\\"aligncenter\\\" src=\\\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Frame-1484579773.png\\\" alt=\\\"\\\" width=\\\"1925\\\" height=\\\"1200\\\" \/><\/a>\\r\\n\\r\\n&nbsp;\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">However, is this true, or is Nordic walking basically just walking only with sticks? Read on to find if there are any benefits of Nordic walking, disadvantages, and risks - if any and if you are interested in trying out this form of exercise, how to use Nordic walking sticks safely.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>What Does Nordic Walking Mean?<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Originating from Finland, Nordic walking is an enhanced walking technique that was initially designed as a summer training routine for cross-country skiers. This workout uses poles, aka Nordic walking sticks, to help give your upper body a workout as you walk around on a trail, track, or just the sidewalk.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">To understand what Nordic walking is, think about what cross-country skiing athletes do on the ice during the Olympics, only this time, instead of running and sliding up and down on the snow, you are walking normally but with these walking sticks in hand.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>How To Start Nordic Walking: Proper Tips For Beginners<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">While this type of exer ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/\",\"name\":\"Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? 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Kamau\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/90b178f3c6c0698ffcfa00531dad5f63\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/clare_kamau-150x150.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/clare_kamau-150x150.png\",\"caption\":\"\u0421. Kamau\"},\"description\":\"Clare is an excellent and experienced writer who has a great interest in nutrition, weight loss, and working out. She believes that everyone should take an interest in health and fitness, as not only do they improve your way of life, but they can also have a significant impact on your health. As a writer, her goal is to educate her readers about the ways they can reprogram themselves to enjoy exercise, as well as break free from bad eating habits. 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Benefits, Disadvantages And Risks","og_description":"What is Nordic walking and does it have any weight loss and health benefits? Check out this article for the straight facts on this exercise.","og_url":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/","og_site_name":"BetterMe Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching","article_modified_time":"2025-01-11T22:51:39+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1152,"height":648,"url":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5093.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"\u0421. Kamau","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@betterme","twitter_site":"@betterme","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"\u0421. Kamau","Est. reading time":"13 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/"},"author":{"name":"\u0421. Kamau","@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/05bcd715bea15329a5c0bc94910663b3"},"headline":"Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? Benefits, Disadvantages And Risks","dateModified":"2025-01-11T22:51:39+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/"},"wordCount":2286,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/dev.cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-5093.png","keywords":["Sunday Workouts","Thursday Workouts"],"articleSection":["Fitness","Walking"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like with healthy diets, fitness too has trends that pop up from time to time, with every wave claiming to be the best new workout for weight loss in the market. Nordic walking is one such trend that seems to have taken over the walking\/running community by storm. Proponents of this new workout style claim that it takes plain old walking to a whole new level that boosts your endurance, as well as how many calories you burn per session.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2328&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Nordic_Walking\"><img class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Frame-1484579773.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1925\" height=\"1200\" \/><\/a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, is this true, or is Nordic walking basically just walking only with sticks? Read on to find if there are any benefits of Nordic walking, disadvantages, and risks - if any and if you are interested in trying out this form of exercise, how to use Nordic walking sticks safely.<\/span>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>What Does Nordic Walking Mean?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Originating from Finland, Nordic walking is an enhanced walking technique that was initially designed as a summer training routine for cross-country skiers. This workout uses poles, aka Nordic walking sticks, to help give your upper body a workout as you walk around on a trail, track, or just the sidewalk.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To understand what Nordic walking is, think about what cross-country skiing athletes do on the ice during the Olympics, only this time, instead of running and sliding up and down on the snow, you are walking normally but with these walking sticks in hand.<\/span>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>How To Start Nordic Walking: Proper Tips For Beginners<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While this type of exer ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/","url":"https:\/\/dev.betterme.world\/articles\/nordic-walking\/","name":"Nordic Walking: Is This New Workout Craze Worth It? 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