Nordic Walking FAQs

Nordic Walking's Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nordic Walking?
What is the difference between Trekking and Nordic Walking?
What are the health benefits of Nordic Walking?
Which poles are right for me?
At what height should my poles be set?

Question -

What is Nordic Walking?

Answer -

Nordic Walking is the activity of walking for fitness using specially designed poles to give you a full-body workout.

Question -

What is the difference between Trekking and Nordic Walking?

Answer -

Nordic Walking is a specific activity with a steady rhythmic pace. Trekking is a general activity with varied pace, terrain and usually involves added weight such as a day pack or backpack.
Nordic Walking poles are positioned angled back away from the body which allows for push off, creating resistance. Trekking poles are gripped with full palm/finger contact and held in front the body supporting the weight of the hiker.
The straps used on Nordic Walking poles allow for release of the hand from the pole at the end of your stride keeping the hand in place to grasp the pole on the way back to the front of the stride. Trekking pole straps are meant to support weight with full hand contact.
The bottom line is that these are two different activities. It's important to use the proper equipment for each for optimal results and efficiency.

Question -

What are the health benefits of Nordic Walking?

Answer -

Burn up to 40% more calories during your walk
Pump up your cardio by increasing oxygen consumption
Reduce stress to your knees and lower joints
Improve posture
Strengthen your upper body and create resistance to build better bone density

Our trained instructors suggest that as with any exercise program, you should consult a physician before beginning; Nordic Walking can be strenuous without perceived exertion.

Question -

Which poles are right for me?

Answer -

As a general rule, if you're new to Nordic Walking, you should choose an adjustable model. These poles will allow you to experiment with different length and technique until you find what is comfortable to you. If you plan on walking on different terrain you should also choose an adjustable model to accommodate the difference in height of that terrain. Fixed length poles are generally used by Nordic Walkers that have refined their technique and generally walk on similar terrain. And it's important to note that it's not as easy to share your fixed length poles with a friend or a family member. Everyone has a different body length and torso ratio, so even two people of the same height may not use the same length pole.

Question -

At what height should my poles be set?

Answer -

We have a general guideline for you to begin with. See the formula here. However, this is a starting guide. Feel free to lengthen or shorten your poles as you experiment with stride, swing and rhythm. A qualified Nordic Walking Instructor can watch, guide and coach you so you will get the maximum benefit from your walk.