‘Nordic’ Walking Technique Can Help You Burn Up to 40% More Calories
Nordic walking is rapidly gaining popularity, with fitness enthusiasts and experts alike praising the full-body workout benefits of this method, which is said to also aid in weight loss.
Weight loss guidance can be overwhelming, with many exercise fads promising quick results. While intense gym sessions are not necessary, even a simple walk can help with weight management. Nordic walking, a fitness trend originating from Scandinavia, is now making waves in the UK, known for its effectiveness in accelerating weight loss and toning muscles.
A study conducted by the University of Verona involving 38 participants who adopted Nordic walking for six months reported significant decreases in body fat and waist size. This exercise style incorporates poles, ensuring a full-body workout. The British Nordic Walking group claims it can “burn 20% more calories compared to walking without poles,” offering an efficient way to enhance calorie burn.
Furthermore, Nordic walking is known to alleviate neck and shoulder tension, enhance posture, and strengthen back muscles. The national walking organisation WALX has highlighted the benefits of Nordic Walking, emphasizing that it engages 90% of major muscles and “improves posture, body tone and speeds up metabolism” for “quick results.” They added, “Working more muscles means using more energy – it is possible to burn between 20% and 40% more calories than you would walking without poles. That’s why it is essential you master the correct technique from the start.”
To engage in Nordic walking effectively, Nordic walking poles are essential equipment for this all-encompassing workout. Michael Stone, an instructor at Warner’s Littlecote House Hotel, provided insights into the appropriate methods:
1. Set the poles to the correct height, aligning the arms so the elbow forms a right angle when held close to the body and the pole is vertical.
2. Begin your stride with a heel contact to the ground, rolling to the ball of your foot to reduce pressure on joints.
3. Include a gentle push-off from the toes with each step.
4. Walk with naturally long strides that are comfortable.
5. Lean slightly forward from your ankles while walking.
6. Insert the poles into the ground between your front and rear foot with every step.
7. Keep shoulders relaxed and lowered to prevent tension buildup.
8. To increase calorie expenditure, enhance your toe push-off and accelerate your arm swings to boost power.
In summary, Nordic walking offers a holistic approach to fitness, combining cardiovascular benefits with muscle toning and calorie burn. Mastering the correct technique is crucial to reap the maximum benefits from this exercise method.
Insights and Summary:
The Nordic walking technique is gaining traction in the UK for its ability to provide a full-body workout, accelerate weight loss, and improve muscle tone. With its roots in Scandinavia, this exercise style incorporates poles to engage major muscle groups and boost calorie burn. Nordic walking not only aids in weight management but also targets neck and shoulder tension, posture improvement, and back muscle strengthening. By mastering the correct technique and using the appropriate equipment, individuals can reap the benefits of Nordic walking for an effective and efficient workout routine.