Nordic walking not just for seniors
One of the easiest ways to get fit is to simply throw on some running shoes, and get outside for a walk.
But while walking is good exercise for the lower body, it does little for the upper body.
The increasingly popular pastime of Nordic walking is able to accomplish both, however.
Nordic walkers use specially-designed walking poles as they walk, allowing them to use their entire body.
By incorporating the upper body, nordic walkers activate the latissimus and triceps muscles, as well as their core. That leads to an increased heart rate and more calories expended.
The poles also provide the elderly with more stability, and helps improve posture and gait.
Carol Benson-Hitch is the owner of Carol’s Fitness Solutions, and is a personal trainer and rehab therapy assistant. She says Nordic walking is a great low-impact way to get fit, and leads classes around South Delta teaching people the many benefits of “urban poling.”
“It’s not just for seniors,” she says. “I have people as young as their early 20s doing it.”
The poles themselves come with removable tips designed for varying abilities and terrain. They are adjustable in length, and are equipped with dampeners to reduce vibrations.
“It really takes the impact off the knees,” says Benson-Hitch.
Classes involve stretching, upper-body exercises, and vary in length depending on the ability of the group. Benson-Hitch offers participants the use of Nordic walking poles supplied by North Vancouver company, Urban Poling, and have the option of buying the poles at a discount.
For more information about Nordic walking classes, contact Carol Benson-Hitch at 604-339-5985, or visit www.urbanpoling.com
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