Vicky Welsh is the director for Bristol and Bath Nordic Walking. Here, she tells us about Nordic walking and why you should try it.
For those who may not know, what is Nordic walking?
It’s one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
Nordic walking is based entirely on your natural walking pattern but uses two specially designed poles angled backwards to help build your upper body strength and accelerate you forwards. It comes from cross-country skiing and is very sociable, lots of fun and an extremely effective whole-body workout.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about getting involved with Nordic walking?
Nordic walking, when done properly, can burn up to 46% more calories than regular walking and is a total upper and lower body exercise, using 90% of the body’s muscles.
With good tuition you can expect to see positive changes in your posture, back health, joints and all over muscle tone, especially in your arms and waist.
To get started you need to learn the correct technique from a qualified Nordic walking instructor.
To find out more visit the Bristol Nordic Walking website or book onto their free taster session on Saturday, 11 May at 9.30am on the Downs.
Other Nordic walking sessions are available during Bristol Walk Fest, please see our online events calendar for details.