Nordic Walkers want to make sure that every step they take is using more muscles and therefore more energy. They like to tone upper and lower body at the same time and also feel lighter on their feet.
Using traditional strapped poles does achieve this but takes some time to master and many resort to a hybrid technique as they do not have the range of movement, fitness level or desire to perform a mirror of the long movements performed by cross country skiers ( who obviously glide as they perform the arm movement)
This is fine and common place in the UK where most regular walkers are not so interested in technique but do want RESULTS!
Since WALX total body walking poles were introduced in 2021, many regular Nordic Walkers have switched to using them for a number of reasons
- No Faffing with putting straps on and off ( great if stopping for exercises en route or a coffee)
- Less pressure on thumb joints when pushing into straps and no need to replace dirty/worn straps
- No need to push too far back to get a good arm workout
- A better core workout
- More comfortable and natural to use as they are designed to encourage natural gait.
Don’t take our word for it though – these walkers from Saddleworth Nordic Walking (one of the longest established Nordic Walking groups in the UK) were keen to share their stories with their Instructor Caroline Thomson.
Susie said
” I used them the first time on a walk last Tuesday and both my arms ached the day after which i do not usually get form my usual poles”
Anna said
“I have arthritis in my hands and the straps pull on my thumbs too much. These are absolutely brilliant though!”