Today, vigorously walking people with sticks in their hands are surprised in all the cities of our vast Motherland. The sticks resemble ski poles in shape, but ski, however, is not observed anywhere, which causes bewilderment and interest among casual passers-by. Very few people know that this is not a manifestation of forgetfulness, but a new type of fitness that has recently come to us - Nordic walking.
What is Nordic walking?
This is a kind of physical activity. Classes are usually held in the fresh air and are a walk with special sticks. Initially, such walking was created for skiers who needed to keep fit in the summer. However, the idea turned out to be so effective that it quickly went beyond the narrow circle of professional athletes and became an independent sports direction. We can say that today nothing more universal than Nordic walking simply does not exist. It helps to lose weight in a natural way, allows you to maintain the body in good physical shape. Nordic walking with sticks (contraindications for it, it must be said, are practically absent) confidently entered the sports programs of fitness trainers, rehabilitation therapists and physiotherapists. The fact is that this type of fitness is really effective and affordable for all ages. What is the essence of Nordic walking?
Nordic walking: technique
For walking, special sticks are needed, the height of which depends on the person’s height. It is calculated according to the formula proposed by Finnish scientists: the height of the sole of the sneakers, multiplied by a factor of 0.68, is added to the growth. Sticks, if correctly selected, increase the load on the upper body - chest, shoulders, back. We can compare: sports walking and cycling use about 45% of the muscles, running - 65% and 90% - Nordic walking with sticks. Of course, there are contraindications, as in any kind of fitness, but they are very insignificant. And they concern mainly people who are not able to actively move due to recent injuries. If you can walk, you can walk with sticks. At the same time, a much greater amount of energy is spent, so walking is very effective for losing weight. One hour and a half lesson, similar to a regular walk, and a person will lose about 600 - 1000 calories. True, the magic thing is Nordic walking with sticks?
Contraindications: to whom can walking with sticks be harmful?
To nobody. And this is good news. A special distribution of loads helps increase endurance and, consequently, increase the duration of training. With sticks in the hands, the step becomes wider, the muscles of the buttocks and the back of the thighs train. The muscles become more elastic and embossed. In addition, the use of sticks reduces the load on the joints, which allows pregnant and overweight people to walk. You can go to those who are contraindicated to run (due to pain in the joints, scoliosis or other disorders of posture). If any cardiac load is contraindicated due to heart problems, Nordic walking with sticks is your choice. Contraindications, as we see, are practically absent, which makes this type of fitness attractive for many.