Walking is the most natural and natural form of movement for a person. You can walk all year round and for as long as you feel comfortable. Now walking lessons are gaining popularity in Russia, but not ordinary, but Scandinavian. In this article we will talk about this type of physical activity. We will also answer the most common question for beginners about how to choose Nordic walking poles. So let's get started.
Definition
Nordic walking is a walk with the use of ski (mountain) poles. Sometimes it is called Finnish or Norwegian in honor of the countries of the same name on the Scandinavian Peninsula. This physical activity activates when walking hands, and if you look at the whole organism, then 90% of the muscles of the body work. The support is distributed between the legs and the shoulder girdle.
Appearance story
This style of walking began to be actively promoted by the sports communities of Finland in the 90s. Their main argument was that it includes additional muscles. This physical activity also allowed Finnish skiers to keep fit in the summer.
Now the whole world already knows what Nordic walking is (how to choose sticks and master the technique, read below). Amateur clubs are being created everywhere. The world association of this sport includes 25 countries. Negotiations are underway on Russia's entry into it.
Walking technique
We have already said that when Nordic walking is actively used hands. What other muscles work? Naturally, legs and abdominal muscles. But in order to use the latter, you need to connect the hips while walking, moving them left and right. The main thing is to go naturally, and in any case you will get the necessary load. While walking, gently move your foot from heel to toe. Hands should be slightly bent at the elbows, but do not take the sticks far back. The body of the body should be slightly tilted forward. The extension of the right foot should be accompanied by the removal of the left hand with a stick, and vice versa. Well, of course, you need to keep the rhythm. The appropriate music in your player can help with this. Slow contemplation will not do any good.
Recently, a search has become very popular in search engines: "Nordic walking with sticks for weight loss technique." An explanation is worth making here. There is no special weight loss walking technique . Use the one we described above, and the weight will go away. In an hour of classes, you will burn about 400 calories. But for weight loss, it is important to observe two things: diet and systematic training. If you ignore these two rules, then you can forget about losing weight.
How to choose Nordic walking poles
This is a very important point, especially for beginners. Let's start with a description of the types of sticks.
Monolithic or telescopic?
The sticks are monolithic (fixed height) and telescopic (adjustable height). Suitable height can be calculated by the formula: own height + height of the sole of the shoe x 0.68.
What are they made of?
In such a case as the choice and purchase of poles for Nordic walking, it is important to draw on the material from which they are made. It can be aluminum, carbon or fiberglass with the addition of carbon. Aluminum sticks are suitable for beginners and for rental. And avid walkers need strong, heavy-duty, carbon-fiber sticks.
About pens and lanyards
The material of the pen on the stick should not irritate the skin. The cork coating is best suited for this - it does not cool in the winter and does not heat in the heat.
The handle of the stick requires the presence of a lanyard (belt) for a more dense girth of the wrist. If you open your palm, then thanks to the lanyard the stick will remain in the hand. The size of the belt must be selected according to the size of the palm. It should not be too big and sag on the wrist. Also, do not forget about walking in the winter, when gloves are on hand. A tight belt will simply squeeze your hand.
About tips
A solid metal spike is required at the end of the stick. Such a tip is universal: it is suitable for walking on snow, sand, grass and soil. Also included must be a rubber tip for asphalt pavement.
For beginners
How to choose a novice stick for Nordic walking? Everything is simple. Opt for aluminum telescopic poles . And it is better that the price is not high. Why? Firstly, the above formula for determining a suitable height may not be suitable for everyone. Only after a few classes does the athlete find the optimal stick height for himself. In addition, the higher the stick, the stronger the load. So it’s best to start from a minimum height. Well, and secondly, Nordic walking may not be pleasant, and you leave it to do. Therefore, it is worth purchasing the most ordinary sticks and not splurge on professional ones.
Advanced
Trained athletes already know the optimal load for themselves, so monolithic sticks will suit them. In determining the height, follow the above formula.
Contraindications
Nordic walking with sticks is a sport accessible to everyone, and he has no contraindications. Even older people engage in this type of physical activity. Yes and there is no disease that would interfere with walking. In addition, no special places for training are needed. This can be done anywhere, even at home.
Conclusion
Now you know how to choose Nordic walking poles. Do not be lazy and exercise regularly. Systematic training will not only improve your appearance, but also improve your health.