Nordic Walking

In this part of the world, walking really refers to power walking, while Nordic, of course, relates to the place where this sport was born, Finland. In America, power walking is the successor to jogging, with an estimated 23 million joggers, but almost 90 million active walkers. Walking involves a dynamic, rapid tempo including vigorous use of the arms.

Power walking is different from hiking or taking a regular stroll 
In our part of the world, power walking has taken a sportier twist than hiking or regular walking. And now, power walking has continued to develop into Nordic Walking, a sport that also involves the use of special walking poles. The results are impressive: it works virtually 90 percent of all muscles in the body, and strengthens the arms-shoulder-back areas especially. Calorie consumption increases and even your coordination improves. Yet another positive effect that enhances your sense of wellbeing: getting exercise in the open countryside. Researchers at the University of West Virginia have shown in a study that outdoor training, as opposed to workouts at the gym, result in additional reductions in the levels of stress hormones and brighten your overall spirits.