Social and Fun
Our walks are full of chat and laughter but donʼt think you arenʼt getting a work-out! The highly effective technique means that you can walk further and faster than you usually would and still keep up a conversation.
Our Nordic walking community is very friendly and all new walkers are welcomed with open arms. Most of our walkers joined by themselves so don’t be shy! But if you do feel a little nervous about joining alone we offer a ‘buddy’ system where an experienced walker will support you.
Lose weight
You can burn between 20% and 46% more calories with Nordic walking than with ordinary walking. This is fantastic news if you are wanting to lose weight or just find a way to manage your weight. The increased calorie demand is because you are using both your upper and lower body. The poles also make you work harder without even realising it. At Bristol & Bath Nordic Walking we run specific combined fitness and Nordic walking classes, keeping you motivated and your body challenged.
Sculpts your arms and trims your waist too
Nordic walking targets your triceps (bingo wings) and helps strengthen and define your shoulders. Plus when you use the poles properly you will trim your waist and strengthen your entire core! Pushing the poles into the ground really works the entire ʻmiddleʼ of the body and all of your back, so you really are getting a great upper body workout from a very natural movement.
Nordic walking is also a weight-bearing exercise and uses 90% of the bodyʼs skeletal muscle. So it is excellent for bone health and as it is outside your body is able to absorb that all important vitamin D.
Posture and tension
Today’s lifestyle can play havoc with our bodies! A key feature of Nordic walking is that you plant the poles behind you. This keeps your posture upright and your chest open. The technique, which includes rotating your upper body, also helps release tension in your neck and shoulders and reduces the impact on joints.
In our classes we always spend time working on technique to ensure you are getting the maximum benefit from Nordic walking – ʻhead up, shoulders down, chest outʼ has almost become a mantra!
