‘A regular walk is a ‘miracle way’ to avoid cancer and dementia.’ A headline just last week in the press, claiming exercising for just 30 minutes five times a week could drastically reduce the chance of contracting illnesses including breast cancer and dementia. The report, based on an analysis of more than 200 pieces of research, found regular physical activity was more beneficial than many medications and the elusive “miracle cure” sought by many. It concluded that exercise could reduce the risk of breast cancer by 25 per cent, risk of bowel cancer by 45 per cent and the risk of developing dementia by as much as 30 per cent. We cannot open a paper at the moment without being told how good walking is for you.
You carry your own body weight when you walk. This is known as weight-bearing exercise. As we all know the health benefits are many, from increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness to reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Improved management of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and diabetes, stronger bones and improved balance, increased muscle strength and endurance, and reduced body fat, but to name a few……
The beauty of Nordic walking is that it also awakens our awareness of the correct way in which to walk. Most importantly it makes us think about our posture, how we hold ourselves and our correct body alignment. After Nordic walking many of our walkers say that they are more aware of their posture in their everyday lives, not just when walking, but sitting and standing too. Whether it be holding ourselves correctly when sitting at a desk, or just standing in the queue at the supermarket. Correct posture needs to be a way of life, and regular Nordic walking helps seal this into our memory. Nordic walking means the way you walk can become a workout, particularly focusing on your arms and back muscles, whilst working your core and glutes.
Why not grab a pair of poles and gain the benefits of Nordic walking?