Actually, I wanted to introduce a trail here that I enjoy running or Nordic walking 🙂 But I think it makes sense to consider the benefits of Nordic Walking first to take a closer look. Nordic Walking, I've been asked quite often why I actually do this sport. Why I don't go to the gym or engage in sports in any club. That Nordic Walking is very healthy is certainly beyond question, as is the fact that anyone can really do Nordic Walking. Whether slim, overweight, young, old, and even with various ailments that make jogging impossible, Nordic Walking can be supportive.

The reasons why I've been doing Nordic Walking for almost 10 years now and am totally happy with it can be found in the following 7 advantages.

Benefits of Nordic Walking for Body and Mind

Relax and unwind

This is one of the main reasons I do Nordic walking and for me, one of the best benefits of Nordic walking. You don't usually push yourself to your limit, but rather exercise within your ideal heart rate zone. Of course, the prerequisite is that the trail isn't too steep. In the Alps, that can sometimes backfire 🙂

However, since you are out in nature and thus in the fresh air, your immune system is strengthened. You should still be careful to wear good clothing so you don't get cold. All of this naturally has a very positive impact on the soul. I often go Nordic walking during my lunch break too. Since I sit at the PC all day, even half an hour of walking feels really good.

2. Shoulders and Neck

Since Nordic walking also continuously moves the shoulders and neck through arm movement, tensions there, which are caused, for example, by constantly sitting at the PC, are released. Furthermore, the back is trained gently and thus strengthened, which can reduce any back pain. Therefore, Nordic walking particularly improves posture because many muscle groups are trained simultaneously.

3. Fat burning

Weight can only be reduced through consistent training. Nordic walking engages a high percentage of your muscles, especially those in your upper body. This stimulates fat burning, and with regular training, you can continuously lose weight. Of course, you should also manage your diet, otherwise all the exercise will be for nothing. It's best to find a good nutrition plan in combination with the benefits of Nordic walking.

4. Better Sleep

That's actually a point that I personally noticed quickly. Regular walking helps me sleep much better. Not necessarily longer, but I wake up feeling fitter in the morning and just feel better overall. With Nordic walking, you easily release stress and positively influence your well-being. However, you should definitely make sure that the trail isn't too strenuous. If you push yourself too hard, you'll wake up with terrible muscle soreness the next day 🙂

5. Cardiovascular System

Through a casual Nordic walking session, you also train your lungs and heart. This allows more oxygen and air to be absorbed and more oxygen to be transported into the bloodstream. This naturally has a positive effect on the entire body.

6. Mobility

The entire musculoskeletal system is promoted by Nordic walking, but especially the upper body. If you combine your Nordic walking session with a few light strengthening and stretching exercises, you will notice after a short time that you have become more mobile and flexible.

7. Joints

Also, a very important aspect for me: Using Nordic walking poles reduces the strain on the joints. This also makes Nordic walking an ideal sport for beginners, as it is gentler on the joints than jogging. Furthermore, muscles, bones, and joints are strengthened, which can help prevent diseases. Especially if you are in the Bergen When you're out and about, your joints will thank you if you use poles accordingly. This is one of the key benefits of Nordic walking.

Nordic Walking Equipment

As with anything, equipment is the be-all and end-all of Nordic walking. You definitely shouldn't skimp here. I can highly recommend the Leki and Swix brands. Don't buy poles at a discount store, even if you're a beginner and just want to try it out. It will be less fun for you. If you have good poles and still want to quit, you can usually sell them on again quite well.

I also always make sure not to buy telescopic poles. This is an important point because telescopic poles „spring“ with you, making the pole feel unstable. For hiking, telescopic poles are ideal because you can attach them to your backpack, but for Nordic walking, I would always choose fixed poles. Then you can truly utilize and fully enjoy the benefits of Nordic walking.

Nordic Walking Course

The walking community is debating here =) I clearly recommend taking a Nordic walking course. There's a specific technique you should learn. That's the only way to ensure you don't develop postural problems, that the pole length is correct, and that the pole tip feels comfortable when you walk. In the course, you can usually test almost all available poles and systems.

All the benefits of Nordic walking will be of little use to you if you use the wrong equipment and perform the movements incorrectly. You'll also learn warm-up and stretching exercises. So, if something like this is offered where you are, definitely participate. That's how you do it at the gym at the beginning, too.

Conclusion: Advantages of Nordic Walking

As you can see, there are many reasons in favor of Nordic walking. I haven't been able to find anything negative so far. But perhaps you'll write something in the comments. Of course, you have to spend money on equipment, on poles and also good shoes, but in return, fresh air, nature, and all the trails are free. The advantages of Nordic walking are undeniable.

Have fun, and if you still have doubts... just start walking and enjoy nature!