Nordic Walking: Overview
Origin, Health Facts, Technique, Gear

This page presents a detailed overview of Nordic Walking, an efficient, low-stress exercise technique that involves the use of walking poles to engage the legs and upper body in a total body workout with clinically demonstrated physical and psychological benefits. The origin and health benefits of Nordic Walking are reviewed, followed by an introductory examination of the technique and equipment employed to achieve optimal results. Clinical references are included at the bottom of the page, and related links are presented at right. Sources from which to purchase the poles online are provided for both the United States and Canada.

N O R D I C   W A L K I N G... pole walking; walking with poles

Image Credit: Exel

Origins...

The origins of Nordic Walking may be traced to Finland, where, in the early 1930s,¹ cross-country skiers began using poles to positive effect during their summer training. In the 1980s, clinical studies correlated the use of trekking poles with fitness levels. Subsequent studies in the 1990s demonstrated that this simple, efficient exercise increased cardiovascular activity, significantly enhanced muscular and aerobic fitness, and improved overall vitality.

The term "Nordic Walking" was coined as a commercial English rendering of the Finnish, Sauvakävely, (FIN: sauva = pole; käveley = walking; walking with poles), which refers to an exercise technique using poles. Nordic Walking was developed by Finnish sports equipment manufacturer, Exel Oyj, in close cooperation with sports medicine researchers and other fitness professionals, and was officially launched in 1997.^1,2,3 It gained rapid attention and was widely adopted. By March 2005, some 760,000 Finns regularly participated in the activity⁴ and the trend had spread throughout Scandinavia and Europe, where it was estimated that about 3.5 million people regularly walk with poles, urged on by some 3,000 trained instructors.⁵

In the United States, in 1988, Tom Rutlin introduced the first specially designed fitness walking poles (Exerstrider®) and an exercise activity he called Exerstriding.^µ Similar in principle to the Finnish model of Nordic Walking, the Exerstrider Method uses a different grip and technique. Both approaches involve walking with poles to improve health and fitness, and each has its proponents (see comparison).

As educational programs sponsored by industry leaders promote the benefits achievable through correct use of the technique, interest has grown in other countries around the world, including the Australia and Japan.⁶  In North America, LEKI, Nordic Walking Online (ANWA), Urban Poling, and others provide organized programs, demonstration clinics and training aids for the growing number of individuals expressing interest in or already practicing the technique, on their own or in a local group.

[...] The reasons for the sport's popularity are many, according to Theo Walther, who runs the Theo Walther Nordic Walking School in Bonn. A trained Nordic Walking instructor since 2002, Walther said a growing interest in preventive medicine in Germany has raised interest in Nordic Walking.

"I think more than 50 percent of Germans have computer jobs. They don’t move enough and have health problems as a result," Walther said. "Nordic Walking can be tailored to people at all ages and stages of fitness or ability... It can be done like a competitive sport, but we also do it with handicapped people and in old age homes." ⁷

By 2010 it was estimated that worldwide, more than 10 million Nordic Walk.^¤

Nordic Walking can be adapted to individual fitness levels. It isn't just for the fitness enthusiast who wants a high-intensity, total body aerobic workout. Virtually everyone who can walk, and many who have difficulty walking, can go Nordic Walking.

Image Credit: LEKI USA Why is Nordic Walking better than just walking? Nordic Walking increases your heart rate, oxygen consumption and caloric expenditure without increasing your perceived rate of exertion. You don't feel like you're working any harder but, in addition to working your legs, you're experiencing a full range of motion that engages the abs, arms, shoulders, upper chest and back muscles. The poles provide additional stability and help reduce stress in the knees and other joints. Bone density can be increased through this sort of resistance training, and posture also improves through use of the proper technique and arm motion. Clinical and anecdotal reports indicate that this type of exercise may prove beneficial in broad range of conditions, including the arthrides, back pain, cardiac syndromes, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, obesity, osteoporosis, repetitive stress injury, thoracic outlet syndrome, depression, mood disorders, and more. Source: Walking is Good for Your Health - Nordic Walking may be even Better Kaj E. Rekola PhD MD. (2007) Retrieved 10.02.10 © Fifty-Plus Lifelong Fitness. [...] In Nordic Walking, poles resembling ski poles are used to involve the upper extremities in the walking exercise. The poles are equipped with wrist straps and rubber caps over the metal tips making it possible to use them on pavement while reducing the impact of the hard surface. Nordic walking has been used for summer training in competitive Nordic skiing to maintain and improve upper extremity strength and endurance as well as maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). It has been used in the United States at the University of Wisconsin in the rehabilitation of patients after myocardial infarction (MI). In the MI study, the oxygen uptake increased on average 21% compared to walking without poles. In a recent study at the Cooper Institute in Dallas, Texas, preliminary results showed an increase in the oxygen uptake (up to 46% in some individuals). The caloric expenditure increased accordingly. In addition to the increased energy cost that can have a training effect improving cardiovascular capacity, a recent study found beneficial effects in terms of neck and shoulder pain that are so common in our computerized society. Another study found that using hiking poles in simulation of uphill backpacking resulted in some reduction of the load on knees. In summary, Nordic walking is an exercise form with many advantages, both for the healthy individual needing a more vigorous exercise form, especially for cardiovascular benefits, and for an individual with restrictions from a medical condition that precludes jogging or running. It can also be advantageous for those with medical conditions of arthritic or neurological origin that make normal walking without support difficult. [...] For information on the use of poles in a range of medical conditions, for balance and mobility, rehabilitation and more, see below. The Positive Impact of Nordic Walking I am a long time fitness and health educator with a keen interest in and specialty of working with older adults. When considering the important role that maintaining proper posture and body alignment plays as we age, I am always impressed with the positive impact that Nordic Walking has in these areas. Those who use Nordic Walking poles for the first time are most always thrilled with the immediate postural corrections that they feel. Older adults, in particular, want to pay attention to lifting the rib cage, opening the front of the shoulders and feeling stronger in the upper back, knowing that this improvement can play a major role in fall prevention. I highly recommend that older adults get quality, Nordic Walking instruction and safe, top quality poles so that they have a positive, first experience. From that starting point, it is then safe [to] build time, intensity and frequency into their Nordic Walking program...for LIFE! Christine R. Schnitzer, Living Well - Aging Better, Christine Rose Enterprises, LLC The many benefits of Nordic Walking... Culled from multiple sources, including: LEKI | Exel | Swix | Nordic Walking UK | Nordic Walking Online And See: Clinical References & Related Studies Nordic Walking exercises 90% of all muscles. In ordinary walking, only the muscles of the buttocks and legs do significant work. See Realizing the Potential of Nordic Walking. Credit: Tom Rutlin, Exerstrider®. Adapted. Click image to enlarge. Heart rate is 5-17 beats per minute higher (e.g., 130 beats per minute in normal walking, versus 147 beats per minute in Nordic Walking). Increases oxygen consumption and burns approximately 400 calories per hour (compared with 280 calories per hour for normal walking). Releases pain and muscle tension in the neck and shoulder region, increasing the lateral mobility of the neck and spine. Total body workout involves 90% of all muscles; actively engages forearm extensor and flexor muscles, rear part of the shoulder muscles, the large pectoral and broad back muscles; strengthens upper body and creates resistance to build better bone density. Reduces load on knees and other joints. Reduces heel strike force. Consumes approximately 400 calories per hour (compared with 280 calories per hour for normal walking).

Warming UP for Nordic Walking
Source: LIVE TO NORDIC WALK. NORDIC WALK TO LIVE.

	QUAD STRETCH Stand up straight, holding pole for support. Gently bend your knee behind you to grasp your ankle with the other hand. Bring ankle towards glutes, hold for 15 seconds, then switch legs.
	HAMSTRING STRETCH Plant both poles shoulder-width apart. Place straight leg in front, heel on ground, toes pointed up. Gently bend other knee while leaning forward with straight back. Hold for 15 seconds, switch sides.
	CHEST/UPPER SHOULDER STRETCH Grasp pole behind back, hands a little wider than shoulder width. Lift pole up towards head until you feel stretch.
	LAT/BACK STRETCH Place poles well out in front of you. Lean on poles with straight arms. Bend upper body at waist downward; do not hyper-extend lower back.
	TRICEP/ARM STRETCH Grab the top of the pole grip with one arm. Bring pole over head and down back; grasp other end with other hand. Pull down on lower part until you feel stretch in back of arm.
	TORSO/LATERAL TWIST Grab pole with wide grip overhead. Standing up straight, bend at side, reaching opposite hand over head. After stretch, change sides, then come back to neutral. From neutral, gently twist torso until you feel stretch, then turn other way.

The Nordic Walking Technique Nordic Walking involves a simple enhancement of your normal arm swing, but this must be integrated with your walking movement to achieve the full benefits of the exercise. One of the best presentations available is provided by Bernd Zimmermann, at Nordic Walking Online. Bernd is the Founder and Master Coach of the American Nordic Walking Association (ANWA), which promotes Nordic Walking in the US. His Nordic Walking Instructional DVD/VHS, and his Nordic Walking e-book, can be ordered here. Bernd distinguishes between what he terms 2-wheel drive, when you're just walking, and 4-wheel drive, which takes you to "a brand new level" as you grip the poles and engage your upper body in the process. Source: Nordic Walking Online → Basic Technique Bernd's site features many useful illustrations. [E]very step should begin with the heel touching the ground and rolling forward to the ball and toe area, where you will push off to propel yourself forward. The hands should constantly be in a "grip-n-go" state with the pole. They should grip the pole every time the pole hits the ground, then let it go as it is drawn back behind the body, finishing up with an open hand. As the arms continue to move the poles, the torso and hips should be involved in a counter-swinging motion from the lower body. This effectively works the mid-torso muscle groups. [...] Some of the typical mistakes beginning Nordic walkers could make might be: Staying in "2-wheel drive" By not using the upper torso correctly as part of your workout, you remain in 2-wheel drive. Planting the poles too far from the body. Having the poles too wide lowers the effectiveness of your Nordic walking. Walking with Closed Hands Keeping your hands closed at all times does not allow for proper blood circulation. Walking with Open Hands Walking with hands open all the time reduces the efficiency of your poling. Improper leg and pole placement. If the pole and leg are placed on the same side, you are not able to perform the proper diagonal stride with the hips involved in a counter-swinging motion. Exerstride Method Nordic Walking The technique developed by Tom Rutlin, the Exerstride Method, utilizes strapless poles with an ergonomical grip designed to enable synergistic contractions of upper-body muscle groups. The Rutlin Technique is the also taught by Urban Poling, suppliers of equipment and instruction in many major centers across Canada. See the first video in the next section to learn about this technique. Source: How It Works Tom Rutlin, Exerstrider. Accessed 16 February 2012. Exerstride Method Nordic walking's unique “synergistic resistance” means working smarter, not harder and maximizing results! Begin to experience for yourself right now how the “synergistic resistance” of Exerstriding works. Just take a few seconds and follow these four simple steps: Raise your hands off of your computer keyboard and mouse and extend them out as if offering them for a friendly handshake on each side of the keyboard. Make two fists and place them on your desk with your thumbs up. Finally, sit upright and alternately press one fist, then the other firmly into the desk repeatedly for 15-20 repetitions. As you do this, notice how a wave of contractions goes through your abdominal muscles as well as large back, arm, shoulder, chest, and important “core strength” muscles contract each time you push. As you walk while using your Exerstrider Nordic walking poles, you'll simultaneously do 1,800 to 2,200 similar synergistic contractions of all these muscles per mile as you apply a similar force to your poles with each stride. With Exerstriding, because the work is shared by so many major muscles, you'll actually feel like you're working less while accomplishing much more, and with much less risk of injury. You’ll simply build more fitness in less time by simultaneously exercising all of the body’s major muscles. More than 50% of the body’s total muscle mass is in the upper body. With my easy-to-learn Exerstride Method Nordic walking techniques, you’ll put all of these muscles to good use with every step you take. Fitness experts emphasize the importance of upper body muscle conditioning in addition to aerobic fitness. With Exerstrider’s synergistic resistance, you’ll simultaneously enhance the aerobic effects of walking as well as build upper body muscle strength and endurance as you get a complete total body exercise. [...] Comparison of these two techniques... In an excellent article entitled Exerstriding vs. Nordic Walking Techniques, About.com Guide Walking Guide Wendy Bumgardner tells us that "[f]itness poles can be used with at least two different techniques". Tom Rutlin of Exerstrider has been a pioneering evangelist in the USA for walking with fitness poles, naming his technique exerstriding. It differs from the nordic walking technique later developed in Europe, where walkers use fitness walking poles when walking outdoors on sidewalks, paths and trails. What the two fitness walking pole techniques have in common is that the walker has two fitness walking poles and plants the poles in opposition to their foot motion. The walker exercises the upper body and core muscles in addition to the leg muscles, while relieving some impact on the lower body. The biggest difference between the exerstrider technique and the nordic walking technique is in the arm extension, which leads to differences in how the poles are planted, the backstroke, and the design of the poles. Image Credits: L: Nordic Walking U.S.. Adapted. [G]ripping the pole should be compared to holding a little, live bird in your hand. In other words: don’t let it escape, but do not squeeze the life out of it! — Marek Zalewski. LC: Wendy Bumgartner. About.com. |  RC: Live for the Outdoors. | R: inSPORTline. Adapted. LR: Nordixx.com. Adapted. Click any image to visit source or enlarge. Differences in Exerstrider Walking Poles vs. Nordic Walking Poles Exerstrider poles do not have straps or demi-gloves as nordic walking poles do. The straps or gloves allow nordic walkers to release the poles at the end of the backstroke and catch the grips as they move forward to the front stroke/pole plant. Instead, exerstrider pole grips have a large flared portion of the grip. This grip comes into play with how the poles are designed to be used when planted. Many trekking poles have a similar design, so exerstriding technique may be used with trekking poles. You cannot use nordic walking technique with trekking poles as they lack the needed glove or strap. Difference in Pole Plant/Arm Swing for Exerstriding vs. Nordic Walking Image Credit: Urban Poling. Adapted. The exerstriding technique has the walker extend the pole forwards and plant it while the arm is at the handshake position. The walker then pushes the pole firmly while stepping forward, like a pump handle. The flared bottom portion of the grip allows for putting pressure on the pole during this arm stroke. The walker keeps a grip on the pole handle at all times. In nordic walking, the poles are continuously angled backwards and the pole plant comes when the arm is bent, then a more gentle resistance is given while stepping forward. The hand eventually releases the pole completely on the backstroke, with the glove or strap snapping the pole grip back into the palm as it comes forward. [See:] Nordic Walking Technique Muscle Engagement Rutlin believes this is superior to the arm position/backstroke of the nordic walking technique. "You can get the same result from standing with your arm on a counter top (or even when seated by extending your arm out over your table or desk) and pushing down first with the elbow bent at 90 degrees, and then with the arm extended out into the handshake position. In both positions, the first thing you're likely to notice is how the tricep muscle (on the back of the upper arms) contracts. As you push down with both arm positions, note the intensity of the muscle contractions in the pectoral, abdominal, latissimus dorsi, and spinal erector (back) muscles." [...] See also: What's the Difference? — What's the difference between Exerstriding, Nordic walking, pole-walking and trekking?  — Tom Rutlin, Exerstrider. Accessed 16 February 2012. Definition of Nordic Walking — International Nordic Walking Association Source: Definition of Nordic Walking INWA (Last Updated (Tuesday, 07 December 2010 16:32) Accessed 19 February 2012. Nordic Walking is a form of physical activity, where to regular natural walking there has been added the active use of a pair of specially designed Nordic Walking poles. However, the characteristics of natural, biomechanically correct walking and appropriate posture are maintained in all aspects. It also means that the arm movements of the correct NW technique respect the range of movement of natural walking. Additionally there are some features of Cross-country skiing (Classical technique) involved, such as: Backward pole position during the loading phase, Control of the poles through grip and strap, Active and dynamic use of poles. Technically correct use of poles actively involves the upper body into the work of walking, to propel the body forward. The physical strain is distributed in a versatile, balanced and appropriate way to various muscle groups of the whole body. Founded in 2000, INWA is the only international organisation authorized by the Finnish creators of Nordic Walking to promote, develop and safeguard the principles and characteristics of Nordic Walking worldwide. In co-operation with professionals in sports, health and fitness, INWA develops innovative teaching methods and educational programs in Nordic Walking. INWA also collaborates with the scientific and medical communities offering research guidelines. INWA has over 20 official member organisations, and INWA Nordic Walking Instructors have been certified in over 40 countries around the world. Official Partners include Exel, Exercise is Medicine™, and Tafisa. The correct pole technique gives an opportunity to significantly intensify the process of walking by increasing the muscle work of the upper body. It also gives an opportunity to involve the muscles of the rest of the body. Nordic Walking is a safe, natural, dynamic, efficient and suitable-for-all form of a physical activity that trains the body in an holistic, symmetric and balanced way. The overall goal of Nordic Walking is a general physical and mental well-being. Nordic Walking is based on the following cornerstones and principles: Safe, healthy, bio-mechanically correct movements and gait Correct body alignment and correct posture Natural and fluid movements that engage the muscles of the upper and lower body as well as the core Symmetric and complete training of the whole body Effective aerobic conditioning due to activation of both large and small muscle groups that provide rhythmic and dynamic movements Increased blood circulation and metabolism Continuous alternation of activation and relaxation of the muscles involved, promoting relief in tight muscles Intensity and goals of training can easily be adapted for individual needs Learned skills that can be transferred to everyday life Physical exercise suitable for all, irrespective of age, sex or physical condition A non-competitive physical activity. Consequently, the technique and also teaching of Nordic Walking are based on three main pillars: Correct walking technique Correct posture Correct use of poles
Online Training & Nordic Walking VIDEOS   VideosChannels Nordic walking warm-up (9.3MB / 04:27) Nordic walking technique (7.4MB / 03:28) Pole-length adjustment (3.4MB / 01:35) Wrist-strap adjustment (4.7MB / 02:13) In the following video, presented by Urban Poling, Canada's leader in Nordic Walking poles and accessories, Mandy Shintani demonstrates the Tom Rutlin Technique, which helps maximize your walking workout to provide the best core/ab workout while reducing strain on your lower joints. → Urban Poling / Nordic walking YouTube Channel The next video provides an excellent introduction to the Finnish style of Nordic Walking, covering correct pole height and strap adjustment through basic and advanced techniques. Source of the video is Klaus Schwanbeck PhD, author of The Ultimate Nordic Pole Walking Book (Cardinal Publishers Group; 2nd edition; 1 March 2012), and founder of Nordixx Pole Walking Canada Inc., launched in May 2010. Schwanbeck is also President and CEO of Nordic Pole Walking USA LLC., in Naples, Florida. Both organizations provide training, certification, poles and accessories. For more information about Schwanbeck's work, see Nordixx Pole Walking Canada is helping improve public health. For a written presentation, with telescopic pole height-adjustment chart and pictures, see Teaching Booklet. Hat tip to Marek Zalewski, of Nordic Walking U.S., for this next one — a good, straightforward Nordic Walking instructional video in which LEKI-trained Nordic Walking instructor Jayah Faye Paley teaches the basics, including adjusting your poles correctly. Uploaded to YouTube in early 2007, Nordic Walking — an Introduction has been viewed 338,062 times at this writing. Visual production is less than stellar, but sound quality is good. LEKI-trained instructor Nate Goldberg shows just how easily you can Nordic Walk. The next video clearly shows the grip-and-release technique when using poles with straps. The pole is gripped when it is brought forward, and released at the end of the backward push. Holen Sie für sich das optimale aus dieser attraktiven Ganzjahressportart heraus und lernen Sie mit professioneller Anleitung. Nordic Walking ist ein attraktiver Ganzjahressport, beinhaltet aber wesentlich mehr als einfach "mit-Stöcken-loszulaufen". Die vergleichsweise geringen Einstiegskosten verleiten jedoch viele genau dies zu tun und dabei essentielle Vorteile dieser Sportart zu verpassen. Verbesserung der Körperhaltung, Optimierung von Körperkoordination, Kraft, Beweglichkeit und Ausdauer sowie erfolgreicher Bekämpfung des Übergewichtes sind nur einige von vielen Pluspunkten dieses Freizeitsports. Ob als Einzelner oder in der Gruppe, jung und alt können gemeinsam mit "Spaß dabei" sein! Auf diesem Video erfahren Sie unter kompetenter Anleitung alles Wissenswerte dazu. Von der Grobform bis zur Feinform werden alle relevanten Bewegungsabläufe vorgeführt und zum Nachmachen anschaulich dargestellt. Übungen zur Dehnung der Muskulatur runden diesen Kurs ab. Unter dem Punkt Variationen finden sich als Anregung interessante weitere Ausprägungsformen für Fortgeschrittene und Hinweise zur Feinstform. Der Trainer geht auf immer wieder gern germachte Fehler ein, die bereits bei der falschen Auswahl der Stöcke beginnen können und beim unrichtigem Bewegungsablauf enden. Chinook Aventure, headquartered in Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, offers Nordic Walking in addition to a range of activities (hiking, mountaineering, sea-kayaking, climbing...) and adventure tourism, organized trips in Quebec and other countries. The following video provides a good overview of Nordic Walking, demonstrating both equipment and technique. Voici une petite idée de ce que peut vous apporter la marche nordique, une activité grandissante en popularité au Québec. Elle s'est fait connaître dans les pays scandinave dans les années 80 et s'est introduite au Québec au début des années 2000. C'est en 2006 que Chinook Aventure l'aura propulsé comme entraînement en groupe, supervisé par un entraîneur. Ce fut un beau succès pour l'entreprise qui offre maintenant l'activité dans plus de 20 municipalités au Québec La marche nordique est parfaire pour soit se remettre en forme, rencontrer de nouvelles personnes, augmenter ses capacité cardio-respiratoire. Qu'est-ce que la marche nordique ? from KURV.TV on Vimeo. National Master Trainer, Patrick Burtscher demonstrates Correct Nordic Walking and Technique Variations; Up- and Downhill techniques; Nordic Jogging, Nordic Striding, Nordic Skating; Double Poling on every 2nd and every 3rd step. Nordic Walking with Nordic Academy Australia.
Using Poles for Fitness and Rehabilitation — The Activator™ Activator Poles are revolutionizing fitness and rehabilitation for individuals with chronic conditions, those recovering from injuries as well as older adults who require more stability and balance when walking. Designed by a Canadian therapist, there are 8 unique features to provide the highest quality for safety and effectiveness. Walking with the Activator poles also reduces impact on your knee joints, improves core strengthening, improves posture and helps to promote a functional gait pattern. For a full description of the 8 unique features, technique, criteria and research, go to ACTIVATOR™. More Info | Order Retail Price: $99.99 CAD Limited Time Price: $89.99 + Free Shipping within Canada You can also order the Activator poles by phone, toll free, at 1-877-499-7999. Using Poles For Balance & Mobility Using POLES For Balance & Mobility Jayah Faye Paley (19 January 2009) Award-winning DVD, top notch training: POLES for Mobility. Poles can help people of ALL ages to achieve, maintain and often regain mobility. Bi-lateral stability feels GOOD. Anyone with challenged balance will enjoy seeing how using poles for walking can help them achieve and maintain mobility.

The Equipment...

Specifically designed poles are used to engage the upper body in Nordic Walking. Exel developed and manufactured the first Nordic Walking poles, described elsewhere on this page, and other companies also began producing Nordic Walking equipment. Among these, LEKI has risen to the forefront of design and development innovation in trekking and Nordic Walking technology.

About LEKI...

LEKI, the world’s leading manufacturer of ski, hiking and trekking poles had its start in Kircheim, Germany as a hobby of its founder, Karl Lenhart, an airframe mechanic and avid skier. Lenhart developed an aluminum tempering process that produces a pole shaft of incomparable strength. For over 50 years, LEKI has introduced a series of technological “firsts” including a dual-component adjustable pole-locking technology. Today, LEKI is the world’s leading manufacturer of ski, hiking and trekking poles which can be found in use anywhere from the slopes of Aspen to the summit of Mount Everest. LEKI confidently warrantees all Nordic Walking Pole models for life.

The following images partially illustrate the range of innovations contributed by LEKI. They include the SuperLock internal locking system, the Nordic Walking Shark System (trigger-loop connection), the Summer Shark (the first Nordic Walking glose which is also a strap), and the power trigger strap. For LEKI's full product line, see Smart Art — Summer 2012, the LEKI catalogue (— this very large PDF may take some time to download).

The choice of poles is very much an individual thing. Some people prefer fixed length. Some prefer adjustable. In the following presentation, I've selected a range of manufacturers and distributors to indicate the variety of available products. Bear in mind that "Nordic Walking" involves the use of poles equipped with straps that allow the user to release grip on the pole at the end of the backward push just before the pole is regrasped on the swing forward. The "Exerstrider" technique developed by Tom Rutlin does not use hand straps but an ergonomically designed hand grip that supports the lateral edge of the hand; the walker holds the grip and pushes down on this support when the pole is planted to the front, then pulls/pushes backward while moving beyond the pole, never releasing the grip. The differences in pole grips and technique are illustrated above, and a more complete description of the Exerstrider grip is presented below.

Some links will take you to the respective site where the poles can be purchased. US and Canadian online outlets are also listed in the lower right sidebar of this page.

Nordic Walking Poles and Products from Different Manufacturers and Sources
LEKI Instructor (Black) Instructor (Sahara) Supreme Vario XS (for Kids) Traveller Carbon (Black) Traveller Carbon (Red) Traveller Speed Pacer Vario Speed Pacer Vario (White) Nordic Walking Accessories Nordic Walking Innovations Store Locator LEKI Catalogue Summer 2012		EXEL Nordic Walker® Poles Nordic Walker® Ultimate Nordic Walker® Sport Alis Nordic Walking® Trainer Alis Nordic Walker® Trainer CR Nordic Walker® Stride Nordic Walker® Active Nordic Walker® Tour Nordic Walker® Formula Nordic Walker® Shape Nordic Walker® Black Poison Nordic Walker® Adjust Nordic Walker® Junior TRAIL NORDIC WALKER® NORDIC BLADER® OUTDOOR 2010
KOMPERDELL Featherlight Foam Nordic Walking Traveller Carbon Carbon Vario Nordic Walking Alu Vario Spirit		NORDIXX [Klaus Schwanbeck, author of The Ultimate Nordic Pole Walking Book] Nordixx Global Traveler (3-section) Nordixx Global Walker (2-section)
		KEENFIT 2-Piece Walking Poles 3-Piece Walking Poles
		LOUIS GARNEAU Helium (Fixed Length)
		GABEL (Italy) USA Performance | Professional/Sport | Extensible Canada Performance | Professional/Sport | Extensible
		Gymstick™ Nordic Walking
		FIZAN (Italy)
SKI WALKING Primary distributor of SWIX and EXEL in the United States. EXEL SWIX Features: • Made In Lillehammer, Norway. • Carbon Composite shaft. • SWIX Removable Rubber Tips/    Asphalt Paws • Durable Carbide Metal Tips for    off-road, trails, snow, ice and    the beach. • Ergonomic PC Grip. • Nordic Walking Pro Fit Straps -    Patented by Salomon Ski Company • FREE Nordic Walking DVD • ALL sizes in-stock &    Ready to SHIP - FAST Shipping! • Perfect Length Guarantee • LifeTime Breakage Guarantee    on the Pole Shaft • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee WARNING: Seniors and individuals with balance issues should NOT use twist-lock or flip-lock adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles! Especially avoid the cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock 2-piece and 3-piece poles from China. For everyday use please consider our durable and user friendly one-piece design SWIX Nordic Walking VIP Poles that sell for only $69.95 per pair and are proven safer, lighter and much more durable than twist-lock and flip-lock poles.		Nordic Walking Experts LEKI Fully Adjustable Poles Partially Adjustable Poles Fixed Length Poles EXEL Fixed Length Poles Adjustable Poles SWIX Fixed Length Poles NORDIC COMPOSITE Nordic Blading Instruction DVD Nordic Walking Accessories Nordic Walking Value Package (2634) Free Shipping within the continental US. $187.50 USD
EXERSTRIDER Shown below are two of the four different styles. Our OS2 total body walking poles deliver world class Nordic walking performance, value and quality! The OS2 series poles deliver world class performance, value and quality with extremely effectively vibration dampening and whisper quiet operation! The two-piece telescoping versions offer these additional features... Feature our exclusive ERGO /SC ergonomic strapless grips for unparalleled and unrestricted comfort Feature our exclusive EZ-fit™ size markings on the lower shaft and a cam locking system that can be adjusted precisely to your exact height and securely locked in seconds with a twist of the wrist. Compact to 31' (79cm) for more convenient travel and storage People of different heights can share the same poles They'll grow with children's changing heights Equipped with both hardened carbide tips and CushionGrip™ tips Come complete with Tom Rutlin's 5-star rated Exerstride Method Nordic Walking Instructional video (DVD) and printed Instruction Manual and User's Guide (A $19.95 value if purchased separately!) Standard model fits any user 4'-2' to 6'-2' (XL fits up to 6'-8') The OS2 telescoping model offers great convenience and versatility for those who wish to carry their poles when they travel, for growing children, for family members or friends who want to share a single pair of poles and for those who want to be able to use their poles just about anywhere. These models come with both hardened carbide-tipped ferrules AND our Cushion tips (which fit over the carbide tips). The hardened carbide-tipped ferrules provide sure grip on anything from rock to ice and our exclusive Cushion tips allow you to use the poles on any stable natural surface, pavement, or even on fitness club tracks or at the mall! Two-piece high quality aluminum alloy construction. Emerald Green with black and silver graphics. Maximum barefoot height for AT/S standard model is 6' 2' (Available in XL for users to 6'8') $99.95 USD ACTIVATOR™ Medisport Edition™ Our new telescoping model, the ACTIVATOR, was designed primarily for physical therapists and other medical specialist who requested that we offer a simple, safe locking mechanism on an adjustable pole that would work better for people with arthritis or limited hand strength. Feature our exclusive ERGO /SC ergonomic strapless grips for unparalleled and unrestricted comfort. This model features a pop-button/hole adjusting system like that commonly used on canes and walkers and easily adjusts from 41' to 51' to fit users from 4'-4' to 6'-1'. NOTE: Because of the pop-button adjusting system this model is not as whisper quiet in use as our other two-piece poles. Compact to 31' (79cm) for more convenient travel and storage. People of different heights can share the same poles. Equipped with both hardened carbide tips and Cushiongrip™ tips. (If the poles are to be used primarily for balance, the Bell-Shaped balance tips are recommended and must be ordered as a separate accessory.) Come complete with Tom Rutlin's 5-star rated Exerstride Method Nordic Walking Instructional video (DVD) and printed Instruction Manual and User's Guide (a $19.95 value if purchased separately!). Two-piece high quality aluminum alloy construction. Plum/Dark Magenta, with silver graphics. $89.95 USD.
Adventure (Hiking/Fitness) Series 300 (Fitness) 4Life Pink (Fitness) Activator Professional (Rehab) Overview Adventure poles equipped to take you where you want to go, regardless of the terrain or season. A great starter pole used by thousands of people in nordic walking classes all across Canada. Same as the Series 300 (except colour) but with 2% of the purchase price donated to breast cancer research. Designed for rehabilitation and older adults who need more stability, balance and confidence while walking. Price FREE shipping within Canada. $114.99   $99.99   $99.99   SPECIAL → $89.99   Features & Functions Strapless Handle Telescoping Poles Premium Lock Traction Tips Carbide Metal Tip Training DVD & Pamphlet Snow & Trekking Baskets Premium Button Lock Bell Tips Training Pamphlet New — 3-Section Adventure Series Now 20% Shorter $119.99   Compare 2- and 3-section poles The perfect traveling companion Collapses to 25.5 in / 64.8 cm ERGO core grip handles Trekking and snowbaskets Instructional DVD One-size-fits-all telescoping poles. Ideal for individuals between 128cm to 188cm (4’2" to 6’2") in height. All poles are light weight: 280 grams or 0.6 lbs Source: The Evolution of Nordic Walking Urban Poling. Accessed 16 February 2012. Link and grip image added. Why Strapless Handles? The ergonomic strapless handle on our Nordic Walking Poles was carefully designed to most effectively exercise all the body’s major muscles and develop “core fitness” as you are poling! Just like your walking shoes, we designed a left and a right handed grip for maximum comfort. No straps you ask? Designed from a health and fitness perspective we do not want to see our clients strapped into our poles. Walking with poles is very safe but by not using straps we can prevent any possible skier’s like thumb injuries. (The term skier’s thumb is generally refers to a hyperextension of the thumb) – Safety always comes first! By not having straps on your poles you’re getting more value – performance, comfort and safety. This is the “evolution” of Nordic walking! Secondly, our grip design is highly functional when your hand loosely sits on the flared base of handle. When correctly used with our technique you will more effectively targets your core muscles, described in detail in our instructional DVD. Essentially, each time you swing your arm forward, you must plant your pole into the ground and as you walk through your stride you push off or “propel” yourself forward. The slight downward pressure you apply with your hand as you push off is resisted by the base of the grip. It is this motion that activates your core muscles. Consider this, if you walk one mile with the poles you will achieve 1800 abdominal muscles contractions and 900 lateral muscle contractions, per side! [...] Reduce Impact On Lower Joints As you activate the muscles in your arms, back and core area, you effectively reduce the load on your lower joints. This means that you can walk further and more frequently, with less pain and discomfort in your knees and hips. The handle design also promotes better posture while you’re walking, keeping you upright and with the proper spinal curvature. [...] The Urban Poling Boot Tip The other feature of Urban Poles that sets us apart from other Nordic walking poles on the market is our high quality boot-like tip, which reduces the vibration that travels up the pole and into your hands and arms. The boot tips have three functions: They flex on contact with the ground for a softer feel and absorb shock and vibrations reducing stress to your joints. The tread provides better contact and creates resistance as you apply force to the poles. The tips help propel you forward faster to achieve a better workout. Urban Poling boot tips are made from high grade rubber. However, with regular use (2-3 times per week over a year) the tread will likely be worn down and the boot tips should be replaced.

Sources Cited

1. The Birth of Nordic Walking,
   International Nordic Walking Association (INWA)
   NOTE: The following is a compilation of information from two sources, one of which is no longer found on the INWA site but is still available at The Internet Archive, captured 15 March 2010, when it was entitled Evolution of Nordic Walking. To that original I have added newer material from The Birth of Nordic Walking page on the INWA site, accessed 17 February 2012. Added images, original "Sauvakävely" advertisement and manual, from Marko Kantaneva.
   

   The use of the walking poles is as old as Methuselah. Why people started to use them is unknown. Was it because as human beings aged they developed rounded shoulders and sunken chest and became afraid of falling over, so needed an extra support when walking?

   Fact is, that in prehistoric times, [shepherds] and pilgrims used one or two sticks to make it easier to walk on uneven surfaces. Unloading the joints and extra stability were some of the early benefits of walking with sticks. On long treks, walks in the mountains or hills, the walking pole found its rightful place in walking.

   Another forerunner of Nordic Walking was the use of the poles in the training methods of the cross country skiers in summer time. This application of training is written in literature as 'pole training' and has been used since the beginning of the 20th century. After the fall of the iron curtain in Germany, trainers from the west compared their training methods to those of the Eastern bloc and it revealed that the Eastern bloc trainers had also been using this training method for several years. Their training with poles in summer was important in order not to lose coordination and muscle power of the arms and trunk over the summer.

   • 1980's
     

     05/01/88 - The first public walking event with ski poles organized by Tuomo Jantunen - Suomen Latu.
     Credit: L'Associazione Nordic Walking Italia (ANWI).

     • First public trials of walking with ski poles take place in Finland. Sport colleges offer walking with poles as an new form of exercising. Development of walking with poles (later known as Nordic Walking) starts as a fitness sport suitable for all.
   • 1990's
     
     • Scientific research of Power Walking and Exerstriding in the USA is published. First scientific tests about the health benefits of Nordic Walking are carried out in Finland.
   • 1996
     • Nordic Walking, in its present form, was established when Suomen Latu (The Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities), Vierumäki the Finnish Sports Institute and a Finnish composite sporting goods manufacturer Exel joined together to develop walking with poles.
     • In Finnish language the sport was called “sauvakävely”, pole walking.
     • First articles and brochures about Nordic Walking were produced. Test and studies about Nordic Walking and development of a concept started.
     • More and more experimental events of "sauvakävely" (walking with poles), first articles were published.
     • The key person in launching and promoting Nordic Walking in Finland: Tuomo Jantunen, director of the Suomen Latu (The Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities).
   • 1997
     
     
     1997: The first ever made nordic walking advertisement.
     Credit: Marko Kataneva.
     • Exel invents the name “Nordic Walking” for international use and introduces the first composite Nordic Walker® pole in Finland as a result of co-operation with Suomen Latu and the Finnish Sports Institute and starts developing the marketing concept for the sport.
     • First instructional materials for Nordic Walking and first Nordic Walking Instructor courses by Suomen Latu.
     • Publication of the leaflet inside the “Latu ja Polku” magazine of Suomen Latu and the “official launch” of the physical activity called “sauvakävely”. International launch and boom of Nordic Walking begins.
       

       
       Facsimile of the original 1997 publication “Sauvakävely”, written by Marko Kantaneva in April 1997 and subsequently published in the Autumn of that year. In the meantime, Exel Oyj produced their “Walker®” branded nordic walking pole following the size guidelines recommended by Marko which involved three lengths of 120cms, 125cms and 130cms. These poles were to be the first strapped nordic walking poles on the market. Written in straightforward language, avoiding scientific jargon, “Sauvakävely” is the first groundbreaking manual for the teaching the technique of what was to become known worldwide as nordic walking. Credit: Marko Kataneva.

       The Finnish Copyright Council (2009:16) accorded copyright protection under Finnish law to Marko Kantaneva and his business partners for the term “Original Nordic Walking” because sauvakävely, internationally known as Nordic Walking, was created in 1997, based on Kantaneva's article Sauvakävely. The new Marko Store features his eBook, Original Nordic Walking, in Finnish and in English, as well as his own brand of poles and accessories. From Marko Store:

       Original Nordic Walking E-BOOK SAMPLE PAGES: To read sample pages, click here. With a lot of illustrative material, in this book, the creator of Nordic Walking Marko Kantaneva talks about the history and development of nordic walking, in particular, gives specific advice regarding nordic walking. € 9.00 FIN | € 9.00 ENG Accessed 14.04.12.

   • 1998
     
     • First NW Instructor courses organized by Suomen Latu / Tuomo Jantunen.
     • First training centre of sauvakävely: the “cottage” of Suomen Latu at Paloheinä, Helsinki.
     • Presentations in the other Scandinavian countries.
     • Presentation to the President Martti Ahtisaari.
     • 160.000 Finns practise regularly NW, 520.000 have already tried it (Suomen Gallup) (Population of Finland: 5,3 million).
     • National Award “The Health Promoting Action of the Year” (Vuoden terveysteko) given to Suomen Latu.
     • The first ever Nordic Walking training centre at Paloheinä, Helsinki.
   • 1999
     • Nordic Walking is introduced first in Switzerland, then in Germany and Austria.
   • 2000
     • International Nordic Walking Association is established in Finland to promote and teach Nordic Walking worldwide.
     • First draft of International education system and materials is developed.
     • Exel gets Innovation Finland 2000 main prize for the development of Nordic Walking internationally.
     • Research project with Cooper Institute starts.
   • 2001
     • Exel is the finalist of Brand New Brand competition with Nordic Walking concept, ISPO Winter 2001.
     • First official INWA-member countries are Germany and Austria.
     • First international Nordic Walking video is produced in co-operation between INWA and Exel.
   • 2002
     • The "Nordic Fitness Sports" concept is introduced and the first basics of the "Nordic Fitness Sports Park" concept is developed.
     • First INWA Convention was held in Vierumäki Sports Institute in Finland.
   • 2003
     • The number of the participants Nordic Walking worldwide doubled from one to over two million
   • 2004
     • Nordic Walking and Nordic Fitness Sports is the main theme in the International Sporting Goods Exhibition ISPO.
     • Shoe and clothing brands like Adidas, Meindl, Odlo etc. start selling shoes and clothing specially designed for Nordic Walking.
     • The "Nordic Fitness Sports Park" concept goes public.
     • Nordic Walking starts spreading outside of Europe [...]
   • 2010: present in over 40 countries, about 10 million practicants.


The “official launch” of Nordic Walking took place in 1997. The new sport was called sauvakävely, pole walking, and the English term Nordic Walking was coined in translation. Exel produced the first poles designed specifically for this physical activity: “Walker” and “Nordic Walker”, shown in the above image above. Credit: INWA and L'Associazione Nordic Walking Italia (ANWI).
Below is an advertisement by Finnish company Exel. Sauvakävely eli Nordic Walking, which appears at upper right, just below the product name "Nordic Walker™", translates as "Sauvakävely or Nordic Walking". Kantaneva M. SAUVAKÄVELY. Suomen Latu ry, Suomalainen ryhtiliike ry, Latu ja Polku (special edition - week. 36,1997) - Exel Oyj 5/1999 Mainostoimisto Precis / Hämeenlinna.
Credit: Wikipedia.



2. Source:
   Nordic Walking Presentation
   Aki Karihtala, Vice President, Sports, Exel Oyj; Snowpolis 25.11.2005.

   EVOLUTION OF NORDIC WALKING

   • Early 1930 Finnish cross-country ski team started exercising with cross-country skiing technique also during the summer by walking and running with hand held ski poles. Since that this has been an important off-season training method for the competitive cross country skiers.
   • Early 1980’s first trials of walking with ski poles with public in Finland.
   • 1996 first researches and tests of the physical effects of walking with poles in Finland. Three partners, Suomen Latu (recreational outdoor sports association), Finnish Sports Institute and a Finnish composite sporting goods manufacturer Exel joined forces and decided to introduce this new physical activity to the public.
   • In 1997 Exel invents and introduces the name “Nordic Walking” for international use.
   • Exel introduces the first carbon fibre “Nordic Walker” pole in Finland as a result of co-operation with the Finnish Sports Institute and develops the marketing and promotion concept for Nordic Walking internationally.
   • In 1998 Nordic Walking is introduced in Sweden, Norway and Switzerland followed by Germany and Austria in 1999
   • In 2000 International Nordic Walking Association INWA was established in Finland with the support of Exel. President of Finland grants Exel the First Prize in InnoSuomi-competition for the innovative development of Nordic Walking.
   • In 2002 Exel introduces the Nordic Fitness Sports Concept and develops the Nordic Fitness Sports Park concept.
   • In 2003 the number of the participants in Nordic Walking worldwide doubled from one to over two million
   • In 2004 Nordic Walking and Nordic Fitness Sports is the main theme in the International Sporting Goods Exhibition ISPO. Shoe and clothing brands like Adidas, Meindl, Odlo etc. start selling shoes and clothing specially designed for Nordic Walking. Nordic Walking activities of Exel start strongly in North America and Asia. German Fit for Fun Magazine named Nordic Fitness Sports as the megatrend of Europe for 2005.
3. Nordic Walking — Step by Step
   David Downer (2006:18-19)

   While studying and working at the Finnish Sports Institute at Vierumäki (1994–1997), Finnish Pole Walking pioneer Marko Kantaneva was developing his own ideas for combining Fitness Walking with his passion for Nordic (Cross-Country) Skiing. The result of Marko’s work was the ‘total body’ exercise concept of Sauvakavely, or Pole Walking in English.

   Pole = Sauva:
   Walking = Kavely.

   By the spring of 1997, Marko had written the first Pole Walking article to be published in the newsletter of Suomen Latu (The Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities). He was then commissioned by Suomen Latu to write a Pole Walking training program.

   Ski pole manufacturer Exel Oyj joined forces with Suomen Latu to promote the concept of Pole Walking to the Finnish consumer. Exel Oyj met Marko at a photo shoot, where they invited him to help them design their poles. Marko agreed and provided his specifications and the original figures for their pole height chart. [...]

   [...] Marko Kantaneva has since joined Australian Pole Walker, Michael Gates, in cofounding PoleAbout.com.

   The History of Nordic Walking - A Clarification
   David Downer, Nordic Walking News (30 September 2005)

   Exerstriding: A workout for everyone.
   The Capital Times. Madison, Wisconsin, USA. (13 December 1988).
   Obtained from Rutlin, Welcome to the home of the original.

   Exerstriding involves pushing with the modified ski poles as you walk or run. The added arm push works the large muscles of the upper body and ˜supercharges' any walking or running program.

   Beginner’s Guide to Nordic Walking
   Tom Rutlin, Exerstrider (25 May 2011) Accessed 18 February 2012.

   The History of Nordic walking
   Nordic skiers may have used their ski poles for off-season training perhaps as far back as the days when Nordic skiers, like hikers, used only a single pole. Ski-bounding or ski-striding with a pair of poles has certainly been an essential part of off-season training for any serious competitive Nordic skier for decades.

   Although the European Nordic walking community generally asserts that fitness walking with poles as a unique exercise form began with its introduction in Finland in 1997, others credit an American pole walking innovator and creator of Exerstride Method Nordic Walking – Tom Rutlin, with being the “founding father of Nordic walking”. David Downer, author of Nordic Walking Step By Step, asserts that “As a form of exercise in its own right and completely detached from skiing, hiking and trekking, the activity of fitness walking using specially designed poles was pioneered in the U.S. by cross-country skier and certified ski coach Tom Rutlin in 1985?.

   The indisputable fact is that this relatively new total body exercise hybrid of walking and cross-country or “Nordic” skiing is deeply rooted in an off-season ski training technique long practiced by Nordic skiers all around the globe. [...]

   Nordic Walking History

   Marko Kantaneva demonstrates his original Nordic Walking technique,
   developed in 1997.³ (18.12.08)
   The correct way to Nordic walk, enabling you to derive 20% to 50% more benefit from your exercise session. For additional videos by Kanteneva, see his channel page.

   The Pioneering Work of Tom Rutlin, in the United States

   Source:
   Nordic Walking Guru » Nordic walking … is it a sport, or simply a healthy physical activity?
   Tom Rutlin, Exerstirder, nordicwalkingguru.com. Accessed 15 February 2012.

   The Exerstride method Nordic walking “functional fitness” paradigm
   When I published my first instructional manual back in 1988, I expressed my opinion that Exerstriding was not really suited to competition. My vision of the future was then, and remains today, as merely a healthy physical activity that would both benefit and have strong and lasting appeal to people of all ages and abilities – old and young, athletes and non-athletes alike.

   Exerstrider Nordic Walking video from 1992 Part 1 (YouTube: 12.11.08) Double-click to enlarge

   Exerstrider Nordic Walking video from 1992 Part 2 (YouTube: 12.11.08) Double-click to enlarge

   My version of Nordic walking recommends that one always maintains a comfortable, natural stride length as well as a comfortable, natural walking pace. In order to increase the intensity of Exerstride method Nordic walking, my recommendation has, from the very beginning, been to increase the intensity of the force one applies to the poles with the large muscles of the upper body with each stride rather than to increase the walking tempo, stride length, and unwittingly the impact forces as the heels strike the ground.

   The two videos at right, transferred to DVD from the original 1992 VHS version made by Tom Rutlin, developer of Exerstrider®, describe his approach to fitness walking with specially designed poles (Nordic walking). They were created to "explain" this totally new concept of exercise to people with no prior knowledge of it. "In 1992 I made my first instructional video to distribute along with each pair of poles I sold. From 1988 until that time, those new to Exerstriding had only my early printed instruction manual to use as a learning tool. Having struggled a great deal attempting to learn to Nordic ski with only the aid of a few illustrated books on the subject back in the 70s, as soon as I could afford to buy what was at the time a 'high tech' video recorder, I enlisted the help of my brother-in-law (a photographer) and we put together this rather crudely produced video." This is an important historical record. "As you will see," adds Rutlin, "very little has changed in terms of the technique I have advocated since 1988."
   — Source: Tom Rutlin shares his first instructional video, Clair Walter (13.11.08)
   Retrieved 19.02.10.

4. Nordic Walking Presentation
   Aki Karihtala, Vice President, Sports, Exel Oyj; Snowpolis 25.11.2005.
   

   POPULARITY OF NORDIC WALKING IN FINLAND (population 5.2 mill.) Number of Finns (61% female, 39% male) participating in Nordic Walking at least once a week. Presently over 15% of the total population of Finns Nordic Walk. NORDIC WALKING COUNTRIES (presently over 30) Finland Sweden Norway Denmark Poland Germany Austria Switzerland Estonia New Zealand Netherlands Belgium France Slovenia Slovakia Croatia Italy United Kingdom Taiwan Japan Australia Spain Canada Iceland U.S.A. Czech Republic Kuwait China Luxembourg Andorra Fastest developing countries are presently Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Denmark, Benelux and Norway. North America, Japan and China are starting. According to the recent studies only in Germany there are over 12 million people who want to try out Nordic Walking.

   News and Press Releases, INWA (10 December 2005)
   Original source: news.inwa.verkkopolku.com/.

   Popularity of Nordic Walking has increased in Finland. The number of Finnish people Nordic Walking at least once a week has increased up to 760 000. In year 2003 the number was 560 000.

5. Finns' fitness craze takes pole position:
   Nordic walking may raise laughs, but it sheds calories without tears
   Jamie Doward, The Observer | UK News (13.03.05)
6. Finnfacts - English - Innovations and Industry - Health and Wellness
   Publiched 2004, Finnfacts 2006. No longer online. Accessed again via Internet Archive.

   [...] Besides Finland, Nordic walking is popular in Sweden, Norway, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. “New countries include Australia, Japan, France, Italy, the Benelux countries, Iceland and Denmark. Interest is great, and people are attracted by its ease, effectiveness, its social nature and the possibility of doing it all the year round,” [says Aki Karihtala, senior vice president of EXEL, which holds a 70 per cent share of the world market in Nordic walking poles]. One of the most important reasons for the success is that we don’t offer only the products but the whole concept with the educational programs. We need to teach and show people, what the right technique is, what you can do with the poles to get the maximum efforts and how to build exercise programs. We should also not forget that from our target group most of the people are in not that good physical condition and therefore we need to make sure very carefully that everything goes well. Heart rate monitoring during the exercises has an important role as well when we think about people, who are not that used to “listen” to their bodies during the exercises [...]

   See: Gymstick™ Nordic Walking
   Instructor Manual, www.gymstick-fitness.com Accessed 15 February 2012.

   In Finland, “the mother country” of Nordic Walking, there are more than 800.000 active Nordic Walkers. Furthermore, the statistics show that the percentage of men going out for Nordic Walking is growing strongly in Finland.

   Internationally it appears that over 8 million people are at least once a week active with Nordic Walking. This number is still growing as result of expansion of member countries promoting Nordic Walking. In the beginning Nordic Walking was shun because of the unusual performance, but it has spread gradually to a generally accepted and popular for of physical exercise in the whole country, in all age groups. Most of the enthusiasts in the beginning were women but today the number of male Nordic Walkers is increasing proportionally more. Besides Finland, Nordic Walking is also very popular in countries like Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Austria, Germany and Benelux.

   Also in former Yugoslavia, UK, Japan, Australia and America there is a lot of Nordic Walking promotion to be seen allover. [...]

7. New German Fitness Trend Makes Strides
   Jennifer Abramsohn, DW-WORLD

   Nordic Walking is booming in Germany. But while outsiders may criticize "those people with the poles" as silly looking fadists, they may soon start to wonder: Why are there so many of them? [...]

8. Nordic Walking Presentation by Mrs. Sirpa Arvonen
   Sirpa Arvonen MBA, Information Manager and Health Exercise Instructor,
   Suomen Latu, Helsinki, Finland
   (Word doc; Not dated)
   

   NOTE: The Arvonen presentation in English, from which the excerpt at left was drawn, is no longer available online. See instead: Calculating your correct pole size nordicwalking.co.uk To calculate the correct pole size, multiply your height (in centimetres) by 0.68, and then round up or down to the nearest 5cm. Use the online calculator For example: If your height is 168 cm (5'6") x 0.68 = 114cm, then choose 115cm poles. Exel, Komperdell and SWIX pole sizing charts - right column. Pole Length Re-Visited - More Food For Thought! David Downer, Nordic Walking News (17.11.05) The angle of your forearm in relation to your upper arm should be about 90º — some use 95º, or 100º. In practice, you may prefer to alter your pole length, depending on your terrain and activity. In my experience, adjustable poles are the way to go.

   The length of the pole
   The significance of the poles has been great already in the development of Nordic walking, because the goals, expected benefits and comfort of the sport set certain requirements for the pole. Nordic walking is typically endurance exercise and the walks take a long time, which means that an uncomfortable pole and a deficient technique in using the pole can cause stress injuries and decrease the comfort of the sport in the long run.

   The right length of the Nordic walking pole related with the person's height is an important part of the comfort and safety of Nordic walking and it has a role in finding the effectiveness of Nordic walking. A pole of the correct length can be pushed behind the body and thus the muscles of arms, shoulders and upper back can be included in the pole push. Choosing the pole length one should consider the person's height, the length of the limbs and how much practice the person has in Nordic walking. The right pole length for the walker can be measured by pressing the arm to the side, bent at an angle of 90 degrees, when the grip of the hand on the pole is relaxed. A person with more experience in Nordic walking or skiing and with more muscular strength can choose a little longer pole.

   THE LENGTH OF THE POLE = O.72 x the height of the person

9. Walking is Good for Your Health - Nordic Walking may be even Better
   Kaj E. Rekola, PhD, MD (2007)

   Many models of walking poles are available, some with adjustable pole length (telescopic). Others come in different lengths, (one recommendation is pole length = .7 user height). They also come with different wrist strap designs and with specially designed detachable rubber tip caps ("asphalt paws"). The prices range from $60 to $100 dollars. The advantage of telescopic poles is that they are adjustable, especially when used as hiking poles (longer poles downhill, shorter uphill). However, when used for vigorous walking for exercise, the telescopic locking mechanism may fail and cause injuries if the mechanism fails under load and the pole unexpectedly gives way. For exercise, non-telescopic poles, made of composite fiber or other lightweight materials, are recommended.