Nordic walking, also called ‘urban poling’, is becoming an increasingly popular form of physical activity for those who wish to pound the pavement without putting strain on the body.
For Celia Gjordsund and Yvette Cleveau, both physiotherapists at Cochrane’s Sunshine Physiotherapy and Sport Rehabilitation Clinic, it’s a great way to whip Cochranites of all ages into shape.
“The idea is to get lots of people doing this — I want to get council doing it,” laughed Gjordsund. “You know how book clubs have blown up? We want walking clubs to blow up (in popularity).”
The ladies are spreading the word about urban poling by launching a six-week urban poling class at the Spray Lake Sawmills (SLS) Family Sports Centre walking track Jan.9-Feb. 20.
Using specially designed poles, urban polers can practice this form of fitness walking both indoors and outdoors, reaping the benefits of using 90 per cent of the body’s muscles and burning anywhere from 20-46 per cent more calories than regular fitness walking.
New to the sport, Gjordsund said the fitness activity is growing in popularity among physiotherapists.
It was occupational therapist Mandy Shintani who developed and trademarked Urban Poles, combining the technique of the low-impact activity with the specially-designed poles — which include an ergonomic, strapless handle and a boot-like tip.
Gjordsund said the Urban Poles are more comfortable to use than regular ski poles and the special design has its users practicing a light grip, which alleviates stress on the body.
According to the company’s website, when used properly — which includes keeping arms straight, maintaining a light grip on the poles and firmly planting the poles on the ground — the fitness activity is ideal for improving posture and balance, as well as increasing weight loss and improving cardiovascular health.
Learn more at urbanpoling.com; Urban Poles can be purchased at Sunshine Physiotherapy and run around $100.
To register for the urban poling class at the SLS Centre, call Sunshine Physiotherapy at 403-981-1991.
