by Michele Cheplic

It’s the latest fitness trend and it doesn’t require a lot of expensive equipment or coordination. Nordic walking is consider the “it” exercise for 2009, according to fitness experts.
The simple sport originated in Finland and spread throughout Europe. It is especially popular in Sweden, Norway, Germany, and now people in North America are embracing the trend that includes a couple of poles and desire to burn calories.

These days Nordic walking is growing in popularity in places such as California, Vermont, Colorado, Arizona, Maryland and Florida
where health clubs offer introductory classes. Fitness experts say the pole walking exercises cater to people with joint injuries and seniors, who find that Nordic walking poles provide more support when walking.

In regards to the amount of calories you stand to lose while Nordic walking, researchers have found that a 150-pound person can burn more than 40 percent more calories when Nordic walking compared to walking without poles. Meaning an individual who might burn around 350 calories walking for an hour, could burn up to 500 calories using the Nordic walking technique. Nordic walking also allows you to burn more calories in less time. For example, you could burn the same amount of calories walking for 40 minutes without poles versus walking 25 minutes using the Nordic walking technique.

To get started with your Nordic walking regime all you need are a pair of poles and comfortable walking shoes. The key to mastering the Nordic walking technique is getting poles that accommodate your height. Fitness experts recommend the following pole sizes based your height.

If you are:

Less than 5′1″, use poles that are 105 cm
Less than 5′4″, use poles that are 110 cm
5′4″ to 5′7″, use poles that are 115 cm
5′7″ to 5′10″, use poles that are 120 cm
Over 5′10, use poles that are 125 cm
Over 6′2″ use poles 130 cm
Over 6′4″, use poles that are 135 cm

Poles can be purchased at a local sporting goods stores nationwide.

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