Active Aging

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2024 | Active Aging Week 11 Growing older Growing stronger Community Health Fair Tuesday, October 1 9:00 am - 1:00 pm (204) 488-8023 1390 Taylor Avenue Free Admission or those who believe there could be nothing more invigorating than a brisk fitness walk, there is an emerging exercise trend that could be a real game-changer. Inspired by the training regimen of cross-country skiers, Nordic pole walking is growing in popularity as a fitness activity, because it's easy to learn, and provides a great workout, even for beginners. "Nordic walking has always been popular in Europe where it was started by cross-country skiers in their efforts to stay fit over the summer," says Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba. "Adding poles to your walk increases your energy expenditure by about 40 per cent and helps improve upper body strength and posture. Abdominal and back muscles are more engaged as compared to walking without poles." Brown says the technique is not the same as merely walking or hiking with poles. It involves walking normally, swinging your arms at your sides and literally dragging the poles along behind you, using them to provide support and maintain balance on literally any type of surface. With proper form, the activity exercises the muscles in both the upper and lower halves of the body, burning more calories and resulting in a more complete full-body workout than traditional walking. Adding poles to your walking workout might seem like it would require more rigorous effort, but it actually is easier on the joints than regular walking or jogging, with the poles helping to take weight pressure off your hips and knees. The poles, usually made of lightweight materials, have an ergonomic design that makes them comfortable and easier to manage than the straps on regular ski or hiking poles. Brown says Nordic pole walking can also help reduce your blood pressure, manage blood sugar levels, increase good cholesterol, and contribute to quality sleep, while strengthening and toning upper and lower muscles. It can also relieve upper back, shoulder and neck pain, while also contributing to weight control and disease prevention. Pole walking offers another exercise option for older adults to consider in maintaining an active lifestyle. Health Canada recommends regular physical activity as a means of reducing your risk of more than 25 chronic conditions, including type two diabetes, and some cancers. Moreover, research shows that as much as half of functional decline between the ages of 30 and 70 is not the result of aging, but due to the cumulative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. "Nordic pole walking is also a great alternative for people concerned about their balance," says Brown. "Having the two poles in hand does increase confidence for anyone feeling a little unsure on their feet." She notes that walking poles – which generally cost $30 and up – are available at many local and online retail and sporting goods stores, as well as through an organization called Urban Poling (urbanpoling.com). The latter is a Canadian company established by a physiotherapist who successfully used the walking poles in her treatment sessions and thought others could benefit from greater accessibility to the equipment. In addition to product information, the company's website features lots of information about the proper use of equipment, along with current research into the health benefits derived from this unique form of exercise. AAIM also offers an instructional video on its website so you can learn proper Nordic pole walking technique to make the most of your exercise efforts. For those who prefer to learn in person, the organization also offers free workshops for community groups and organizations where participants can learn more about the Nordic pole walking experience, its proper technique and health benefits. Brown says her organization will be hosting a workshop on Oct. 8 at the Wellness Institute adjacent to Seven Oaks Hospital. This session is aimed at individual would-be Nordic pole walkers of all ages, but any interested community groups can contact AAIM to arrange for group sessions. F EXPLORING THE ART OF NORDIC POLE WALKING Nordic pole walking is a safe way to walk - and to exercise the upper body - at the same time.

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