Here’s how you can burn more calories walking
Walking is a great way to get exercise, enjoy nature and relieve stress. But did you know there’s an easy way to make it even better and work out your upper body, too?
It’s called Nordic walking. Nordic walking uses poles in a similar way as cross-country skiing. It’s a whole-body exercise that nearly anyone can do and enjoy all year round and at any level of intensity.
“Because Nordic walking combines simple walking with core and upper body conditioning, it can benefit your health in many ways,” says Dr. Amy Ford, who specializes in sports medicine at Aurora Medical Center in Summit, Wis. “You burn significantly more calories when walking with poles – 20% or even more. It helps to relieve neck and shoulder tension, improve you posture, strengthen your back and tone your core muscles and upper arms.”
Research also shows Nordic walking has a positive impact on mental health, along with physical health. In a study, patients with coronary artery disease did a 12-week Nordic walking program, high-intensity interval training or moderate-to-vigorous intensity continuous training. Scientists reported that all three exercise groups showed similar positive prolonged effects on depression, quality of life and functional capacity (measured with a 6-minute walk test). The results showed Nordic walking was superior for increasing functional capacity.
Nordic walking is common in Europe and is now catching on in the U.S. It works well for a wide range of people – from those who want to begin or up their exercise regimen, to athletes for cross-training. It can be especially ideal for those rehabbing from an injury or have balance issues, as the poles help to stabilize and support the body. Additionally, Nordic walking can be a great social activity through walking clubs which are sometimes offered at local parks and recreation departments.
Dr. Ford offers some tips for Nordic walking success:
- Wear comfortable clothes that let you swing your arms wide.
- Stretch and warm up before your walk, and cool down afterwards.
- Stay hydrated and drink water before and during your walk, especially if you go for more than an hour.
- Before beginning any exercise program, always talk with your doctor to see if it’s right for you.
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About the Author
Mary Arens, health enews contributor, is a senior content specialist at Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. She has 20+ years of experience in communications plus a degree in microbiology. Outside of work, Mary makes healthy happen with hiking, yoga, gardening and walks with her dog, Chester.
Wondering if light hand weights could also work? 2-3 lbs. I’m thinking.
Hand weights put stress on shoulder and elbow joints and can actually start to cause you to slump forward as you walk. If you add weight–a weighted vest is better–it keeps the added weight at the center of your body. However, the risks outweigh the benefits when adding weights to any cardio exercise. I think the poles are better. Keep the weights for toning and strength training. I’ve been a fitness instructor and trainer for many years.
If I’m walking using walking poles, how do I carry my water?
I use a crossbody, insulated water bottle holder.
I’ve used ankle weights, which don’t cause posture problems.
Are there any kind of poles in specific that should be used?
The poles, I see in the illustration they are walking in woodsy, hilly areas. Are the poles more better for this type of walking where hills are or are these poles for regular concrete street walking?
Can you use poles if you’ve just finished rehabbing a broken arm and dislocated shoulder. Also chronic, extremely tight neck muscles and hypofunction in one ear. Thanks.
Where can u get the poles at?
ankle weights can be hard on knees.
Poles can be acquired at sporting goods stores IE Dick’s, REI. You can also get them from Amazon, but be aware of quality, one of mine broke on a hike leading to a fall. Good hiking poles are not cheap. They are great for hilly, woodsy, areas where the trails may be more challenging, and for areas where balance is more of an issue. I love using hiking poles for any long hikes. I feel more stable and its helpful with more challenging trails. They are also great for people with balance problems or those who are a little older.
Talk to your Dr about the rehabbing arm and shoulder. You should get medical clearance.