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Nordic walking
sauvakävely
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: Finland · Tradition: Nordic walking exercise · Movement
What it is
Walking that also uses the arms, with dedicated poles. Energy use is often higher than in ordinary walking, and it is done in the hope of spreading load away from the knees and low back.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- Learn pole length and technique (pushing backward) in an introduction.
- Keep the posture upright, with a comfortable stride.
- Do not injure the wrists with the straps.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Tiredness
- Low back pain
- Knee pain
- Posture
- Blood pressure (general mention)
Related symptom videos
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
B: Randomised trials or systematic reviews exist, but reports are modest, the group studied is limited, or study quality is limited
As a form of aerobic walking there is research on cardiometabolism and function. Whether it is better than ordinary walking depends on the conditions. It can be a way of putting WHO physical-activity advice into practice.
Sources
Safety notes
Falls, and overuse of the shoulder or elbow. Road safety.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- An acute flare of heart disease
- Untreated, severe balance problems when there is no assistance