Nordic Walking Poles and equipment

All you really need to get started are Nordic Walking Poles which are available to use, free of charge in all of my classes. Nordic walking poles are not to be confused with trekking poles as they have a number of specific differences which enable the Nordic Walking technique to be undertaken properly. Trekking poles cannot be used for Nordic Walking.

The general features of Nordic Walking poles:

• specially designed straps, which are left and right hand specific, with ergonomically shaped handles to support the technique.
• need to be correct for an individual's height, typically your height in cm X 0.68 and then rounded down to the nearest 5 cm's.
• removable rubber ‘paw’ (angled at 45 degrees) which covers the tip of the pole for walking on hard surfaces.

Good quality Nordic Walking poles will have an element of carbon and can cost anything from £45 to £150 for a pair. If you are looking to buy your own poles I have a range of best selling Nordic Walking poles for you to try in my classes.

Footwear

You don't need specialist footwear for Nordic Walking but ideally you need flexible soled shoes that are waterproof and breathable. If walking in snow it is advisable to wear snow shoes.

Clothing

Layered and breathable fabrics are recommended along with water proofs in case of wet weather. A small and slim rucksac is also ideal, so that your arms are free to swing from the shoulder - supporting good Nordic Walking technique.

Other

As with all exercise it is advisable to bring a drink. Sun screen and hats in hot weather are also important.