{"id":1094,"date":"2022-01-28T17:50:54","date_gmt":"2022-01-28T21:50:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.activeagingcanada.ca\/blog\/?p=1094"},"modified":"2022-01-28T17:50:54","modified_gmt":"2022-01-28T21:50:54","slug":"boost-your-fitness-using-walking-poles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.activeagingcanada.ca\/blog\/active-living\/boost-your-fitness-using-walking-poles\/","title":{"rendered":"Boost your fitness using walking poles"},"content":{"rendered":"

Walking poles are designed to be used like cross-country ski poles. With each stride, you hold the pole at about a 45-degree angle and plant it to the side and slightly behind your foot. That helps to propel you forward as you push off.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Because of this cross-country skiing technique, walking with poles is often referred to as Nordic walking. Another common term is urban poling.<\/p>\n

When walking with poles, your arms, upper body and core muscles are more engaged. That includes your abdominal, pelvic, and back muscles. When people use walking poles, they burn off 20% to 46% more calories. They use about 90% of the body\u2019s muscles.<\/p>\n

Using walking poles regularly can build muscle strength and improve posture and balance. This improves your gait and reduces the risk of falls.<\/p>\n

Another benefit of walking poles is that they reduce stress on hips, knees, and ankles. They also add stability when you\u2019re out walking on your favourite trails or routes, making it easier to go up and down hills.<\/p>\n

Why walking is great for older adults<\/h2>\n

For most people, walking (with or without poles) is a safe activity helps strengthen bones and maintain healthy joints. Other health benefits may include:<\/p>\n