The faint rays of sunshine have tempted me to dust off my Nordic walking poles and step outside to enjoy this lovely fresh spring air. Nordic walking is just like regular walking – only better! You walk using poles for a gentle downward resistance against the ground, which gives the most fantastic upper body workout, firming both arm and leg muscles as you go. Not to be confused with trekking poles or ski sticks, the Nordic kind actually help propel the body along, allowing you to effortlessly move faster. The result is a full-body workout that swiftly burns calories – without total exhaustion. I'm such a fan that I now have two pairs of poles – one standard set for home and a folding pair which I got for Christmas to go with me on my travels. Both sets have removable rubber 'paws' for urban pavement-pounding and metal spikes for countryside hikes as well as the special 'glove' fitting that gives necessary grip and hand support.
Enthusiasts claim Nordic walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in the world – and I can understand why as it can be done by almost anyone, it's highly effective, affordable and fun. I love the way it strengthens and tones both upper and lower body together. It's actually good all over, using 90% of our skeletal muscles while burning 40% more calories than regular walking. As someone who's had back, neck and shoulder problems (mostly from hunching over a laptop and months of breastfeeding) I've found it an excellent way to open-out the upper chest area and reduce shoulder tension. Recent research reveals an array of other health benefits, from increased mobility for the elderly to boosting bone density (so helping prevent osteoporosis) and even improved shoulder function following breast cancer treatment. Finnish researchers – possibly more obsessed with Nordic walking than anyone – say our metabolism increases by up to 25% compared to walking without poles and cite similar metabolic benefits to jogging but without stressing the knees. Above all, it can be a wonderfully social activity. Nordic walking with friends, family or with fellow enthusiasts means you can chat as you go, combining nature and the great outdoors in a sociable way for a real mood-booster. More information, including details of teachers and local walking groups can be found at www.nordicwalking.co.uk and www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk.
Spending more time on my feet has also made me more aware of my shoes. You don't need specialist footwear for Nordic walking (a flat shoe with plenty of flexibility so feet can move is all that's required) but I've learnt the importance of arch supports to help prevent Plantar fasciitis, the commonest kind of heel pain. I love to go barefoot at home, but I'm finding it better to wear shoes (or slippers) with proper support and keep bare feet for the beach. Croc-Clogs (with slingback straps) are not the most beauteous design but useful for padding about the house (useful support for children's growing feet too). I've also been impressed with the practical but pretty designs from Clarks, Ecco and Birkenstock (especially their Classic and Tatami collections). Feet also benefit from daily massage and this is one podiatry prescription that's a simple pleasure to fulfil. Needless to say, a tube of our deliciously fresh-scented Foot Repair Moisturiser sits on my bedside table and a few minutes of foot massage to release muscle tension, stimulate reflex zones as well as smooth and soften the skin make a wonderful foot-rewarding ritual to end the day.
Best wishes
