Nordic Walking
Steps, posture, arms and poles are the “Four Elements” in which the Nordic Walking bases itself.
Classes start with learning the correct walking posture, then the poles are added. These poles must be used while obeying specific axioms, which are taught by an experienced and well-prepared instructor from the Italian Nordic Fitness Association (ANI – www.nordicwalking.it).
This specific technique with the four elements is very distinct from the other uses of the poles. In fact, Nordic Walking is divided into two large branches.
Sauvakevily (or Original Nordic or Finnish): is the early history of Nordic Walking, the use of the poles is with bended arms, like cross-country skiers. This technique has a positive impact on articulations and can lessen potential pre-existing discopathies. The good thing about this technique is that it is very simple to learn and teach (that’s why it is the most common).
Nordic Walking: is the Nordic Walking with the application of correct posture when walking. It’s studied by professionals of the physiotherapeutic and osteopathic fields and the arms must be kept extended. This aspect gives a perfect postural reeducation; it releases muscular contractures of the back and neck, it gives shape to the curves of our body and helps with faster weight-loss without working too hard (it is also called “Bradip Nordic” for its slow and wide moves. But it can also be sped up, making it a tiring activity). Where to practice… Everywhere! From the hills to the mountains, from the city streets to the watersheds.
Imagine what you could find out walking among the hills surrounding Arezzo together with your professional instructor…
To be more specific, the benefits of this activity are the following:
- Helps with posture thanks to the new asset given to walking;
- Burns off fat thanks to the use of 90% of the muscles during walking;
- Unburdens the weight of articulations of the pelvis, knees and ankles (good for people with prosthesis, who suffer from arthritis or arthrosis, and those who are overweight);
- Doesn’t strain the heart (low impact activity);
- Helps lymphatic circulation, improving immune defenses;
- More than any other activity, it stimulates the use of the back part of shoulder blades and the lymph node under the shoulder blades; so it is extremely useful for people who have had a mastectomy with the removal of axillary lymph nodes;
- Improves the position of the foot on the ground and improves blood circulation, reactivating the “heart of the leg”, preventing varicose veins;
- Relaxes and stretches the lumbar, neck and shoulder muscles (problematic areas for sedentary jobs);
- Hydrates intervertebral discs, stopping the potential degeneration of preexisting hernias;
- Reactivates pelvis muscles and decompresses the sciatic nerve, thanks to the pronounced movement of shoulders;
- Allows for the stretching and extension of the pectoralis minor and therefore the decompression of the median nerve, thanks to the opening movement of shoulders;
- In a short time, your body will have a great shape, be more toned and harmonious;
- Improves the conception of oneself and self-esteem;
- Allows for an equilibrium of the imbalance given by asymmetric sports or of strength;
- Restores the natural curve of the spinal column.
