That can get annoying and hopefully doesn’t make you face plant if it slips out while doing Nordics. Additionally, Nordic walking poles usually come with rubber and steel tips. The rubber sits on top of the steel tips and is ideal for flat surfaces like asphalt. These tips can be removed to reveal pointy steel tips, which are useful for uneven terrains, such as hiking trails or grass. Carbon is lighter and stiffer than aluminum, and in Nordic Walking, this is good as you want less vibration on your push.

Also around the same time, a man named Mauri Repo started promoting using ski poles to walk as a way to train for cross country skiing all year round.Arthritis is defined as acute or chronic inflammation in or around a joint. While there’s no cure for arthritis, exercise may help reduce pain symptoms ( 19, 20).

If you are new to Nordic walking in general, you might prefer the straps to give you something to secure your hand in place and offer an extra source of stability. On the other hand, if you think straps will get in your way and you’d rather have your hands free, simply opt for the strapless option. Fixed Length or Adjustable Poles? These findings are exciting, Reed added, because something as simple and accessible as walking with poles measures up to conventional exercises like HIIT and MICT. It can help anyone can boost their heart healthTo get the most out of your exercise, you’ll want to make sure you’re walking with proper technique. Here’s how to do it:

Finally, a study in 135 people with coronary artery disease found Nordic walking led to greater improvements in functional capacity (the ability to complete functions of life or work) compared with high intensity interval training and moderate-to-vigorous intensity continuous training ( 14). Burns more calories than traditional walking Overall, we think the combination of solid features and accessories makes this set a great value for the price. Two isn’t always better than one, and when one trekking pole is all you want, we recommend this sturdy aluminum pole from A Alafen. Its durable aluminum frame offers stable support to balance footing, leverage to help you up steep steps, or measure the depths of a stream before crossing. This pole’s tungsten steel rod tips help give it great traction, while the rubber tips and basket offer stability and versatility on slippery or soft surfaces.In fact, low intensity and low impact exercise may be just as good of an option for those with arthritis. One study showed that this type of exercise was as effective as high intensity exercise at reducing arthritis pain ( 22). Your arm motion should mirror the level of a handshake - slightly lower than directly extending your arm in front of you. Alternate and swing your arms, and keep your arms straight. The aesthetically-pleasing EVA foam handles resemble cork but are comfortable and sweat-absorbing. The extended foam grip has extra contour and texture, which we found helpful for pulling ourselves up while climbing. The wrist straps are padded and adjust nicely to prevent chafing. They also stay secure, so you won’t accidentally drop a pole while hiking, though they also need occasional retightening.