What is Nordic walking and how does it turn your body into a ‘calorie-burning machine'?

Time of India

18-06-2025

Image credits: Getty Images
If you think the Nordic region is only famous for its white snow-capped landscapes, think again! Now, rather than focusing on Nordic beauty you need to focus on Nordic walking, as according to studies, it can turn the human body into a 'calorie-burning machine'
What is Nordic walking?
Image credits: Getty Images
Originally developed in the 1960s as a summer training exercise for cross-country skiers in Finland, Nordic walking makes use of specially designed poles with glove-like straps to propel the body forward with each step.
The technique was formalised as a fitness activity for the general public by Leena Jääskeläinen in 1966 who introduced it in physical education. It recruits the arms, shoulder, chest and core while reducing strain on the joints.
Nordic walking is a calorie-burning exercise?
Image credits: Getty Images
According to studies, Nordic walking has up to 67% more calories than a normal walk and engages almost every major muscle group.
A
study
led by the University of Verona asked 38 participants to engage in Nordic walking for six months.
The participants were in their mid-50s and mid-70s and their BMIS ranged within 27-38 (overweight and obese) ranges.
Within six months, the Nordic walking and normal walking groups both saw a decrease in BMI, but where the Nordic walking group's BMI decreased by 6%, the normal walking group's decreased by 4%.
Similarly, the weight circumference of the Nordic walkers was reduced by 8% and the normal walkers was reduced by 4%.
Additionally, the Nordic walking group's total body fat was reduced by 8%, android fat was reduced by 14% and leg fat was reduced by 9%.
According to Trond Nyland, CEO of Fynd and a functional fitness expert, 'It goes from a simple walk into a comprehensive workout that engages 80% to 90% of your muscles while feeling easier than traditional exercise. Whether you're 8 or 80, a complete beginner or experienced athlete, Nordic walking removes every barrier while delivering exceptional results that scale with your abilities.'
It turns the entire body into a calorie-burning machine as it engages the upper body completely, and involves the arms and feet while taking the pressure off the knees, ankles and hips.
Not only calorie burning, studies have also linked the walking technique to lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as reduced levels of anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
'It's a complete wellness solution disguised as a simple walk,' said Nyland.
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