I found this study in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science that "analyzed the effects of Nordic walking and walking on spatiotemporal parameters and ground reaction force, so that it would be possible to suggest an efficient means of walking for people who walk for health." The researchers used a motion analysis system to compare a group of Nordic walkers with a group of regular walkers. The elements of walking studied were:
Gait
- Steps per minute
- Step time and length (step = starts when one foot is on the ground and ends when the other foot lands on the ground)
- Stride time and length (stride = when the foot leaves the ground and ends when the same foot lands on the ground)
- Ground reaction force (how much force you apply to the ground when you walk)
The Nordic walkers had higher steps per minute and longer step and stride length. They also had shorter step and stride times. That means Nordic walkers tended to walk faster and take longer steps.
The Nordic walkers also experienced greater force in stepping off and landing because of the stronger push-off but also experienced better load distribution because of using the poles.
