Nordic walking and regular walking

A comparison of Nordic walking and fast walking yielded some insights about the difference between the two activities. Nordic walking involves the upper body through use of specially designed walking poles to push off. Fast walking doesn't involve the upper body except for stability and arm swing.

Nordic walking improved heart and respiratory rates (heart beats per minute and breaths per minute), leading the researchers to conclude "Nordic Walking might be the preferred form of aerobic exercise over regular fast walking."

This came from the increased intensity generated by involving the upper body in the effort.

(In "Physiological effects of Nordic walking versus regular fast walking on healthy adults: A pilot study" by Henderson RJ; Abendroth N; Gronner K; Laughlin M; Paquette K; York J in Physiotherapy Canada, June 2009)

Nordic walking in relation to MS

I came across an article that suggested benefits of Nordic walking for MS patients. The article listed these benefits:

• Improved stability and balance.
• Enhanced flexibility and strength.
• Elevated mood and well-being.
• New pathways in the brain.
• Reduced spasticity in the foot.

Because Nordic walking engages the whole body in a low impact, customizable intensity exercise, it makes for efficient use of time. That makes Nordic walking "a great way for them to engage most of the muscles of the body in one enjoyable activity" for MS patients.

Research is underway to determine how Nordic walking can increase exercise capacity in MS patients as well. MS patients only have a certain amount of energy, according to the article, so the efficiency of the exercise may be valuable in managing that time budget.

Sunday Songs, Serenades, and Symphonies for Your Walking Pleasure

A charmer from back in the day by Electric Light Orchestra.