Nordic walking evolved from an off-season ski-training activity known as ski walking, hill bounding or ski striding to become a way of exercising year-round. Ski walking and hill bounding with poles has been practiced for decades as dry land training for competitive Nordic skiers. Nordic Walking first became widely popularized in Europe, starting in Finland where it was known as sauvakävely (pole walking)
In the 1980s, clinical studies correlated the use of trekking poles with fitness levels. Subsequent studies in the 1990s demonstrated that this simple, efficient exercise increased cardiovascular activity, significantly enhanced muscular and aerobic fitness, and improved overall vitality.
Specialized Nordic Walking poles have comfortable straps, removable rubber tips for pavement, hardened steel tips for use on trails, the beach, snow.
Different companies have different designs of straps and poles, some poles are adjustable whilst others are fixed length. Some are even designed specifically for fitting in a suitcase on a plane !
A qualified instructor will help you with the correct sizing of pole and can give you appropriate advice when it comes to purchasing poles. As the Scottish Nordic Walking Association is independent and not affiliated to any pole company or supplier you can be sure the advice and guidance your receive is totally impartial.