Exerstrider Nordic Pole Walking

By Scott Denny, PhD 

I see many patients in my practice who do not exercise at all. They all have many reasons or excuses as to why they “cannot” exercise; I’m too busy, I’m too tired, and even, I’m too fat! 

In addition to recommending specific stretching exercises and lifestyle modification, I will often recommend walking to patients as a simple way to get their heart rate up a bit and to move those tired muscles and joints.  

Having used walking as a method of exercise for myself, I became intrigued with a technique called Nordic walking. Nordic walking has several other names including pole walking and ski walking. The technique was originally developed by a cross-country skier, certified ski coach, and marathon runner, Tom Rutlin back in 1985. Since that time millions of people have began to use Nordic walking as a form of total body exercise.

Mr. Rutlin coined the term Exerstriding. Exerstriding is a total body exercise technique, but you do not feel like you are exerting yourself anymore than if you were just performing regular walking. Best of all, it removes the stress on the joints of the lower extremities which will allow individuals with hip, knee or ankle pain to enjoy the benefits of walking, all while exercising their upper body simultaneously.   

Here is a list of the many health benefits: 

• Strengthen abdominal, back, arm, shoulder, chest, leg and all “core” muscles (without separate weight or resistance training!)
• Burn 25-50% (and up to 70%!) more calories with each step
• Improve both “cardio” and vascular fitness
• Increase overall stamina and muscle endurance
• Improve lymph system function and boost your immune system
• Reduce pain and injury-causing stress on hips, knees and feet
• Help maintain overall bone density
• Maintain joint health and range of motion
• Improve both your posture and balance
• Enhance both your energy and mood
• Experience a truly fun and convenient “good use” total body exercise  

You can enjoy all these health benefits while you are actually having fun! There are several models of walking poles to choose from as you will see once you click on this link. There is also a model that is designed for individuals with limited hand strength called the Activator model. Concerned about your balance? No problem, simply add the bell shaped rubber balance tips and you are ready to go! I personally use the OS2 Fitness Trekker. As part of any pole package you will also receive an educational video and book, and of course, please feel free to contact our office if you should have any questions.

* Please click here for research studies on Nordic walking.  

*You should not begin an exercise regimen with consulting with your healthcare provider first!  

Click on the image below to see how Exerstriding affects the mucles of the upper body

 

Click on the microphone to hear Tom Rutlin speak about this amazing breakthrough in exercise

Want to purchase an Exerstrider? Then click here!