The easies way to lose weight and to feel great

Walking has always been the easiest way to stay active and keep in shape, but now the latest fitness crazes have turned walking into a workout that will rival your gum routine.

The new Nordic walking system
Maybe a few of you have heard about “Nordic walking”. It comes from Finland where it has completely transformed the nation’s health. The “Nordic walking” system uses specially designed poles to help you work your upper body while you are walking. It uses around 85% of the body’s skeletal muscles, burns more calories than normal walking.

Many people who are practising it say that it feels much bouncier than normal walking and doesn’t seem like such a hard work, even though it’s a tough workout.The only kits that you need are the specific Nordic walking poles and a pair of good trainers, suitable for walking and that’s it – once you have your poles you are ready to go.

Remember:

• Try to walk naturally but with your legs slightly wider apart that from the heel to the ball of your foot.
• As you push off from each foot, push off from the pole in the opposite hand.
• Don’t try to make the poles work too hard at first. Keep your shoulders relaxed and try to lean slightly forwards.
• Keep the poles close to your body.

Conscious walking
Like yoga and Pilates, the conscious walking can boost your body awareness and your mind-body connection. It is a mind-body workout that uses a focused approach to the everyday activity of walking.
Concentrating on the quality of your movements, can also improve your posture and the way you walk. By focusing your attention on the act of walking you will be able to relax, de-stress and clear your mind.
There is no special walking technique. You can simply walk naturally but try and focus on your body and notice how your body moves and responds to the activity of walking.
Don’t try to correct the way you walk, just focus your mind so you get the best possible movement and alignment from your body.You can do it anywhere you would normally go for a walk, no matter how much time you have.

Power walking
The power walking system is the most common way of walking. It uses long strides and vigorous arm movement to walk at fast speeds.
The best thing about it is that the only kit you need is a pair of good trainers.

Remember:

• Try to keep your head up and look forward not at the ground. Hold your chest up and relax your shoulders.
• Walk as though your leg starts at the waist and extend your leg from the hips. Use your arms to get better movement, gain more speed and save energy.
• Keep your elbows at 90 degree and at your side only bring your hands as fast as your chest and move your arms like a pendulum.

We recommend you always to use a good pair of trainers. Nowadays there are many specialized walking shoes which are constructed entirely differently from running trainers. Also remember that it is essential to walk at least 30 minutes a day. Walking is the best and the easiest way to stay active and to keep your body healthy and good looking.