Urban poling, alternatively known by its’ generic name “Nordic Walking, ”is an activity that has been popular in Scandinavia and other parts of Europe for years. Initially developed as a method of off-season training for skiers, it rapidly gained popularity among people of all ages and fitness levels including pre-school children and seniors, and for good reason!
It takes the simple activity of walking and incorporates the use of poles to assist in propelling your body forward, making it a great total body exercise for just about anyone. In fact, evidence-based research supporting the clinical rehabilitation potential of Urban Poling in treatment of:
In addition to this activity’s benefits in assisting with the general recovery process and effective management of many chronic conditions, its potential to promote an active lifestyle throughout the lifespan is priceless.
As I approach my own senior years, I find myself cultivating an even deeper appreciation for the concerns conveyed to me by many of my clients, regarding the perception or stigma that can often be associated with the use of canes, crutches and walkers. Despite the obvious benefits these walking aides can provide in the form of safety and maintaining independence, their use can unfortunately initiate a transition or a milestone with the potential to have a negative effect on a person’s self-worth. An effect that is highly variable among individuals and can perhaps never be fully understood unless you experience it for yourself.
Though certainly not appropriate in all circumstances, the use of walking poles can be an opportunity to bridge this transition in a way that helps represent ability versus disability. It can motivate toward exercise despite the limitations one may have with their chronic condition, while at the same time addressing:
Elizabeth Stefanyshyn-Alonso, Physiotherapist
Reference: Urban Poling – Activator course for rehab professionals
https://urbanpoling.com/old/programs-events/community-programs/professional-training/urban-poling-activator-course-for-rehab-and-wellness-professionals/
It takes the simple activity of walking and incorporates the use of poles to assist in propelling your body forward, making it a great total body exercise for just about anyone. In fact, evidence-based research supporting the clinical rehabilitation potential of Urban Poling in treatment of:
- Post hip and knee surgery
- Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury
- Spinal conditions
- Return to work, Soft Tissue Injuries, Sports Injuries
- Older Adults
- Respiratory Conditions
- Cancer Rehab
- Cardiac Rehab
- Mental Health and
- Fall Prevention,
In addition to this activity’s benefits in assisting with the general recovery process and effective management of many chronic conditions, its potential to promote an active lifestyle throughout the lifespan is priceless.
As I approach my own senior years, I find myself cultivating an even deeper appreciation for the concerns conveyed to me by many of my clients, regarding the perception or stigma that can often be associated with the use of canes, crutches and walkers. Despite the obvious benefits these walking aides can provide in the form of safety and maintaining independence, their use can unfortunately initiate a transition or a milestone with the potential to have a negative effect on a person’s self-worth. An effect that is highly variable among individuals and can perhaps never be fully understood unless you experience it for yourself.
Though certainly not appropriate in all circumstances, the use of walking poles can be an opportunity to bridge this transition in a way that helps represent ability versus disability. It can motivate toward exercise despite the limitations one may have with their chronic condition, while at the same time addressing:
- Core strength
- Upper body strength
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Increased walking tolerance with motivation to walk further, faster and more frequently
- Stability and balance
- Improved postural alignment
- Factors related to fall prevention
- Decreased pain
- Weight management goals
- Psychological benefits
- Reduced impact on knee joints
- Increased potential for back country trekking
Elizabeth Stefanyshyn-Alonso, Physiotherapist
Reference: Urban Poling – Activator course for rehab professionals
https://urbanpoling.com/old/programs-events/community-programs/professional-training/urban-poling-activator-course-for-rehab-and-wellness-professionals/
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