The Nordic Walking Technique

The technique is a simple enhancement of normal arm swing when walking. The poles remain behind, pointing diagonally backwards at all times. Keeping the arms relaxed and keeping the poles behind the body are key elements in the proper technique.

1. Shoulders are relaxed and down, elbows are held close to the body, and arms are straight but relaxed.
2. The hands are opened slightly to allow the poles to swing forward – the poles are not gripped tightly, but swing from the wrist straps.
3. The leading foot strikes the ground as the opposite arm swings forward to waist height; the opposite pole strikes the ground level with the heel of the opposite foot.
4. The poles always remain pointing diagonally backwards.
5. Push the pole as far back as possible, the arm straightening to form a continuous line with the fully extended arm, the hand opening off the grip by the end of the arm swing.
6. The foot rolls through the step to push off with the toe. This lengthens the stride behind the body, getting the most out of each stride.