Embracing Autumn in the Brecks
Our quick guide for enjoying autumn to the fullest in the Norfolk and Suffolk Brecks. More
The temperature was a pleasant 18 degrees, West Stow Country Park was the venue, and the Nordic Walking poles were waiting. Katharine Green from Nordic Walking East Anglia was ready to show the participants how to use the poles correctly and embark on an introductory walk using the British Nordic Walking technique.
The group learned that Nordic Walking originated in Finland, is based entirely on the body’s natural walking pattern and is a fantastic way of turning the act of walking into a full body exercise. The hand-held poles are used to propel you forward relying on core muscles, the upper body and legs. When done correctly, Nordic Walking uses 90% of the major muscles. It can be as cardiovascular as running and much like using a cross-trainer in the gym! And gosh, did we feel that workout!
The great thing everyone agreed on though was the activity is ideal for just about anyone, the technique can be adapted to suit fitness levels, age and gender and everyone in the group found a way to make it work for them. And the best part – this exercise isn’t in the artificial light of a gym, but in the great Brecks outdoors with fresh air and nature!
FACT: Various studies estimate that Nordic Walking burns anywhere from 18% to 67% more calories than traditional walking. This can be up to 400 calories an hour!
