Nordic Walking News

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My thanks to my fellow UK instructor Heathley Clarke for this article. Heathley's company www.Nordic-fitness.co.uk specialises in providing instruction, coaching and guidance in all Nordic Fitness sports including Nordic Walking & Nordic Inline Skating (Nordic Blading)... David (Editor).
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This article is the first in a series based around the Nordic Fitness concept, the first of which focuses on Nordic Inline Skating, or Nordic Blading, a complement to Nordic Walking.

The Nordic Fitness Concept

You may have heard about it. You may have seen it. Sometimes it’s termed ‘Nordic Blading’. It’s a recent introduction to the ‘Nordic Fitness concept. Nordic Inline Skating is the combination of using the cross-country skiing 'Skating' technique together with Inline Skates or Rollerblades.

Nordic Inline Skating is evolving as a fitness activity in its own right, and is an ideal compliment or extension to the more energetic Nordic Walker! The goal is on providing an all-body workout, with an emphasis on bio-mechanics and achieving a good sense of well-being.

Nordic Inline Skating features as part of the Nordic Fitness family of sports exercises that is very successful on mainland Europe, and has been pioneered in the UK since Summer 2004.

Adaptability – your choice!

Existing Inline Skaters/Rollerbladers, Nordic Walkers or people completely new to Skating or Skiing are able to pick up the basics of Nordic Inline Skating within a matter of hours. The attractions for most people are the added fun and safety elements that Inline Skates provide:

• Manoeuvrability and flexibility in performing ‘Alpine’ style slalom turns;
• Safe stopping using the heel brake, applying a ‘Spin Stop’, or performing a ‘U-turn’;
• Use of wheels to simulate ‘edging’ for tight turning;
• Immediate responsiveness to foot pressure and weight transfer;
• Opportunity to practice ‘Classic’ skiing;
• ‘Stepover’ turning and tricks; and
• Achieving high speeds on downhills – if that’s your goal!

The Principles

The principles of Nordic Inline Skating are similar to that of Nordic Walking – you use poles as a means to provide upper body exercise – with the obvious difference that your legs do not operate in a ‘diagonal stride’ and that momentum is much faster. The poles are longer than those used for Nordic Walking. For Nordic Inline Skating, poles that reach to one’s chin are perfect to aid upper body power transmission.

Of course, when using Inline Skates you have a choice as to whether you employ the poles, or simply enjoy Skating without them.

Technique Overview

The techniques used for Nordic Inline Skating are (Cross-Country Skiing equivalent):

• 1-2 (or Skate 3) – which is the most used technique;
• 1-1 (or Skate 2); and
• 1-2 Asymmetrical (or Skate 1) – although arm positioning is different to Skate 1, hence the term ‘Asymmetrical’.

However, complementing the techniques, there is a major emphasis on body position and actions, in particular maintaining an upright head and torso, gripping and letting go of the poles, active footwork, and overall range of arm and leg movements. This where Nordic Inline Skating is appealing to fitness-minded people, who are seeking all-body workouts that are not necessarily at aggressive or racing pace, and that complement other Nordic activities such as Nordic Walking.

Equipment (Skates and Poles)

The equipment used for Nordic Inline Skating is evolving. Good recreational or fitness Inline Skates/Rollerblades will suffice, although a couple of manufacturers have developed special Skates. Due to the speeds attainable, and to aid confidence, Helmet (bicycle helmet is suitable), Knee and Elbow pads should be worn at all times.

Exel of Finland have introduced a range of special poles for Nordic Inline Skating that use a spiketip pad. The pad provides very effective shock absorption, whilst the small spike provides a good plant; the combination is extremely effective.

Enjoy Nordic Inline Skating

The popularity of Nordic Inline Skating is set to increase exponentially over the coming years. The combination of using Inline Skates to practice the Skating style of cross-country skiing, and to simulate some Alpine skiing techniques, is quite unique, providing the enthusiast with an all-year activity (training for Winter or otherwise).

Nordic Inline Skating can take place anywhere where there is suitable tarmac. In the UK there are several venues used in and around London and the South where conditions are ideal. Why not give it a try?

Heathley Clarke
www.nordic-fitness.co.uk

Editor Note: Nordic Inline Skating (Nordic Blading) is not restricted to the UK. Check out with the relevent Nordic Walking associations in your country or do an online search to find out more.