How to choose the right equipment for Nordic walking, to understand the manufacturers and materials? How to choose the best value for money. How to learn how to use the calculation formula for the selection of the length of the sticks, taking into account the characteristics and individuals. We read and understand together below.

What is this walking for and what is the use of it?

Nordic walking is considered a universal way to improve the body's health, suitable for any age, gender and level of sports training.

Contributes to the prevention and treatment of multiple diseases. In Germany, this type of physical activity is included in rehabilitation programs carried out after injuries and surgical interventions on the musculoskeletal system.

• osteochondrosis;
• rachiocampsis;
• pulmonary diseases (especially with asthma);
• constant pain in the back, shoulders, neck;
• venous insufficiency;
• Parkinson's disease;
• neurological diseases;
• overweight and obesity.

Types of Scandinavian sticks, pros and cons

With such walking, not only about 90% of all body muscles are actively working, but also sticks, which take the load off the knees, hip joints, shoulder girdle and heel bone.

This sport will be more effective and enjoyable if you choose the right equipment - convenient and safe. How to choose Nordic walking poles? First, we suggest studying the table:

Views	pros	Minuses
telescopic (sliding)	· Can be adjusted to the height of any family member; · Convenient for transportation; · Much cheaper; · By adjusting the length of the poles, you can increase the load.	· Shorter period of use (clamps fail, they can freeze in winter); · May cause injury.
monolithic (fixed length)	· Safe; · Lighter and more convenient to use; · Resilient and springy.	· Expensive (used by professional athletes).
Materials (edit)
carbon (carbon fiber)	· Durable; · light; · Elastic; · Flexible.	· High price category.
aluminum alloys	· Budget models; · lungs.	· Not suitable for people with heavy weight.
composite carbon	· Ideal elasticity with an index of 20-30% (carbon fiber content).	· Unreliable with low carbon fiber content; · Hard - with a high level.

How to choose length / size of Nordic walking poles

It is extremely important to choose the right length of the sticks so as not to harm your health. An incorrect calculation will lead to an increase in the load on the musculoskeletal system, in particular on the back, knees and ankles, which is unacceptable for sick people.

Length can create excess weight, which is imperceptible for a tall person, but perceptible for a person of average height. This is especially true for monolithic sticks. Beginners are recommended to seek the advice of a specialist.

But there is also a standard calculation formula:

1. We multiply the growth of our body by a factor of 0.68.
2. Round the resulting total to the nearest multiple of 5.
3. We check the length after the fact. We put the tip on the toe of the leg and the hand that holds the stick should bend at the elbow at a right angle.

Individual approach. Instructors advise when choosing to be guided by your feelings; for this, telescopic sticks are suitable, which can be set to different lengths for each lesson, and thereby choose a comfortable one for yourself.

The size of the sticks also depends on the degree of physical fitness.

There are three groups:

Pole attachments, manufacturers and prices

Now, in order to better understand how to choose Nordic walking poles, we will study their types, materials, handles, tips, manufacturers, and also pay attention to their prices.

For greater safety, preference is given to monolithic "Nordics" - another name for Scandinavian poles, models with a carbon or composite-carbon shaft.

Medium class sticks have comfortable grips, rubberized or made of material. They are thin and fit easily in the palm of your hand.

Material:

1. The plastic is hard, the hand can slip.
2. Natural cork - absorbs moisture well, does not slip, suits any weather, but wears out quickly.
3. Made of special rubber - the products are easy to use and durable.

Lanyards (hand locks) on inexpensive models are usually made in the form of a loop, which is not very convenient in work, since it makes it difficult to quickly release the hand. The most successful locks look like a glove without fingers, they are securely attached to the handle, do not twist and can be easily removed.

The material should be strong, the glove should not press on the palm. Lanyards are produced in universal sizes, they can be adjusted to fit any hand. On expensive models, gloves of a certain size are used, they are selected individually, they fix the brush better. Used by professional athletes.

Good quality sticks come with a set of removable spikes that allow you to walk in any weather (snow, ice, soil). For asphalt, there should be removable rubber boot tips.

Since they wear out quickly, it is best to take care of a spare kit. It is better not to choose plastic "boots" because of their poor quality.

Nordic walking professionals choose manufacturers:

Alternative from other firms:

• Gabel - Italian production, a huge range of adjustable poles with soft straps for bindings.
• Karhu is a Finnish company that represents high-end monolithic sticks.
• Komperdell is an Austrian company, a novelty from the manufacturer of folding three-section poles.
• Swinx is a Norwegian manufacturer of lightweight walking poles.

Optimal choice of price and quality

“Do no harm” is the only principle that should be guided by the choice when it comes to health.

You should carefully consider:

Individual approach to choosing Scandinavian poles

For retirees

Taking into account old age and a large number of diseases, it is recommended to approach carefully both the choice of sports equipment and the activities themselves. It is best to start with a consultation with a doctor and in the future, in the absence of contraindications, the selection of an individual load from a specialist when walking.

There are no contraindications for Scandinavian walking, except for serious diseases that require a pastel mode.

But the intensity of the loads, depending on the disease, can be adjusted by the doctor.

Which Scandinavian walking poles are suitable for retirees:

With the help of such walking, pensioners have the opportunity to spend more time in the fresh air. She gives them pleasure, as you can lean on sticks when climbing a hill or short stops.

Scandinavian walking is allowed in case of disorders in the joints of the lower extremities, the lungs increase in volume by more than 30%, there is a greater oxygen saturation, the level of cholesterol in the blood decreases, the intestines and metabolism are normalized. Recommended to engage in overweight and obese people.

For kids

Scientific research has proven that sticking exercises develop a sense of balance and coordination of movements. It is an ideal way to normalize your posture.

Walking together with parents, training all the muscles of the upper body, while spending one and a half times more energy than normal walking.

All this will bring joy to children and allow them to develop physically correctly.

A child can play this sport from an appropriate age, when he can observe safety rules.

Expert advice:

Final brief instruction on the selection of poles for Nordic walking

1. Buy in specialized stores where you can visually familiarize yourself with the product.
2. If possible, seek the advice of a specialist or professional athlete.
3. Determine for yourself the type of sticks and material.
4. Pick up the length on site, check the quality and material.
5. Check the complete set, there should be removable tips, spare rubberized "boots", the presence of a lanyard (fasteners for hands), preferably the presence of an anti-shock (shock absorber).

A correct lifestyle, taking care of your health - this choice can be made by any of us. With all the negativity of the environment and the valiant acquisition of all our ailments, there is a way not only to enjoy contemplating nature and communicating with pleasant people, but also at the same time to improve the body, or to rehabilitate it.

Improve your state of mind, relieve stress, get rid of depression and get a good figure. The ideal way to acquire all of this is to do Nordic walking. Now you know how to choose the right Nordic walking poles. Do not forget to get advice on walking technique and find a pleasant company.

Good luck to all!

And a few more tips for choosing sticks - in the next video.

Nordic, Finnish, Norwegian, Nordic and Scandinavian are all names for sport walking with poles, which skiers have invented, suffering from the lack of opportunities to train in the summer. As you already understood, the main distinguishing feature of such training is the use of special sticks - Nordics, thanks to which not only the lower part of the body, but also the upper one, is strained during the training.

Nordic walking with sticks, the benefits of which were proven back in the 80s, are popular today as they have a beneficial effect on the human body. Moreover, you can engage in this kind of sport at any age. Scandinavian walking is recommended for pensioners and people with respiratory diseases, osteochondrosis, osteoporosis and arthrosis. There are no serious contraindications to training, but if you have undergone surgery or suffer from chronic or infectious diseases, it is better to consult your doctor first.

Before starting classes, you need to look video lessons on Nordic walking with sticks and buy nordics. There are several guidelines to follow to choose the best walking poles.

Choosing the length of walking poles

The length of Nordic walking poles is one of the most important parameters. The fact is that too short or long Nordics cannot be used during training, so it is important to correctly calculate their length before buying.

There is a simple formula - a person's height is multiplied by a factor of 0.66, and the resulting value is rounded up, since sports sticks are made with an interval of 5 cm. Experts recommend multiplying by 0.68 - this is also correct. The fact is that the length of the sticks may depend on the following parameters:

• Newbies and people with health problems multiply height by 0.66 (wellness training);
• Professionals multiply height by 0.68 (athletic training);
• Seniors multiply by 0.72 (the lightest workout).

The thing is that, depending on the length of the sticks, during exercise, the elbow joint is bent at a certain angle. The largest angle will create the least stress.

Healthy! The formula for calculating the height of Nordic walking poles is constantly changing. This is due to the fact that more and more people are fond of this sports direction, as a result of which European experts take a more detailed and serious approach to the issue of choosing sports equipment for training.

If you are planning to purchase Nordics over the Internet, then in order not to be mistaken with the length of the products, it is better to choose telescopic poles that can always be adjusted to the desired height. In addition to these, there are also fixed models. Let's talk more about the Nordic species.

Types of walking poles

When deciding how to choose the right Nordic walking poles, you need to consider the types of products. Today there are two categories of Nordics that differ in their characteristics.

Telescopic

Such poles can be adjusted not only based on your height, but also depending on the terrain on which you will be walking. Telescopic models are compact, foldable and can be easily transported in a sports or casual bag.

In order for telescopic Nordics to withstand loads and not "loose" they are equipped with special clamps. Therefore, models with more than 3 sections will be reliable and durable.

Folding poles can be used by the whole family or to please friends. Everyone can quickly change the length of the product and try themselves in Nordic walking. It is worth noting that telescopic models are more suitable for beginners who have not yet decided what level of load is more suitable for them.

Among the disadvantages of folding models, it is worth noting their high weight and cost. In addition, telescopic poles usually have a shorter lifespan than fixed Nordics.

Fixed

Fixed sticks are more suitable for experienced walkers who train in a specific area, such as on paved paths in a park near home. The fact is that the length of such Nordics does not change, so they are chosen for the only user who clearly knows what kind of loads are suitable for him.

Among the advantages of fixed products, it is worth highlighting their low weight, reliability and durability.

Nordics are made of various materials based on what, and their cost will depend.

Walking Pole Material

Today, sport walking poles are made from high-strength aluminum alloys or composite materials (carbon). Carbon is highly flexible, resilient and lightweight. Moreover, it is stronger than steel. Due to the high cost of this material, it is used only as an additional reinforcing component.

Healthy! The more carbon a piece contains, the more expensive it will be.

People who are overweight are advised to purchase sticks with a high carbon content. The material absorbs vibrations well when walking on hard ground or asphalt. As a result, tension is relieved from the arms and upper shoulder girdle.

There are also combined carbon and fiberglass models.

What sticks should have handles

Nordic walking sticks should be equipped with thin handles that fit easily in the palm of your hand. Handles are:

Plastic

They do not absorb moisture, which is inconvenient, since after 10 minutes of training, the handles become slippery. In addition, plastic models are very rigid and uncomfortable.

Cork

Unlike plastic counterparts, they absorb moisture well. These handles are comfortable and pleasant to the touch. Among the shortcomings is the fragility of the cork, which begins to exfoliate over time.

Rubber

This is the best choice. Rubber products perfectly absorb moisture, they are elastic and fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. Such handles are usually equipped with professional Nordic models.

In addition, it should be borne in mind that the handles must be equipped with a lanyard (a special lock for the hands). The lanyard is convenient both during warm-up, when the sticks are not used, and in the course of the exercises themselves (very convenient when the Nordic has fallen out of hand). It is best if the lanyard is made in the form of a fingerless glove. Such products are easily removable, and also allow you to perform exercises correctly, in accordance with all the requirements of the training technique.

What should be the tips for sticks

Conventional Nordic walking poles are equipped with an iron tip. The cheapest models have quick-erase attachments. More expensive Nordics are equipped with two types of tips: a metal spike and a nozzle for walking on asphalt. Asphalt products are made of soft rubber that reduces vibration.

Healthy! If you plan to go for walking in the winter, ask the seller if there is an appropriate attachment for this.

The most expensive Nordic walking poles are made of steel. The durable material improves traction and produces much less noise. This is especially important for those who are going to walk professionally. The strength of the tip determines the level of stress that will be transferred to the nozzle during training.

Manufacturers

It is preferable to choose Nordics from well-known manufacturers, today the following companies are considered the market leaders in this segment: Exel, LEKI and Swix.

Finnish company Exel founded the Nordic Walking Federation. Carbon fiber Nordics are produced under this brand. It is the most comfortable and durable piece of equipment with an almost lifetime warranty.

Beginners will love LEKI products. The production is located in Germany, the second country in terms of the number of "walkers" with sticks. The company offers a fairly wide range of products, so if you have never even done Scandinavian walking, you will definitely pick up something from this line.

Swix is ​​based in Norway. The company specializes in making the finest cross-country skis.

If we talk about a low price and good quality, then you should pay attention to the products of the Ergoforce company. The Taiwanese firm specializes in telescopic walking poles that are suitable for people with a height of 154 to 206 cm.

In addition, there are: RealStick (Finnish company), Marko (Estonia) and Gabel (Italy).

In custody

In order not to be mistaken when choosing sticks, try several different Nordic models. It is better not to make a purchase without the slightest experience in such activities. Before going to the store, it's best to attend at least a few workouts and decide on the type of poles that work best for you. Before choosing Scandinavian walking poles, the table of the main parameters of which is demonstrated in the article, evaluate how seriously you plan to engage in this relatively new sport.

In our time of information technology, there are a sufficient number of articles and videos on this topic. But we will try to figure it out on our own, based on the knowledge gained from the same videos and feature articles.

The first mention of Nordic walking appeared in 1997, when the Finn Mark Kantan patented it, entitled the original Nordic walking. And since then, probably, there are no people left who would not have heard about this new kind of amateur sport, simply called Scandinavian walking.

Although long before that, in 1940, athletes skiers trained with two ski poles in the summer to keep themselves in proper shape. As a result, it turned out that those who trained in the summer, thus, surpassed the rest of their colleagues in sports performance. Probably, they were the discoverers of the Scandinavian walking. Thus, they also proved a certain benefit of this type of physical education. But they were athletes. But what about the rest? With ordinary people, thousands scurrying past us every day. Is this sport suitable for them? Let's try to figure it out.

By virtue of the title of our article, we will not list in detail all the advantages of walking with two sticks, which in appearance are no different from ordinary ski ones. Suffice it to say just one basic fact noted by medical researchers. For example, during normal walking, a person uses 70 percent of the muscles, and in Nordic walking, as much as 90 percent. In other words, with this kind of walking the whole body works and trains. I'm not even talking about the healing effect in osteochondrosis, scoliosis, back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, heart disease, etc. This list can be continued and continued.

It's time to summarize the above: walks in the fresh air with two sticks are suitable for absolutely everyone, young and old. For men and women... The sick as well as the healthy. Some as training and to keep oneself in good shape, others for the healing process.

Now on the streets of any city you can often see such walkers. Then a young girl in a tracksuit will walk with a cheerful, light gait. Then an overweight middle-aged man walks with a glorious gait, loudly tapping the rhythm with the tips of sticks on the asphalt. And sometimes a very old granny, which barely moves, drags the same ski poles behind it. What she does? Going in for sports or just leaning on two sticks, afraid to fall to one side?

What does what we have seen tell us? Isn't it about the fact that Scandinavian walking is gaining momentum and gaining more and more popularity among wide sections of the population of different ages. A natural question is brewing here. Do all stick walkers know about the rules of such walking? How exactly you need to walk and what to hold in your hands? Often, many, having barely heard about the benefits of this type of physical education, that it is possible to heal from diseases, shortness of breath and even lose weight, found old sticks in their barn and rushed for long distances, hammering them along the pavement.

How to choose Nordic walking poles

Surely most people did not understand that it is not enough just to pick up the first ski poles that come across and walk with them down the street. In order for Nordic walking to really benefit, and not harm, it is very important to choose the right equipment. Namely, comfortable sports shoes and, more importantly, support poles of the required length. Well, with shoes, I think everything is more or less clear to us. But what about sticks? What should they be? How long? What are they made of? And in general, how to walk correctly to improve your health? And why aren't simple ski poles suitable for Nordic walking?

Nordic walking sticks by height

The first reason is that the ski poles are much longer. After all, the length of walking sticks should be selected according to a certain coefficient to a person's height. Average coefficient 0.68. But so that you do not puzzle how much it will be, I will simply say that the length of the sticks should be approximately two-thirds of the height. For example, if the height is 160 cm, then walking sticks are suitable for 105-107 cm.

There are separate recommendations depending on the purpose of walking. For athletes, the support poles should be slightly longer than the average length, and for physiotherapy exercises, on the contrary, a little less. There are practically no contraindications to Nordic walking. The only thing I consider it my duty to mention: if you are sick with cardiovascular diseases, then do not start doing Scandinavian walking without the advice of a doctor and an instructor.

For recovery, you need to start walking without fanaticism, gradually, by slightly increasing the load. Try to follow the Nordic walking guidelines. Step properly off your heel on your toe, breathe through your nose. You can find out more about all this from the Internet. It is not forbidden to talk while walking, although it can interfere with your breathing rhythm. But the main thing is that you like what you are doing, and it gives you joy. Over time, you will surely discover the positive results of your adventures. And if you still have like-minded people, it will only add to your pleasure from walking.

A variety of sticks

Now let's look at what sticks are. They are divided into two main types according to the execution of their shaft. Telescopic and monolithic. Already by the very names of the species, it is easy to guess what these or those are. Each of the species is superior in some way, but not without its drawbacks.

• So, the telescopic structure of the shaft.

Of course, its main advantage is that it adjusts to any person's height. Very suitable for children. Because you don't have to constantly buy new ones for them. This means that the family budget is also saved, which is an important factor in our time. It should be noted also the mobility of telescopic poles. After all, they are very convenient to transport. Again, this means that wherever you are going - you can always take them with you, and this will not cause you any inconvenience.

Another their main advantage is the price. Folding sticks are much cheaper than their monolithic friends. And again a plus for the budget! Of the negative factors, it should be noted the lack of reliability of telescopic poles. At the most inopportune moment, the clips can break if sand, dirt or water gets into them. In winter, they often freeze. It is possible that if the retainer is broken, the stick will fold, which can cause injury.

• Monolithic structure of the shaft.

Monolithic poles of a certain (fixed) length are much easier to handle and are considered safer. It is for this reason that experienced Nordic walking instructors advise both beginners and all their students to acquire such sticks.

Here I would also like to say that, of course, there are telescopic and monolithic shafts of both high and low quality. And both the convenience and the service life of those directly depend on this. It is these factors that are recommended to be considered when choosing inventory.... Also, never forget that the miser pays twice.

The best quality ones are carbon sticks. They are strong enough, resilient and flexible at the same time. Among them there are sticks of increased strength, where the composition of carbon fiber is 100%. It is easy to guess that such sticks are superior not only in quality, but also in price. They are much more expensive than the others, but they are much, much stronger and will definitely last more than one year.

As an alternative to carbon poles, there are shafts made of high-strength aluminum alloys. They are inferior to their predecessors in terms of elasticity, do not spring at all when walking, but their price does not bite too much. And, if you do not attach too much importance to Nordic walking, then this option is just yours. Why overpay? It is worth adding here that for large people, natural carbon poles are still recommended, because they perfectly spring and absorb vibration on hard ground, and also free the shoulders and arms from unnecessary stress.

About tips

Any shaft ends with a tip, be it at least a spear or, as in our case, a Nordic walking stick. With the spear, everything is clear to us for a long time. And what kind of tips are there on the shafts of Nordic walking sticks? Sharp, like skiing or are they completely different?

• Sharp tips.

There are several configurations... Sharp tips still have a place on these sticks. They are also called thorns. There are different studs, removable, easy to replace. Some are designed for walking on loose soil or sand. Others for slippery surfaces, snow, ice, etc.

• Rubber tips.

But for asphalt, there are special rubber tips that will not tap off the shot and will not slip off during a punch. But, I must add that the service life of the rubber tips is very limited. Therefore, if you are planning a walk and on asphalt or in mountainous areas, be aware that you will have to frequently change rubber tips, which you can purchase separately from the poles themselves.

About handles

It is also important what grip and lanyard are on your walking support instruments. First rule: the handle should not slip and should fit comfortably in the hand. Remember that you have to walk tens of thousands of steps holding on to the handles of Nordic walking sticks. Here you should pay special attention to how the grip area is made. Does it fit your hands. Is it comfortable for you to hold the grip. If during the choice you answered yes to these two questions, then the handle is definitely suitable for you.

Handles can be made from natural cork. But most often they are made from rubber or plastic substitutes, because cork substitutes are much stronger and more wear-resistant. Also, such materials are easier to clean and care for. However, the benefits of cork handles cannot be denied. After all, your palms on such handles will not sweat, which means that you will experience significantly less discomfort than, say, with plastic slippery handles.

The lanyard is usually attached to the handle and looks like a half-glove. Sometimes it's just straps. Adjusting the lanyard straps is made individually and depends on the structure of the hand and other physical characteristics of the person. The main task of the lanyard is to support the hand on the handle. Just like a lanyard on a ski pole does.

How do you choose the right Nordic walking poles?

Based on the above information, the first thing to pay attention to is the appropriate length of the sticks. Because it is this factor that will affect how you will feel during and after your walks. Whether walking will benefit your health. Everything else is considered important, but if you fly with the main one, it will no longer matter! Of course, it is clear that you cannot buy such sticks about which many negative reviews have been written.

Don't take suspiciously cheap ones either. They may be of poor quality or defective... Buying such a product in online stores is also not an option. Why? you ask. Yes, because you cannot check it until the moment of purchase and make sure whether it suits you. In addition, the same low-quality product may be sent to you.

So buy Nordic walking sticks from specialized stores and inspect the product carefully before purchasing. And yet, just before going to the store, study the topic thoroughly, watch the videos, chat with knowledgeable people, read customer reviews. Once you have the information, you will significantly save your time and increase your chances of buying a decent product.

And yet, despite all the information, there remains one question that often arises among people who first encountered the choice of Nordic walking poles. Where is the easiest place to get them? In Russia there is a Sportmaster chain of stores, where you can easily find a suitable option for yourself, guided by the materials of this article as well as other information.

I am 168 cm tall and 53 years old. When I decided to do Scandinavian walking, I took out school ski poles from the mezzanine, they were just 116 cm. It seemed to me that walking with them on the trampled snow is quite convenient. The whole body is stretched out remarkably. But children in the spring gave them carbon solid sticks for their birthday. I never thought that relying on ski or on these special ones is not at all the same, heaven and earth. I walked along the park paths in the rain in my raincoat and enjoyed the walk.

Surely while walking in the park, you often met people of different ages who walked like you, only holding sticks in their hands that looked like skiing ones. It is clear that they are not skiing, and people hold them in their hands for a reason - they go in for sports. If you like watching such "walkers" and you have decided that this sport is clearly for you, we will show you what to look for when choosing equipment.

Nordic walking sticks: types

There are two types of Nordic walking sticks:

• fixed length or monolithic;
• sliding or telescopic.

However, even experienced athletes will not be able to unequivocally answer which type to give preference to, since both have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Monolithic sticks are characterized by the following:

• they are lightweight;
• there is no risk of injury;
• will last as long as possible;
• you can walk on sand, wet roads and even mud.

It doesn't matter if you are new to the sport or already an experienced walker. Monolithic stick fits all. Beginners do not have to worry that the structure will inadvertently fold and lead to injury. And for those who have been doing this kind of walking for a long time, it is important to know that a monolithic stick gives a constant load during training. The most important thing is to choose a stick for your height. We will tell you how to do this correctly, but a little below.

Telescopic poles fold easily. They have a built-in special anti-shock system - a shock-absorbing spring.

Sliding sticks pick by for the following reasons:

• the length is easily adjustable;
• they are easy to transport and take with you on any journey;
• you can easily adjust the intensity of the load;
• their cost is cheaper than that of monolithic ones.

Keep in mind that it is best not to use folding poles too often. If water, dirt or sand gets into the clips several times, they can easily break. Also, the stick may start to make constant noise due to the appearance of excessive vibration. Therefore, if you practice every day, it is better not to buy such sticks. They are more suitable for those who train infrequently or, say, go out of town on weekends to actively relax. In this case telescopic poles are ideal for transportation.

How to choose Scandinavian sticks: basic criteria

When you have decided on the type of sticks, you need the other parameters to suit you perfectly. It is important that the sticks are not too high or too heavy, soft or uncomfortable. To do this, you need to pay attention to the following criteria.

There is no exact formula for calculating the optimal weight. This parameter is strictly individual. The main thing is that you should not feel heavy when you hold the sticks in your hands. After all, if they are hard, then the training will be unbearable and more harmful than useful.

Length

Almost the entire training depends on the length of the Scandinavian sticks. Sticks that are too long can give an excessive load, and too short - on the contrary, do not give it at all. Fortunately, there is a calculation formula to help you find the optimal stick height. To do this, you need to multiply your own growth by 0.68, and round the result to an even figure. Let's say your height is 167, multiply by 0.68 and get 113.6. This means you need a stick about 115 centimeters long.

Elasticity

Scandinavian sticks must be resilient. This is very important, because hard sticks give off vibration, and this is harmful to the joints. In addition, you can simply fall when walking if your poles are not bouncy. Take a few quick steps, touching the tip to the stop. If at the same time you did not feel any vibrations giving into your hand, then you made the right choice.

Material

• Aluminum. Scandinavian sticks are rarely made from this material. And it is better not to buy made of it, because aluminum does not cope well with vibrations. This is not so important and noticeable if you are training on the snow, however, if the classes are held on asphalt terrain, discomfort will arise.
• Carbon. Sticks made of this material are much stronger than aluminum ones. Plus, they will last you long enough, as they absorb vibrations well and weigh a little.
• Fiberglass. Scandinavian sticks made of this material transmit the least vibrations and are practically weightless in the hands. However, they are not very durable and often break.

A pen

• Cork. This handle is considered one of the most comfortable. The material is non-allergenic.
• Rubber. The material (a mixture of rubber and cork) provides a comfortable grip and fit, so the hand will not slip.
• Plastic. The most uncomfortable handle. Plastic is not able to absorb sweat, so the hand constantly slips and the person experiences discomfort.

Lanyards

Many Scandinavian poles come with lanyards. They can be in the form of semi-gloves or a kind of trap. They are needed so that you can comfortably hold the sticks in your hands. Plus, the lanyards take the strain off your wrists. But to do this, they must fit tightly around the hands and hold the wrist without squeezing them. It is best to opt for a removable lanyard. Then you can easily drink water or take off your jacket, for example, without taking your hands out of the lanyards.

When choosing lanyards, it is also important to look at the girth of your palm. They should be about half the size. If the girth is 20 cm, then the lanyard should be about 9-10 cm. Look also at the material and fabric from which it is made. It shouldn't be too hard to rub your hand.

Tip

Choose a tip based on where you plan to train. A solid metal tip is considered versatile, and you can train with it on any road.

Tungsten or carbide tips are good for loose soil, sandy or dirt roads. There are models of Scandinavian poles with interchangeable tips. Therefore, they can be purchased separately.

Rubber or carbon tips are suitable for walking on hard asphalt, concrete, tiles or cobblestones.

- the only special device that is used for training. When buying sports equipment, carefully study the important characteristics: the material from which it is made, the size and design. Mistakes in the choice of devices will lead to increased stress on the bones, joints of the back and knees, which will cause the "opposite" effect: the pain will intensify, provoking poor health.

We will tell you how to choose poles for Nordic walking, ensuring the effectiveness of classes, eliminating diseases, providing an athlete with a surge of strength and good mood.

Specificity of choice

An important condition for the selection of sports equipment is its correct length. The devices must be ideally matched to the height of the athlete. Then they will solve the main task of the Scandinavian movement: they will reduce the load on the spinal column, joints, "taking it upon themselves."

Nordic walking poles, "adjusted" to the height, strengthen the skeleton of the muscles of the body and heart, and the permeability of blood vessels. , depression and constant fatigue - an incomplete list of important changes that will occur with an athlete who regularly walks "in a Scandinavian" way.

Knowing how to choose the right Nordic walking poles, they achieve excellent results in training, achieving an improvement in well-being and mood. A well-chosen sports equipment must meet the following requirements:

1. Have a low weight so as not to create additional stress on bones and joints.
2. Be resilient.
3. Have a well-adjustable handle that can be an extension of your hand as you move.
4. Contain a rubber tip that will prevent slipping on the road surface.
5. To be crafted from high quality material.

Many novice athletes try to save money using conventional ski devices for training, not understanding how they differ from the "Finnish" ones. Let's see what is the difference between "Finnish" and ski equipment:

1. Ski devices cannot be adjusted for height.
2. They do not have tips for a stable position on various surfaces.
3. The ski inventory lacks special straps resembling gloves.

Also, do not use trekking supports for practice. This is the name given to tourists' inventory, the task of which is to "support" the weight of a person, his backpack. These devices are heavy, too long, and thick, so they are completely unsuitable for intense Scandinavian workouts.

Devices not designed for Scandinavian movement will overload muscle, bone and joint tissue. Therefore, saving on inventory will not allow you to achieve the main goal of Finnish walking - complete recovery.

Important criteria

To understand how to choose Nordic walking poles, you need to know their specifics. Consider the features of the parameters, the characteristics of sports equipment, the rules for their selection.

Adjust the length

The support has 2 important functions:

• Reduces stress on bones, joints and muscles;
• Increases the beneficial effect of movement, evenly distributing the load "throughout the body."

Therefore, the "correct" height of Nordic walking poles is an important criterion for choosing sports equipment.

If it was not possible to correctly select the height of the poles (they turned out to be too short), then the athlete will not be able to properly push off the surface. The consequence of this violation will be, which will "react" to classes with pain, discomfort. In addition, devices that are too low will not allow you to take the wide stride, which is so necessary for an effective workout. As a result, the muscles located on the back of the legs will be overstrained.

"Excessive" size of Nordic walking poles will cause incorrect body position during training: the athlete will not be able to tilt the body forward at the right angle.

The growth of an athlete is a parameter of choice: the taller the person, the longer he needs the equipment. However, in order to correctly calculate the length of the Nordic walking poles, you need to take into account 3 more factors:

• The presence or absence of serious pathologies;
• Athlete's age;
• The quality of physical fitness.

The calculation of the length of the sticks is carried out individually according to the formula, which is based on the growth of the athlete and the Nordic constant equal to 0.68. The resulting value is rounded and used for selection. The given coefficient is generalized. It is used by athletes who have excellent health, physical fitness, no chronic diseases, and have not reached retirement age.

To determine what length of poles for Nordic walking is needed, a coefficient of 0.66 will help. It is multiplied by growth. The same coefficient is used when it is necessary to calculate the length of devices for people with joint diseases. Professional athletes who train in the summer choose equipment by multiplying their height by a factor of 0.72.

If you don't feel like calculating, look for the values ​​in the Nordic Walking Pole Size Chart.

From it you can see that the difference in length between the models is 5 cm. This gap allows you to choose a model for all categories of athletes.

To make sure that the choice is made correctly, take the inventory, put it on the floor, holding on to it as if walking. If the elbows form a right angle, then your choice is correct.

However, there are exceptions. If an athlete has problems with the lower back in the form of regular pain, it is better to round the obtained calculations downward: let's say the angle is slightly more than a straight line. Such a trick will allow you to observe: the body, when moving, will take the necessary, but minimal tilt.

If, during or after training, pain or discomfort appears in the back, this indicates that you have chosen the wrong size of the devices! Consult a specialist for advice. He will tell you how to choose the right size for your inventory. Telescopic poles are available. Their design allows you to adjust the length.

We select the design

The selection of poles for Nordic walking is carried out taking into account the design of the devices.

The design of sports equipment is of 2 types:

• Fixed (there is no way to adjust the length);
• Telescopic (sliding).

It is difficult to say which design is better, since each of them has advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you need to choose based on your needs.

Telescopic devices have the following advantages:

• The length can be adjusted to suit the athlete or new terrain;
• Can be used as "children's" equipment: the equipment can "grow" with its owner;
• The device is easy to transport, because all its sections are quickly folded, placed in the luggage;
• A special blocker allows you to withstand pressure without compromising fixation;
• Convenient for beginners who have just started training: the required length is "calculated" by trial and error.

When buying telescopic poles, you should carefully examine the quality of the sliding mechanism. For some manufacturers, the mechanism often breaks down. Sand, water or other small particles of foreign objects that get into the slots of the fasteners destroy them. And in winter, due to low temperatures, the three-section devices cannot be decomposed: they freeze firmly.

The appearance of "strange" sounds or vibrations in sliding devices during movement indicates that the fasteners in them are damaged. Therefore, the adaptation can fold, provoking an injury to the athlete.

Carbon fiber telescopic equipment is heavier than a solid one, and the repair of such sticks is expensive.

The difference with non-adjustable Nordic walking poles is that they do not change their size. They are simple, lightweight, durable. Such qualities provide them with reliability and durability. However, their use implies accurate knowledge of the size, so they are not recommended for beginners. For transportation, these models are inconvenient and require the use of covers.

Specificity of the material

When choosing sports equipment, it is necessary to take into account the material from which it is made:

• Aluminum;
• Carbon;
• Fiberglass combined with carbon.

Aluminum sticks have the most budgetary cost. However, their performance is lower than that of other "representatives" of sports equipment. They are heavy, wear out quickly, and cannot eliminate vibration when driving.

Carbon nordic walking poles are expensive items. However, they have the best quality characteristics. Carbon is a type of carbohydrate plastic that uses a special weave of its threads. The durability of the product is due to the carbon fiber. The more of this material is contained in the equipment, the more durable it will be, and its cost - more expensive.

High strength of products is combined with lightness, elasticity, flexibility. These characteristics are optimal for the joints. Carbon sports equipment is suitable for athletes struggling with excess weight, because it perfectly eliminates vibration, unnecessary stress from the shoulders and arms.

Fiberglass and carbon fiber alloy allows to combine high performance of carbon fiber and optimal cost.

Specificity of the complete set

When deciding which Nordic walking poles to choose, study the complete set of sports equipment: pens, tips, greenhouses.

Pens

Convenient handles prevent slipping due to rubberized "ribs". With their help, there is a reliable fixation of the hand. Sliding the hand while moving will cause discomfort to the athlete, which will affect the effectiveness of the training.

Choose holders made from natural materials that resemble cork in structure. Products made from natural cork are lightweight, easy to care for, and have a long service life.

Plastic holders are not as durable. Their technical characteristics are much lower, so they often "slide" out of the palm of your hand. This is due to the release of sweat that occurs during exercise. Moisture particles, falling on the handle, are not absorbed, causing slipping. Plastic handles do not cope well with bad weather conditions, becoming unusable from sudden changes in temperature.

Useful video - Expert advice on how to choose poles for Finnish walking

Lanyard

A special device called a lanyard is attached to the holder of Scandinavian sticks. Outwardly, it resembles a glove whose fingers have been cut off. The purpose of the lanyard is to secure the hand and wrist as you move. The presence of a "Scandinavian glove" is necessary to maintain the correct technique of movement: it allows you to release the handle while supporting the equipment on the ground.

To make the lanyard "sit" on the hand, use belts or Velcro, which are attached to it. There are models that are sold with a certain lanyard size: you must definitely try it on before buying. Such generic models have a negative impact on the trajectory of the device.

The most effective model of lanyards is considered to be adjustable equipment, divided for the right and left hands. Also important is the quality material from which the "gloves" are made. It should absorb moisture well.

Models of products that have a removable lanyard are popular and convenient. It saves time when you need to quickly answer a phone call, have a drink or quickly perform another action.

The length of the glove also matters. If the strap is short, the inventory should be shorter, otherwise there will not be enough time to make a full arm movement.

Handpieces

Since training with Scandinavian devices is carried out at any time of the year, they are equipped with a special "protection" that serves as a shock absorber when walking on snow, sand, asphalt, and other natural surfaces.

The inventory has durable tips. They are used for training in severe frosts in winter. They are made of metal, look like claws or spikes, and are made of tungsten carbide. It is a very durable material. But these attachments cannot be used on other surfaces. Therefore, they use removable nozzles and tips that do not undergo abrasion. They are used only for their intended purpose:

• From metal - for earth, sand, any loose soil;
• From rubber - for asphalt and other hard surfaces.

Video - About the choice of poles for Nordic walking

Choosing a manufacturer

The choice of sports equipment is now wide, so buyers may be confused. We list the popular manufacturers whose products have proven themselves on the positive side:

EXEL is a Finnish manufacturer that has stood at the foundations of the International Scandinavian Walking Organization. The inventory is expensive.
Leki - a German company presents models that even take into account the peculiarities of the individual technique of athletes. Always have removable tips included.
KV + Adula - Italian manufacturers delight with a large assortment of products equipped with removable parts, tips from Pobedit. A large selection of models allows you to choose the right product of different cost and configuration.

The choice of sports equipment for walking in Finnish comes down to buying poles. The effectiveness of training depends on their choice. Therefore, you should not try to save money on them. And before buying, you need to carefully read the important characteristics of the devices and the recommendations of specialists for their use.