Ninth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Nordic walking enhances personal fitness programs for individuals and wellness coaching and programming for trainers, club owners, and corporate wellness managers. Nordic walking, invented by Finnish cross-country skiers, is a full-body activity using poles to involve the upper body in walking. Evidence-based research has shown that Nordic walking improves weight loss, glucose management, muscular strength, lung capacity, heart capability, and cholesterol levels among other benefits. Nordic walking is especially suitable for active agers because it is a low-impact activity that allows those with joint issues and chronic conditions to participate. Nordic walking also makes group walks enjoyable because the intensity level allows walkers to converse during exercise, providing a rich social benefit. The presentation of this case study includes an exploration of the adoption of Nordic walking using Rogers’ diffusion of innovations theory and assesses training and programming possibilities for individuals, trainers and coaches, and corporate wellness managers.