Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine

Recently introduced on the Polish market, the Finnish product under the name of Nordic Walking gains more and more supporters and followers. When trying to determine the essence of Nordic Walking we should first define the term ‛physical activity’ and ‛recreation’. Nordic Walking belongs to a general motor activity. Physical activity is the amount of exercise or physical activity needed to develop and maintain one’s health. Quite a simple technique of motion while walking with poles, the possibility of maintaining control of exercise intensity and relatively inexpensive (compared to other disciplines) sports equipment contribute positively to the versatility of Nordic Walking and its availability to any person interested in this sport. The march with the poles is one of the most commonly undertaken, and the most natural form of exercise in everyday life, especially for people in middle and old age, as these particular age groups dominate in Nordic Walking. It does not require large financial outlays or specific time and place, as opposed to practicing fitness or bodybuilding. One can just go out for a daily walk and simply take the poles with them.