LAC LA BICHE – Have you urban-poled today?
Local fitness instructor Sue LaPierre has two workshops on July 25 to get you set up… and explain what it is.
Pierre, an urban poling instructor and CSEP certified personal trainer, says there are many benefits for people using walking poles for fitness.
“They help to reduce impact to the knees and hips and help take the pressure off the low back, while improving posture,” LaPierre told Lakeland This Week, adding that using walking poles can burn up to 46 per cent more calories than walking alone. “They also can help to fire up the core muscles and give you more of a total body workout.”
Urban poling, also known as Nordic Walking, LaPierre continued, is gaining popularity with people who are looking for something different than merely traditional exercise. Urban poles, she explained, are a fantastic tool for hiking as they can assist with climbing as well as with slowing down movement when people are going downhill.
For those interested in learning the ins and outs of poling, the are two workshops taking place at the Bold Centre on July 25 are Urban Poling for Mobility and Urban Poling for Fitness . A portion of the class will be offered in the fitness studio while the other part will take place on the Canadian Natural Track on the third floor.
“Both workshops are being offered for people who are interested in learning how to use walking poles,” she said.
In each workshop, LaPierre explained, participants will learn the proper techniques for using poles, along with exercises, stretches, and tips for using them safely.
According to LaPierre, people with mild to moderate stages of certain neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis, may also find increased confidence and security when walking with poles.
The Urban Poling for Fitness workshop, she said, will be a more advanced session for those looking to do more than just walking with poles. Both workshops will offer exercises and stretches that can be done using the poles.
The cost for each workshop is $15 and those wanting to participate can register by noon the day before to ensure the workshop runs. For more information about the workshops, LaPierre can be reached at 780-623-6377 or at [email protected]