Nordic walking moves into stride

And now the craze is sweeping the region, with organised groups holding walks that attract people aged eight to 80.

The activity not only helps walkers burn more calories but takes the strain off their joints.

Special poles are provided to walkers, which are used to propel them along, making it easier to move faster than normal, without feeling the effort.

One group was in Leasowes Park, Halesowen, this week, where those taking part enjoyed a brisk walk and a good old-fashioned natter en route.

Beryl and Brian Moore, of Somerfields Avenue in Halesowen went along to their first class and said the poles do help you to walk faster.

Mr Moore, aged 79, said: "Beryl has had heart problems and so we struggle to do a lot of exercise.

"The poles do make is easier but you have to learn how to use them properly. We are told to use the poles as though you are marching – using the opposite arm to the leg."

The technique gives the whole body a workout and is good for the heart and lungs as well as burning 45 per cent more calories than normal walking.

It is also recommend for neck, shoulder or back problems and reduces pressure on the knees and joints. You do feel like you are using your whole body," says Mrs Moore, aged 77. "We have three grandchildren and one great-grandson called George who is just learning to walk so we have to keep fit to be able to keep up with him."

The sessions, which take place at The Leasowes in Halesowen on Mondays at 5.30pm and Wednesdays at 2pm, last around one hour for all levels of fitness – and all ages.

Linda Jones, 60, has recently retired as a teacher and says she is using the Nordic Pole Walking as a way of keeping fit. "I really enjoyed it – it is great to be out in the fresh air, looking at the scenery and have a chat with everyone," she said.

"I used to be a teacher, which is a job where you never sit down, and I didn't want to become unfit in my retirement.

Dudley Council's parks physical activity officer, Kim Braznell, has been specially trained to deliver the new course.

Kim, aged 53, said: "My remit is to do physical activities on green spaces around the borough and the aim to help make people fitter and combat obesity.

"We do a range of activities such as buggy walks with mothers and babies and exercise classes in the parks. I had to think of a new exercise to do for this year and I saw Nordic walking and thought I would give it a go.

"I trained by doing a level two course in Nordic walking and I'm pleased to say that the uptake from local people has been excellent. People don't have to be super fit to give it a try and it is very sociable."