Hiking Poles vs Nordic Walking Poles: What’s the and Why Nordic Walk?

People often assume hiking poles and Nordic walking poles are the same thing. They are not. They look similar but they are used in completely different ways.

Hiking poles are mainly for support. They help with balance and take pressure off your joints, especially on hills or rough ground.

Nordic walking poles are designed to help you move forward. You use them to push through each stride, which brings your upper body into the walk.

The strap is the biggest giveaway. Nordic poles have a glove style strap so you can open your hand and still control the pole. That is what allows proper technique. With hiking poles you tend to grip the handle the whole time.

Because of that difference, the movement is different too. Nordic walking uses a natural arm swing and a push behind you. It feels more like a rhythm once you get it right.

There is solid research showing Nordic walking increases heart rate and energy use compared to normal walking at the same pace. It also brings in muscles through the arms, shoulders and core that you would not normally use as much.

Why learn properly

You can pick up poles and have a go, but most people do not get the full benefit without being shown how to use them.

That is why we teach the 10 steps. It is simply a structured way to build the technique so it feels natural rather than forced.

It starts with posture and simple movement, then builds up to timing, coordination and using the poles to actually propel you forward.

Once it clicks, walking feels smoother and often easier, even though you are doing more.

If you want to learn to Nordic walk in Malvern, I run two-hour sessions monthly. For more information and to book your place, click here.

Learn to Nordic Walk sessions,:

• Have fun while exercising — enjoy the outdoors and meet new people

• Tone your arms — say goodbye to “bingo wings”

• Tone your tummy — engage your core muscles for posture, stability, and strength

• Engage 90% of your muscles — get a full-body workout with every stride

• Improve posture, balance, and stability

• Build confidence to Nordic walk anywhere​

Nordic walking is not just exercise — it’s enjoyable, social, and effective. Every session leaves you feeling energised and motivated to keep moving!