Saturday, December 25, 2010
Nordic Walking on Christmas Eve - And HUGE Success Working With Stroke Recovery!
My favorite activities are Nordic Walking, Roller Skiing and Cross Country Skiing.
Today, Christmas Eve, I had the chance to provide a free Nordic Walking lesson to a young lady recovering from a stroke. My one-piece EXEL Nordic Walking Poles made a huge improvement in her balance, stability and gait.
On our 2nd lap around the living room and kitchen areas she started to alternate perfectly – working the right arm in conjunction with the left foot (opposite or alternating). Her supportive parents were thrilled. She felt the success and knew the poles would play a key role in her recovery.
In ALL of my Nordic Walking Classes and Lessons I get the same positive feedback. In ALL of my Nordic Walking Classes/Lessons I only supply quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles. Cheap/flimsy twist-locks and flip-locks are terrible, while our one-piece poles prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles.
I’ve been coaching runners and skiers for over 25 years and walking with real Nordic Walking Poles makes so much sense to me. The false promotion of cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock poles makes no sense to me at all. One-piece Nordic Walking that are sized correctly are far superior to heavy, clunky collapsible poles. Collapsible poles tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse unexpectedly.
At SkiWalking.com and the American Nordic Walking System we provide 16 different lengths of quality Nordic Walking Poles from SWIX and EXEL – from Norway and Finland.
Perfect length poles help us to automatically walk with a super straight back - better walking posture is biomechanically a good thing. This improved walking posture when combined with the unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action of walking with poles radically reduces the stress to the shins, knees, hips and back. Nordic Walking is low impact and yet provides a highly effective workout - burning more calories and working more muscle groups than regular walking.
Nordic Walking’s winning combination of improved posture, a unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action and shock absorbing benefits - helping many individuals to walk comfortably again. Nordic Walking Poles are helping individuals with balance issues, knee issues or new knees, hip issues or new hips, back issues (including those with rods in their back), weight issues, heart disease/cardiac issues, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), multiple sclerosis (MS), parkinson's (PD), neuropathy, diabetes, arthritis, bursitis, scoliosis, lumbar stenosis, fibromyalgia, post polio, osteoporosis, stroke recovery, cancer recovery and other limitations to walking. Nordic Walking poles are helping thousands of Americans get off the couch, successfully get outside, start walking safely and effectively launch much needed walking campaigns.
When I’m out xc skiing, roller skiing or Ski Walking (Nordic Walking) I only use one-piece poles and would NEVER consider using cheap/crappy collapsible poles. I’m out cross country skiing every day during the winter and today while skiing with my best friend it was so obvious (so crystal clear) that our one-piece poles are so darn superior to cheap/flimsy collapsible poles. And the best straps for cross country skiing also make the best straps for Nordic Walking! The fingerless glove-type straps that are patented by the Salomon Ski Company really prove to be super comfortable and the most effective.
We are the exclusive source in North America for real SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles here at SkiWalking.com and the American Nordic Walking System. Not only do we offer 16 different lengths we are able to custom fit poles to any individual’s height/specs.
Skiers, Ski Resorts and Ski Rental shops do NOT use or promote cheap/flimsy collapsible poles – they all utilize quality one-piece poles in order to ensure a Perfect Fit.
Even Santa Claus has been spotted using our quality SWIX Nordic Walking Poles from Lillehammer, Norway.
Walking with poles is the best!
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Thursday, November 25, 2010
Nordic Walking Poles and Classes Come To True Blue University
Nordic Walking at Calvin College's Prince Conference Center
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network of Michigan hosted True Blue University Programs this past fall at Schoolcraft College in Livonia, at the Sarvis Center in Flint, Lansing Community College and at Calvin College’s Prince Conference Center.True Blue University is an educational event designed to help Blue Cross members learn about important topics like nutrition, Medicare, fitness and elder law. Participants had a variety of seminars to pick from and a diverse group of exhibitors were on hand too.
Free private and group Nordic Walking Classes were hosted by Pete Edwards, owner/founder, of WWW.SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System. Edwards and his company are based out of Glen Arbor, Michigan – in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Edwards is one of the few Nordic Walking Instructors that utilizes one-piece poles for all his classes. Edwards selects the perfect length one-piece poles for each participant. One-piece poles prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles. WWW.SKIWALKING.COM offers 16 different lengths of quality SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles.
At the first True Blue University event Edwards barely had time to set up his display because other exhibitors were so excited about his quality Nordic Walking Poles. Many participants found that Nordic Walking Poles really can turbo charge a typical walking campaign. The poles help to engage more muscle groups and assist in burning 20%-40% more calories than regular walking. Participants with knee, hip and/or back issues quickly discovered that the poles almost magically make joint pain go away. Individuals that are limited to a cane and/or walker discover that the poles radically improve balance, stability and gait.
Nordic Walking’s winning combination of improved posture, a unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action and shock absorbing benefits - helping many individuals to walk comfortably again. Nordic Walking Poles are helping individuals with balance issues, knee issues or new knees, hip issues or new hips, back issues (including those with rods in their back), weight issues, multiple sclerosis (MS), parkinson's (PD), neuropathy, arthritis, bursitis, scoliosis, lumbar stenosis, fibromyalgia, post polio, osteoporosis, stroke recovery, cancer recovery and other limitations to walking. Nordic Walking poles are helping thousands of Americans get off the couch, successfully get outside, start walking safely and effectively launch much needed walking campaigns.
Edwards especially enjoys hosting free Nordic Walking clinics for MS, Parkinson’s and Diabetes support groups, plus Wounded Warrior Programs too. Edwards and his Michigan company have donated hundreds of quality one-piece poles to Wounded Warrior Programs at Walter Reed, Fort Lewis/Madigan/McChord, Fort Carson, Vicenza in Italy and Kaiserslautern Military Community in Germany.
Edwards has been coaching runners and skiers for over 25 years. He has been teaching Nordic Walking Classes for 6 years and has hosted hundreds of Nordic Walking Classes. He ships SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles out of Glen Arbor every day.
Walking with poles is the best!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Can a Walking Workout Really Be as Good or Better than Running?
Great article about Nordic Walking from the Huntington Post! Malin is one of the top Nordic Walking professionals in the North America.
My approach to teaching Nordic Walking is combining the benefits of Ski Walking with poles, Hill Bounding with poles, the European Nordic Walking method and then a. Our teaching system proves to be safe and effective regardless of age or fitness levels. At SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System there are three basic levels - casual Level 1 burns about 20% more calories than regular walking, Level 2 includes a full arm extension and burns 30% more calories than regular walking and Level 3 includes the full arm extension and pressure into the cradle of our comfortable patented Nordic Walking straps. If your Nordic Walking Poles aren't equipped with Salomon patented Nordic Walking Straps you are really missing out.
There is a level of intensity and exertion that will work effectively for any age and any fitness level - including those with balance, stability and gait issues. Nordic Walking is no longer just for expert skiers deprived of snow.
I especially love hosting Nordic Walking classes for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s (PD) and Diabetes support groups, plus Wounded Warrior Programs. SKIWALKING.COM and The American Nordic Walking System have donated hundreds of pairs of poles to Wounded Warrior Programs.
I also exclusively promote and recommend durable and user-friendly one-piece poles that are sized correctly - we offer 16 different lengths. Our one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles prove to be safer, lighter and much stronger than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles.
Runners and walkers can both benefit from using real Nordic Walking Poles - burning more calories, working more muscle groups and radically reducing the stress to the weight bearing joints. I have been coaching runners and skiers for over 25 years and walking with poles has provided an effective warm-up for my athletes and also been an ideal option for anyone suffering from shin splints, runners knee or other stress related injuries.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Walking and running with poles is the best!
My approach to teaching Nordic Walking is combining the benefits of Ski Walking with poles, Hill Bounding with poles, the European Nordic Walking method and then a. Our teaching system proves to be safe and effective regardless of age or fitness levels. At SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System there are three basic levels - casual Level 1 burns about 20% more calories than regular walking, Level 2 includes a full arm extension and burns 30% more calories than regular walking and Level 3 includes the full arm extension and pressure into the cradle of our comfortable patented Nordic Walking straps. If your Nordic Walking Poles aren't equipped with Salomon patented Nordic Walking Straps you are really missing out.
There is a level of intensity and exertion that will work effectively for any age and any fitness level - including those with balance, stability and gait issues. Nordic Walking is no longer just for expert skiers deprived of snow.
I especially love hosting Nordic Walking classes for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s (PD) and Diabetes support groups, plus Wounded Warrior Programs. SKIWALKING.COM and The American Nordic Walking System have donated hundreds of pairs of poles to Wounded Warrior Programs.
I also exclusively promote and recommend durable and user-friendly one-piece poles that are sized correctly - we offer 16 different lengths. Our one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles prove to be safer, lighter and much stronger than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles.
Runners and walkers can both benefit from using real Nordic Walking Poles - burning more calories, working more muscle groups and radically reducing the stress to the weight bearing joints. I have been coaching runners and skiers for over 25 years and walking with poles has provided an effective warm-up for my athletes and also been an ideal option for anyone suffering from shin splints, runners knee or other stress related injuries.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Walking and running with poles is the best!
Monday, November 8, 2010
2010 Glen Lake Turkey Trot Welcomes Runners, Walkers, Jogging Stollers and Nordic Walking Poles
Costumes Are Optional, But A Tradition For The Glen Lake Varsity Cross Country Team
The 2010 Glen Lake Turkey Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk are all about celebrating health and fitness out on beautiful wooded trails. Runners, walkers, jogging strollers and Nordic walking poles are welcome. The Turkey Trot is being held on Saturday, November 13th - 10am start time.
Over a dozen turkeys and other prizes will be randomly drawn and awarded at the conclusion of the event.
The Turkey Trot is a fundraiser for the Glen Lake Cross Country Running Program.
There will be race day registration. Turkey Trot applications can be picked up at the Glen Lake Athletic Office or in Traverse City at either of the Running Fit Locations - downtown or on south airport.
Runners, walkers, Nordic walkers and Nordic runners of all ages welcome.
For more info please contact Coach Schut
by phone: 231-334-3061 ext. 405
by email: schutr@glenlake.k12.mi.us
The 2010 Glen Lake Turkey Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk are all about celebrating health and fitness out on beautiful wooded trails. Runners, walkers, jogging strollers and Nordic walking poles are welcome. The Turkey Trot is being held on Saturday, November 13th - 10am start time.
Over a dozen turkeys and other prizes will be randomly drawn and awarded at the conclusion of the event.
The Turkey Trot is a fundraiser for the Glen Lake Cross Country Running Program.
There will be race day registration. Turkey Trot applications can be picked up at the Glen Lake Athletic Office or in Traverse City at either of the Running Fit Locations - downtown or on south airport.
Runners, walkers, Nordic walkers and Nordic runners of all ages welcome.
For more info please contact Coach Schut
by phone: 231-334-3061 ext. 405
by email: schutr@glenlake.k12.mi.us
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Tuesday, November 2, 2010
World Nordic Walking Day A Total Success
We had perfect weather for our Nordic Walking adventures on World Nordic Walking Day - October 10th.
I was able to offer free Nordic Walking Lessons in town (Glen Arbor, Michigan) and lead free Nordic Walking Tours into the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Our favorite routes are the beautiful hilly and wooded trails behind town up on Alligator Hill. On sunny days like Oct. 10th the #1 pick is always Devils Hole high up on the Sleeping Bear Dunes in a secrete location that only locals know about.
All participants in the free lessons and free tours received a free pair of demo poles for the day - real SWIX Nordic Walking Poles. I only teach lessons with one-piece Nordic Walking Poles that are sized correctly. I carry 16 different lengths so sizing is easy and hassle free. I do not promote or recommend cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles. Seniors and individuals with balance issues should also avoid cheap/flimsy collapsible poles.
Our quality one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles are proven to be safer, lighter and much more durable than collapsible poles from China that tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse unexpectedly.
As a ski coach it only makes sense to use one-piece poles because cheap/flimsy collapsible poles couldn't cut it. Most of the cheap/flimsy collapsible poles are destined for the landfill.
Walking with Poles is the best!
I was able to offer free Nordic Walking Lessons in town (Glen Arbor, Michigan) and lead free Nordic Walking Tours into the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Our favorite routes are the beautiful hilly and wooded trails behind town up on Alligator Hill. On sunny days like Oct. 10th the #1 pick is always Devils Hole high up on the Sleeping Bear Dunes in a secrete location that only locals know about.
All participants in the free lessons and free tours received a free pair of demo poles for the day - real SWIX Nordic Walking Poles. I only teach lessons with one-piece Nordic Walking Poles that are sized correctly. I carry 16 different lengths so sizing is easy and hassle free. I do not promote or recommend cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles. Seniors and individuals with balance issues should also avoid cheap/flimsy collapsible poles.
Our quality one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles are proven to be safer, lighter and much more durable than collapsible poles from China that tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse unexpectedly.
As a ski coach it only makes sense to use one-piece poles because cheap/flimsy collapsible poles couldn't cut it. Most of the cheap/flimsy collapsible poles are destined for the landfill.
Walking with Poles is the best!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
World Nordic Walking Day Celebrated by the American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM
On Sunday, Oct. 10th, I’ll be providing free Nordic Walking Classes – group and private lessons here in Glen Arbor, Michigan at our Nordic Walking Headquarters. I’ll also be offering free guided Nordic Walking trips into the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Potential trips will go to Pyramid Point, Glen Haven, Alligator Hill and/or Devil’s Bowl. Flatter trails and less demanding trial options will also be offered. Durable and user-friendly one-piece Nordic Walking Poles will be provided at no charge during the lessons and the trips into the National Lakeshore - all individuals will receive the perfect length one-piece Nordic Walking Poles for their heights.
Over 8 million Europeans are walking with Nordic Walking Poles – in the cities (with rubber tips/asphalt paws on), out in the country and up in the mountains (rubber tips/paws off and exposing the durable carbide metal tips).
The INWA (International Nordic Walking Association) was formed 10 years ago and Nordic Walking enthusiasts from around the world will be celebrating “Nordic Walking Day”. EXEL Nordic Walking Poles out of Finland founded and funded the INWA for years. Unfortunately for many years the INWA refused to accept my membership with their organization because I was dealing with SWIX Nordic Walking Poles from Norway. EXEL did coin the term “Nordic Walking” and developed teaching methods and techniques that stood apart from other forms of hiking, trekking and fitness walking with poles. SWIX and EXEL poles are very similar, known for extreme quality and both are most respected in the Nordic ski racing community.
Here in North America http://www.skiwalking.com/ (The American Nordic Walking System) has been the leading supplier of SWIX and EXEL poles for years and is currently the exclusive source for all 16 lengths and is also the exclusive source for SWIX and EXEL rubber Nordic Walking tips/asphalt paws.
SWIX and EXEL have proven their quality in the Olympics and out on the World Cup. Both SWIX and EXEL are dedicated to the simple fact that one-piece Nordic Walking Poles are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles from China and Taiwan. Collapsible poles tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse unexpectedly or simply fail/break.
All of us here at http://www.skiwalking.com/ and the American Nordic Walking System are dedicated to this same simple fact about one-piece poles being superior to cheap/flimsy collapsibles. I’m a ski coach and it is a fact that collapsible poles are NEVER used for Nordic Skiing (cross country skiing), Roller Skiing or Nordic Blading (inline skating). Collapsible poles can’t take the stress. Skiers wouldn't use cheap/flimsy collapsible poles for the Ski Walking and Hill Bounding drills during the summer when deprived of snow - they only use and only recommend one-piece poles that are sized correctly.
Have FUN on World Nordic Walking Day!
Over 8 million Europeans are walking with Nordic Walking Poles – in the cities (with rubber tips/asphalt paws on), out in the country and up in the mountains (rubber tips/paws off and exposing the durable carbide metal tips).
The INWA (International Nordic Walking Association) was formed 10 years ago and Nordic Walking enthusiasts from around the world will be celebrating “Nordic Walking Day”. EXEL Nordic Walking Poles out of Finland founded and funded the INWA for years. Unfortunately for many years the INWA refused to accept my membership with their organization because I was dealing with SWIX Nordic Walking Poles from Norway. EXEL did coin the term “Nordic Walking” and developed teaching methods and techniques that stood apart from other forms of hiking, trekking and fitness walking with poles. SWIX and EXEL poles are very similar, known for extreme quality and both are most respected in the Nordic ski racing community.
Here in North America http://www.skiwalking.com/ (The American Nordic Walking System) has been the leading supplier of SWIX and EXEL poles for years and is currently the exclusive source for all 16 lengths and is also the exclusive source for SWIX and EXEL rubber Nordic Walking tips/asphalt paws.
SWIX and EXEL have proven their quality in the Olympics and out on the World Cup. Both SWIX and EXEL are dedicated to the simple fact that one-piece Nordic Walking Poles are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles from China and Taiwan. Collapsible poles tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse unexpectedly or simply fail/break.
All of us here at http://www.skiwalking.com/ and the American Nordic Walking System are dedicated to this same simple fact about one-piece poles being superior to cheap/flimsy collapsibles. I’m a ski coach and it is a fact that collapsible poles are NEVER used for Nordic Skiing (cross country skiing), Roller Skiing or Nordic Blading (inline skating). Collapsible poles can’t take the stress. Skiers wouldn't use cheap/flimsy collapsible poles for the Ski Walking and Hill Bounding drills during the summer when deprived of snow - they only use and only recommend one-piece poles that are sized correctly.
Have FUN on World Nordic Walking Day!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Nordic Walking Poles - NOT All Nordic Walking Tips/Paws Are Created Equal
Nordic Walking has already swept across Europe and over 8 million Europeans are benefiting everyday from the use of Nordic Walking Poles – in the cities with the removable rubber tips/paws on, out in the country (rubber tips off) and up in the mountains (rubber tips off).
Nordic Walking has yet to be enthusiastically embraced here in the USA . However, those of us that are aware of the many benefits of using Nordic Walking Poles couldn’t be more enthusiastic about this wonderful fitness activity with Scandinavian roots. Unfortunately the US market is being flooded by cheap and flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles and rubber tips from China. Many of these poles are equipped with a thin rubber or plastic cap (basically to prevent the metal tips from poking a hole in your car seat or luggage), but sold as Nordic Walking Tips and barely last a mile or two. Some of these cheap twist-lock and flip-lock poles come with what look like authentic Nordic Walking Tip/Asphalt Rubber Tips, but prove to wear out with-in a week or two. I have had numerous students in my Nordic Classes show me the short life span of their tips. They always appreciate the improved grip and cushion of the SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Tips/Asphalt Paws equipped on my Nordic Walking Poles.
I love Nordic Walking and cross country skiing because they are silent sports. Cheap and flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly. And when the rubber tips wear out on these cheap poles the clank of the metal tip is annoying as well. I like to do my skiing and Nordic Walking in stealth mode and couldn’t tolerate the rattle, clicking and vibration coming from cheap poles from China.
Every day we hear from new customers who opted to purchase cheap twist-lock or flip-lock poles from other sources by mistake, or received them as gifts, and found that the tips wore out quickly and the twist-locks and/or flip-locks were noisy, uncooperative and annoying. New customers tell us that their original poles from EMS, REI, MC Sports, Cabala’s, L.L. Bean, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sports Authority, Target, Wal-Mart, misc. websites, …… did not perform as they had hoped and ended up being returned or sent directly to the landfill.
A recent email from a happy customer reads like this about her old cheap poles:
Thanks for your help Pete. I poked through the Sportline pole tip in less than 20 miles. I like to walk at least 5 miles a day with the poles. The Sportline poles rattle quite a bit, too.
Thanks for the quick reply and the info.
Lynne
We have received feedback from hundreds of individuals that had problems with the cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles from China that they didn’t get from us. Every day we receive happy customer feedback from current customers in regard to their quality and hassle-free one-piece poles. Our 100% positive customer satisfaction ratings indicate that we are doing something right by promoting user-friendly one-piece poles that are sized correctly to each individual’s height and backed with a Perfect Length Guarantee. Quality one-piece poles that are sized correctly prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap collapsible poles from China.
And when it comes to Nordic Walking tips/asphalt paws we always recommend EXEL, LEKI and SWIX Tips.
When looking for Nordic Walking Poles here are some questions you should ask the seller:
1. Are these poles made in China?
* don’t get scammed by cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles. If the retailer doesn't know where the poles are made assume they are the cheap twist-lock and/or flip-lock poles from China.
2. Are these poles equipped with Salomon Patented Nordic Walking Straps?
* you can’t beat the comfortable and patented Nordic Walking Straps from the Salomon Ski Company
3. Do you carry replacement tips incase I misplace one or wear them out?
* many of the cheap Nordic Walking Poles from China do not have replacement parts available. A reputable retailer will size you into the correct length poles and have a stash of rubber Nordic Walking Tips/Paws.
4. How many different lengths of poles do you carry?
* seniors and individuals with balance issues should never get conned into cheap 2-piece or 3-piece collapsible poles that may collapse unexpectedly. Demand quality one-piece poles that are sized correctly.
At the American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM we carry 14 different lengths and can custom build poles for those over 6’ 6” at no extra charge – ensuring a perfect fit that is backed up by a Perfect Length Guarantee!
For additional info about quality Nordic Walking Poles and natural rubber Nordic Walking Tips/Asphalt Paws contact:
Swix Nordic Walking: http://www.swixnordicwalking.com/
Exel Nordic Walking: http://www.exelnordicwalking.com/
Nordic Walking Blog: http://nordicwalkingusa.blogspot.com/
Nordic Walking Blog USA: http://nordicwalkingusa.wordpress.com/
Nordic Walking Blog: http://nordicwalking.typepad.com/
Nordic Sports Blog: http://nordicsportsusa.blogspot.com/
Email: getfit@SkiWalking.com
Toll Free: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255
Nordic Walking has yet to be enthusiastically embraced here in the USA . However, those of us that are aware of the many benefits of using Nordic Walking Poles couldn’t be more enthusiastic about this wonderful fitness activity with Scandinavian roots. Unfortunately the US market is being flooded by cheap and flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles and rubber tips from China. Many of these poles are equipped with a thin rubber or plastic cap (basically to prevent the metal tips from poking a hole in your car seat or luggage), but sold as Nordic Walking Tips and barely last a mile or two. Some of these cheap twist-lock and flip-lock poles come with what look like authentic Nordic Walking Tip/Asphalt Rubber Tips, but prove to wear out with-in a week or two. I have had numerous students in my Nordic Classes show me the short life span of their tips. They always appreciate the improved grip and cushion of the SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Tips/Asphalt Paws equipped on my Nordic Walking Poles.
I love Nordic Walking and cross country skiing because they are silent sports. Cheap and flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly. And when the rubber tips wear out on these cheap poles the clank of the metal tip is annoying as well. I like to do my skiing and Nordic Walking in stealth mode and couldn’t tolerate the rattle, clicking and vibration coming from cheap poles from China.
Every day we hear from new customers who opted to purchase cheap twist-lock or flip-lock poles from other sources by mistake, or received them as gifts, and found that the tips wore out quickly and the twist-locks and/or flip-locks were noisy, uncooperative and annoying. New customers tell us that their original poles from EMS, REI, MC Sports, Cabala’s, L.L. Bean, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sports Authority, Target, Wal-Mart, misc. websites, …… did not perform as they had hoped and ended up being returned or sent directly to the landfill.
A recent email from a happy customer reads like this about her old cheap poles:
Thanks for your help Pete. I poked through the Sportline pole tip in less than 20 miles. I like to walk at least 5 miles a day with the poles. The Sportline poles rattle quite a bit, too.
Thanks for the quick reply and the info.
Lynne
We have received feedback from hundreds of individuals that had problems with the cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles from China that they didn’t get from us. Every day we receive happy customer feedback from current customers in regard to their quality and hassle-free one-piece poles. Our 100% positive customer satisfaction ratings indicate that we are doing something right by promoting user-friendly one-piece poles that are sized correctly to each individual’s height and backed with a Perfect Length Guarantee. Quality one-piece poles that are sized correctly prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap collapsible poles from China.
And when it comes to Nordic Walking tips/asphalt paws we always recommend EXEL, LEKI and SWIX Tips.
When looking for Nordic Walking Poles here are some questions you should ask the seller:
1. Are these poles made in China?
* don’t get scammed by cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles. If the retailer doesn't know where the poles are made assume they are the cheap twist-lock and/or flip-lock poles from China.
2. Are these poles equipped with Salomon Patented Nordic Walking Straps?
* you can’t beat the comfortable and patented Nordic Walking Straps from the Salomon Ski Company
3. Do you carry replacement tips incase I misplace one or wear them out?
* many of the cheap Nordic Walking Poles from China do not have replacement parts available. A reputable retailer will size you into the correct length poles and have a stash of rubber Nordic Walking Tips/Paws.
4. How many different lengths of poles do you carry?
* seniors and individuals with balance issues should never get conned into cheap 2-piece or 3-piece collapsible poles that may collapse unexpectedly. Demand quality one-piece poles that are sized correctly.
At the American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM we carry 14 different lengths and can custom build poles for those over 6’ 6” at no extra charge – ensuring a perfect fit that is backed up by a Perfect Length Guarantee!
For additional info about quality Nordic Walking Poles and natural rubber Nordic Walking Tips/Asphalt Paws contact:
Swix Nordic Walking: http://www.swixnordicwalking.com/
Exel Nordic Walking: http://www.exelnordicwalking.com/
Nordic Walking Blog: http://nordicwalkingusa.blogspot.com/
Nordic Walking Blog USA: http://nordicwalkingusa.wordpress.com/
Nordic Walking Blog: http://nordicwalking.typepad.com/
Nordic Sports Blog: http://nordicsportsusa.blogspot.com/
Email: getfit@SkiWalking.com
Toll Free: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Nordic Walking Classes Offered During Annual Hagerty Employee Wellness Fair
For the third year in a row free Nordic Ski Walking Clinics were made available to employees of Hagerty Insurance (the industry leader in antique car and antique boot insurance) during Hagerty’s annual Employee Wellness Fair.
Dozens of health and fitness providers provided testing, screening and suggestions for a healthier lifestyle during the Employee Wellness Fair. Free Nordic Walking Instruction and the free use of REAL Nordic Walking Poles was provided by SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System. ALL 14 lengths were available to accommodate the heights of all individuals – more lengths than any other Nordic Walking Company in North America.
Perfect length poles help us to automatically walk with a super straight back - better walking posture is biomechanically a good thing. This improved walking posture when combined with the unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action of walking with poles radically reduces the stress to the shins, knees, hips and back. Nordic Walking is low impact and yet provides a highly effective workout - burning more calories and working more muscle groups than regular walking.
All of the participants in the Nordic Walking Classes commented that they could feel the automatic posture improvement when walking with the correct length poles. Many immediately noticed that more muscle groups were involved while walking with poles – much more so than regular walking.
SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System are dedicated to the simple fact that quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles from SWIX and EXEL are far superior to cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and/or flip-lock poles flooding the market from China. Numerous participants in the Nordic Walking Classes commented on their dislike of their telescoping/collapsible yard tools and/or adjustable walking poles that proved to be a hassle. The one-piece Nordic Walking Poles provided for the lessons and for demo proved to be lighter, simpler and much more user-friendly than cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock poles that tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly.
Hagerty Insurance employees appeared to enjoy and benefit from the Wellness Fair. Not only does Hagerty Insurance lead the industry in collector car and collector boat insurance, they are a leader in the “employee health” arena as well. In addition to hosting the Annual Employee Wellness Fair, Hagerty Insurance provides healthy activities and incentives to their valued employees all year round. And then there is Hagerty University, a corporate university that provides over 25 training classes for employees. One of Hagerty Insurance’s trademarks is their commitment to hiring great people and inspiring them to do their best! When many Michigan businesses are struggling it is inspiring to see such a success story.
For additional information about Hagerty Insurance check out their website: http://www.hagerty.com/
For more info about Nordic Walking Poles and the American Nordic Walking System please go to: http://www.skiwalking.com/
Toll Free #: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255
Email: GETFIT@SKIWALKING.COM
Dozens of health and fitness providers provided testing, screening and suggestions for a healthier lifestyle during the Employee Wellness Fair. Free Nordic Walking Instruction and the free use of REAL Nordic Walking Poles was provided by SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System. ALL 14 lengths were available to accommodate the heights of all individuals – more lengths than any other Nordic Walking Company in North America.
Perfect length poles help us to automatically walk with a super straight back - better walking posture is biomechanically a good thing. This improved walking posture when combined with the unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action of walking with poles radically reduces the stress to the shins, knees, hips and back. Nordic Walking is low impact and yet provides a highly effective workout - burning more calories and working more muscle groups than regular walking.
All of the participants in the Nordic Walking Classes commented that they could feel the automatic posture improvement when walking with the correct length poles. Many immediately noticed that more muscle groups were involved while walking with poles – much more so than regular walking.
SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System are dedicated to the simple fact that quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles from SWIX and EXEL are far superior to cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and/or flip-lock poles flooding the market from China. Numerous participants in the Nordic Walking Classes commented on their dislike of their telescoping/collapsible yard tools and/or adjustable walking poles that proved to be a hassle. The one-piece Nordic Walking Poles provided for the lessons and for demo proved to be lighter, simpler and much more user-friendly than cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock poles that tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly.
Hagerty Insurance employees appeared to enjoy and benefit from the Wellness Fair. Not only does Hagerty Insurance lead the industry in collector car and collector boat insurance, they are a leader in the “employee health” arena as well. In addition to hosting the Annual Employee Wellness Fair, Hagerty Insurance provides healthy activities and incentives to their valued employees all year round. And then there is Hagerty University, a corporate university that provides over 25 training classes for employees. One of Hagerty Insurance’s trademarks is their commitment to hiring great people and inspiring them to do their best! When many Michigan businesses are struggling it is inspiring to see such a success story.
For additional information about Hagerty Insurance check out their website: http://www.hagerty.com/
For more info about Nordic Walking Poles and the American Nordic Walking System please go to: http://www.skiwalking.com/
Toll Free #: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255
Email: GETFIT@SKIWALKING.COM
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
SWIX Ski Poles In The Olympics and Ideal For Nordic Walking In Your Neighborhood
2010 U.S. OLYMPIC CROSS COUNTRY SKI TEAM - 9 of 11 Athletes Use Swix Ski Poles
SWIX Ski Racing Poles dominated at USA Cross Country Ski Nationals. And 9 out of 11 members of the USA Olympic Ski Team use SWIX Ski Racing Poles.
USA Olympic Cross Country Ski Team Members:
Morgan Arritola, Ketchum, ID, SWIX
Holly Brooks, Anchorage, AK, SWIX
Caitlin Compton, Minneapolis, SWIX
Kris Freeman, Andover, NH, SWIX
Simi Hamilton, Andover, NH, SWIX
Torin Koos, Leavenworth, EXEL
Garrott Kuzzy, Minneapolis, SWIX
Andy Newell, Shaftsbury, VT, SWIX
Kikkan Randall, Anchorage, SWIX
James Southam, Anchorage, SWIX
Liz Stephen, Montpelier, VT, ONEWAY
All of these skiers have confidence in their quality one-piece poles. Their one-piece high tech poles are equipped with comfortable and highly effective fingerless glove type straps - patented by the Salomon Ski Company. Retail cost for these some of these quality poles: $399.95 per pair.
At SKIWALKING.COM the American Nordic Walking System we offer quality SWIX Nordic Walking Poles equipped with comfortable fingerless glove type straps, removable rubber tips/asphalt paws for pounding the pavement and durable carbide metal tips for off-road, the beach, snow and ice. The straps are also patented by the Salomon Ski Company. Retail cost: $69.95 per pair and a free Nordic Walking DVD is included. A Perfect Length Guarantee is also included. There are 14 different lengths of these SWIX Nordic Walking Poles available, more lengths than any other retailer in North America. Our customer satisfaction rating is 100% positive!
Skiers know that one-piece poles are lighter and much more durable than flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles. And when it comes to Nordic Walking, one-piece poles prove to be safer, lighter and much more user-friendly than cheap twist-lock and flip-lock poles.
I been coaching skiers for over 25 year and have never coached a skier that used adjustable length/collapsible poles. Skiers use one-piece poles. Ski Rental Shops don't utilize flimsy 2-piece poles either. Adjustable poles sound tempting in that you can adjust the length and collapse them down, but they are not as dependable as one-piece poles. Ajustable length/collapsible poles are also heavier than one-piece poles.
The comfortable and effective straps on my SWIX ski poles are identical to the straps on my Nordic Walking Poles. I coach skiers during the winter and teach Nordic Walking year-round. I have tremendous confidence in my poles. My one-piece SWIX poles are proven to be safer, lighter and much more durable than flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock poles that often vibrate, rattle and/or collapse unexpectedly.
The American Nordic Walking System and SWIX Nordic Walking Poles are ideal for ALL ages and ALL fitness levels. They are user-friendly in the city and out on the trail anytime of year. SWIX Nordic Walking Poles prove superior for casual walking, hiking and trekking too. When using the Perfect Length Poles they help us to automatically walk with a super straight back - better walking posture is biomechanically a good thing. This improved walking posture when combined with the unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action of walking with poles radically reduces the stress to the shins, knees, hips and back. Nordic Walking is low impact and yet provides a highly effective workout - burning more calories and working more muscle groups than regular walking.
USA Olympic Team Members Garrott Kuzzy and Simi Hamilton are both graduates of Middlebury College and captains of the Middlebury Ski Team. My daughter Cassidy Edwards is also a recent graduate and former captain of the Middlebury Ski Team. She had the opportuntiy to ski with both Garrott and Simi at Middlebury, on the college carnival circuit and at NCAAs.
Here is a link to the US Ski Team: http://www.usskiteam.com/crosscountry
For information about SWIX Ski Racing Poles: http://www.swixsport.com/eway/default.aspx?pid=278&trg=MainContent_6179&MainContent_6179=6117:0:24,2656&MainPage_6117=6546:38043
Nordic Walking With Neuropathy -
REAL Nordic Walking Poles Radically Improve Balance and Stability!
REAL Nordic Walking Poles Radically Improve Balance and Stability!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Nordic Walking and the Sports Medicine Connection
Sure, walking with ski poles and trekking poles can prove beneficial, but real Nordic Walking Poles that are sized correctly can help to radically reduce the stress to the weight bearing joints (knees, hips and back) and at the same time improve balance and stability. Nordic Walking poles can also help to burn 20% - 40% more calories than regular walking.
After hosting numerous Nordic Walking in-service programs for doctors and PT’s, SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System has had the opportunity to introduce Nordic Walking to hospitals, physical therapy locations and sports med facilities all across the USA. And in all of the inservice programs we have utilized user-friendly one-piece poles sized correctly to each participant's height. These durable one-piece poles are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap twist-lock and flip-lock adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles from China.
A recent Nordic Walking/Sports Med article was posted at: http://www.sportmedbc.com/SportMedBlog/?p=630
Nordic Walking’s winning combination of improved posture, a unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action and shock absorbing benefits - helping many individuals to walk comfortably again. Nordic Walking Poles are helping individuals with balance issues, knee issues or new knees, hip issues or new hips, back issues (including those with rods in their back), weight issues, multiple sclerosis (MS), parkinson's (PD), neuropathy, arthritis, bursitis, scoliosis, lumbar stenosis, fibromyalgia, post polio, osteoporosis, stroke recovery, cancer recovery and other limitations to walking. Nordic Walking poles are helping thousands of Americans get off the couch, successfully get outside, start walking safely and effectively launch much needed walking campaigns.
Skiers use one-piece poles that are sized correctly. And as a ski coach that makes sense to me. Seniors and individual's with balance issues should especially avoid cheap collapsible poles. Don't get scammed by cheap twist-lock and/or flip-lock poles from China.
Walking with poles is the best!
Labels:
doctors,
fitness,
Multiple Sclerosis,
nordic walking,
physical therapists,
poles,
pt’s,
scoliosis,
ski,
skiers,
sports med,
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