You may have seen people walking and holding what look like ski poles.
Called Nordic walking poles, these relatives of cross-country ski poles are touted for providing benefits that, according to Dr. Gerred Popejoy, a retired chiropractor and Laguna Woods resident, walking alone does not provide – or at least far more slowly.
The poles can improve walkers’ posture and balance, Popejoy says, and provide an upper body workout as the arms push the body forward with the poles. They also add leverage for those who might find hills difficult to conquer.
Popejoy calls the exercise beneficial for both body and mind.
“Pole walking will lead to increased heart rates and better circulation along with, in the long run, self-regulation for the brain to calm down and new brain cells through an increased production of dopamine – hence an added improvement of mood,” he said.
Recently, Popejoy introduced his brand of Nordic walking poles to an enthusiastic crowd at Laguna Woods’ Clubhouse 1.
“Nordic poles are more effective than riding a bicycle. Bike riding engages only 50 to 60 percent of body muscles. When I use my poles, I feel like I go into four-wheel drive,” he said while pushing himself forward across the room. “It is a full-body exercise.”
Popejoy demonstrated how to properly walk with the poles and how to position them so that their rubber feet don’t bounce. There are also attachments – tips and boots and such – that make them suitable for walking on surfaces from grass to sand, to, yes, snow.
He demonstrated how the poles can be incorporated into stretching and resistance exercises, with the audience eagerly participating with loaner poles. Sturdy and easy to adjust, the poles can support up to 500 pounds.
Part of the poles’ appeal to seniors is that they can be used outdoors and indoors on any surface, and walking sessions can be divided into short intervals, Popejoy said.
Laguna Woods residents Susan Campbell, 80, and Jules Anderson, 70, brought their own poles to the presentation.
Anderson owns three sets, including two custom made for her height.
“I have walked three to five miles a day for the last four years. I’ve lost 50 pounds,” she said. “The poles add to your ability. Better to use cheap poles at first than nothing – just get started.”
She added that the glove attachments on better poles take pressure off users’ wrists and recommends lightweight carbon poles.
The gathering at Clubhouse 1 was initiated by Leslie Carretti, who leads the Active Wellness Club and the Wellness in the Woods Club. She too cited the benefits of pole walking.
“Pole walking improves not only posture and balance but also memory function,” she said.
Popejoy hopes to form a Nordic pole walking club in Laguna Woods.
“We have so many beautiful trails and terrains, it’s only natural,” he said.
