Nordic walking

It was different than I expected. On a cold, damp, windy day in May a group of us met by the lakeshore trail to attend a clinic on Nordic walking. Our leader gave us some background on the activity. Cross country skiers use this form of walking with poles as training during the off-season. It is a cross between cross-country skiing and power walking. It adds an upper body component to a fitness walk. After being outfitted with the appropriate length of pole, we practised using the poles. The important action is to push off the pole when it is behind you. My friend and I thought you pushed off when they were in front so we really had to concentrate on the action to get it right. After a few tries and some pointers from the instructor, we headed down the trail. I guess it seemed a bit odd to others along the trail. People couldn't help but make a reference to snow in a joking manner. It was so nasty that morning, it could have snowed! Well, I think I might invest in a set of poles. Although it seemed awkward, I think I can get the hang of it. Nordic walking works more muscles and is supposed to burn 40% more calories. Now I just have to decide whether to get LEKI or EXEL poles.

If you want to learn more about Nordic walking there are lots of sites with information. Here's one you can try:
http://intraspec.ca/nordic-walking.php/
It has links to LEKI and EXEL as well.

Got in a 10k walk Sunday with my sister, Patti and a friend, Laura. Enjoyed a 6k walk with Ian on Victoria Day under a cloudless sky.

Congratulations to Cam and Brenda on the completion of their first half-marathon (running) in Victoria, BC!

Taking a new tact.

I've always loved a good walk. It's how I got around before I had a car of my own. I remember as a child I did not just want to walk, but I wanted to walk quickly. If I were with one of my younger brothers I would accept the challenge to see who could walk faster. Often I could. This particular brother had a nickname that indicated he was very quick. It felt good to either beat him or keep the same pace. I don't know if I could do that today but I still keep a pretty good pace. At first I walked out of necessity and then I walked just because I loved it. Later on I took it up seriously as a fitness task.They always say that you should choose a workout you know you will enjoy. A couple of successful half-marathons later, I am hooked. This weekend I am going to try Nordic walking. There is a clinic on Saturday morning. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Oh, and the fins. That's how I get around under water. My husband has been snorkelling for many years but I only took it up a few years ago. Although I am not great at it, I really enjoy the activity. Mostly because of the other worldliness. Look for our photos and I'll keep you informed of some great and not so great spots to enjoy.

Walk on.