Very popular in Scandinavian countries, Nordic walking is an accelerated walk derived from cross-country skiing. More intense than hiking and less traumatic for the joints than running, Nordic walking has the advantage of getting you outside as soon as the weather is fine... but also of toning up the whole body while clearing the mind!

By Magali Duqué,Fifty &amp

Its benefits on the body and mind 

Walking with sticks allows you to strengthen all the muscles of the body. In fact, in addition to the legs and buttocks, we work the muscles of the arms and back as well as the transverses. It is also a good cardio exercise since we move at an average speed of 6km/h.

On the other hand, this sport is also excellent anti-stress. In the whirlwind of our lives, there is nothing like letting your mind wander in the middle of nature... At the bend of a green space in the center of the city, in the park of a castle or in the heart of a nature reserve, we find our energy while recharging your batteries. While you feel your body warming up, your mind is enchanted by the scents of the undergrowth. Step by step, we breathe. We oxygenate ourselves.

A sport accessible to all 

It's as easy as pie, the movements are coordinated naturally. Here, no prior learning or level required: instinctively, you put the stick opposite the foot on the ground.

Finally, and for once, this sport will not cost (much) more than a bit of motivation. Indeed, nature is graciously open to us and the equipment is limited to a pair of sneakers (or walking shoes). For starters, ski poles lying around in the back of a closet can do the trick. But, if and only if you get the hang of it, we would advise you to "invest" in walking poles that provide a better grip and cushion the shocks.

Our advice:Beginners benefit from joining a group or getting some coaching to keep the momentum going (so that your 1st ^{time isn't just a Sunday walk!). Too easy? Want a new challenge? Try Nordic walking in the dunes, the sand will make the activity even more physical.}

So, are you ready to take the plunge?