Nordic Walking originates back to the 1930’s. Introduced in Finland as an off-season training method used by competitive cross-country skiers, Nordic Walking was undertaken on long hiking expeditions, hill marches and expeditions.
Nordic Walking as a recreational physical activity for all and originates from Finland in the 1980’s. In 1997, Nordic Walking was launched in conjunction with the Finnish Central Association for recreational Sports and Outdoor activities.
Several institutes specialising in health and sport as well as several sport organisations advocate Nordic Walking as a rewarding, popular form of fitness. With numerous benefits and a growing research base supporting it, Nordic Walking continues to develop, promoting a healthy, active lifestyle in an enjoyable way.
The Nordic Walking association was established in 2000, and quickly paved the way for the introduction and implementation of this activity globally. By the end of 2004, the estimated population of Nordic Walkers had reached a figure of 3.5 million.
Nordic Walking is one of the fastest growing recreational fitness sports in the world. In Scandinavia and Continental Europe alone, the number of active Nordic Walkers has increases overwhelmingly and is still growing.
