Nordic Sports Blog

Olympic Ski Star Lindsey Vonn Promotes Nordic Walking

2011-11-26T18:49:00.000-05:00

The 1st Americans to embrace Nordic Ski Walking have typically been skiers. When deprived of snow skiers often grab their poles for hikes, ski walking and hill bounding.

When celebrity athletes endorse a virtually unknown and misunderstood fitness activity like Nordic Walking only good things can result. Awareness and curiosity are good things. And an enthusiastic celebrity endorsement is fantastic. When more Americans realize the many wonderful health benefits of Nordic Walking this fitness activity will take off here like it already has in Europe. Nordic Walking Poles often empower individuals to start walking taller, faster, longer and remain much more happy.

Typically skiers know that one-piece poles are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles from China. These collapsible poles tend to rattle, vibrate and often collapse unexpectedly. While one-piece poles that are sized correctly prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than collapsible poles equipped with twist-locks or flip-locks.

At WWW.SKIWALKING.COM we carry 16 different lengths of SWIX and EXEL one-piece Nordic Walking Poles. We also carry rubber replacement tips/asphalt paws for both SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles.

Roller Skiing and Nordic Walking

2011-11-22T22:09:00.001-05:00

I'm totally hooked on the Swenor Finstep Cap Classic Roller Skis. These super smooth roller skis even come with a slight Nordic camber. These roller skis are light years ahead of classis roller skis made of aluminum.

The Salomon S-LAB SKIATHLON is my favorite roller ski and cross country ski boots. WOW. Best boots ever. Even with my weird feet they all skied great right out of the box.

My favorite Nordic Walking Poles are the original SWIX VIP's from Lillehammer, Norway and made exclusively for us here at WWW.SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System. All of our SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles are equipped with durable metal tips and removable rubber tips/paws that act as shock absorbers and silencers on pavement.

And when it comes to roller skiing my favorite poles are my SWIX CT1's - equipped with special SWIX "road" ferrules (metal tips) that hold a sharp point even when pounding down the pavement.

The similarities between roller skiing and Nordic Walking are many. The most important however is the simple fact that durable one-piece poles that are sized correctly prove to be lighter, stronger and much more dependable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible poles that tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse unexpectedly. Skiers also use dependable one-piece poles while ski walking and hill bounding with poles - they would never considering heavy collapsible poles.

Skiers ski with one-piece poles because collapsible poles don't hold up and are a hassle. The same goes for hiking, trekking and Nordic Walking - one-piece poles will always prove to be superior to cheap/flimsy collapsible poles.

North America Nordic Opener – coming to Traverse City, Michigan, Saturday, Oct. 22nd

2011-10-21T12:21:00.000-04:00

The 1^st cross country ski race of the season in North America - A Michigan Cup Nordic Ski Race!

You don’t have to go to Australia to ski this time of year. The Vasa Ski Club and Brick Wheels invite you to welcome the upcoming ski season in style by skiing on Zamboni snow! That’s right – a ski trail will be created with snow from local ice rinks for first tracks in October! Also take advantage of hot deals on Nordic ski equipment at our inaugural cross country and telemark Ski Swap.

The local Vasa Ski Club (VSC) is partnering with Brick Wheels to host the Second Annual Nordic Fest on Saturday, October 22, 9 am–4 pm. The Fest includes on snow skiing, party with food, beverages and entertainment and a cross country Ski Swap including new and gently used equipment - skis, poles, bindings and boots. Brick Wheels will have new gear discounted too!

This Nordic Fest will take place at Brick Wheels. The event will be great fun, with something for everyone including the first ski race in North America for the 2011/2012 season. Racers will ski on an oval ski track constructed by the VSC.

Skiers from across the state will have a chance to participate in the first Michigan Cup Race of the season from 10am - Noon. $5 race fee will support VSC programs including the Junior Program and We Ski Program. The public is invited to ski for free on the snowy track from 12–7 pm. Enjoy the Vasa Ski Club Season Kick-off Party with food, beverages and music from 4–7 pm.

The weekend concludes on October 23 with a roller ski clinic led by the former Nordic coach of the University of Utah, Eli Brown at 11 am at Brick Wheels.

More details can be found below and at www.vasaskiclub.com and www.brickwheels.com , plus on the NordicSkiRacer web site: http://www.nordicskiracer.com

For SWIX Race Wax Recommendations: WWW.SWIXRACING.US

* photo credit: Pete Edwards, WWW.SKIWALKING.COM LLC and the American Nordic Walking System

WWW.SKIWALKING.COM LLC Relocates To Empire, Michigan

2011-08-10T23:47:00.000-04:00

The American Nordic Walking System and SKIWALKING.COM are North America's leading Nordic Walking Company. World Headquarters has moved from Glen Arbor, Michigan to Empire, Michigan.

As the exclusive North American retailer for SWIX out of Norway and EXEL out of Finland, SKIWALKING.COM ships quality Nordic Walking Poles world-wide. No other USA or Canadian retailer offers 16 different lengths of quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles. SKIWALKING.COM is also the exclusive North American source for SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking rubber tips/asphalt paws.

The American Nordic Walking System is the instructional branch of the company. Pete Edwards, the owner/founder, has hosted hundreds of Nordic Walking Classes and introduced thousands of Americans to Nordic Walking. His hands on experience, combined with over 25 years of coaching runners and skiers, has enabled him to clearly define a safe and effective Nordic Walking System that accommodates all ages and all fitness levels. The American Nordic Walking System is based on the best biomchanics of running and cross country skiing.

Unlike other Nordic Walking organizations the American Nordic Walking System does not recommend the use of cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible poles that tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse and/or fail altogether. As a ski coach Edwards knows that collapsible poles are not durable enough to handle the tough use of skiers. One-piece poles prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy collapsible poles. Edwards' SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles are tough enough to withstand the demands of skiing, but are ideal for hiking, trekking, ski walking and hill bounding - cheap twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles are not tough enough. Collapsible poles are just to cheap and flimsy for skiing and roller skiing. Seniors and individuals with balance should only use quality one-piece poles and avoid cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible poles.

The new home of the American Nordic Walking System and SKIWALKING.COM is located in the hills above the town of Empire. Empire is home to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore headquarters. All of Edwards' poles have gone through rigerous testing on the beaches and up on the sand dunes themselves.

Nordic Walking and Roller Skiing In The Moonlight

2010-11-22T01:23:00.004-05:00

It is deer season again and most of our favorite trails here in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are pretty much closed for a couple weeks - even our #1 trail up on Alligator Hill behind town.

My personal Nordic Walking campaign has been cut back due to the fact that I'm testing ski gear - Salomon Cross Country Ski Boots and Swenor Roller Skis. I'm still teaching a bunch of Nordic Walking Classes, but I can never get enough of Nordic Walking. Every night this past week the moon light, even on cloudy evenings, made the visibility pretty decent for a short Nordic Walk and a longer roller ski.

The Swenor Skate Elite Roller Skis come with a similar Nordic Camber and FASTER wheels to really get up to speed if you feel the need for speed. Total quality.

I've also been testing the following Salomon Cross Country Boots this past week:

Salomon S-LAB SKATE PRO, S-LAB SKIATHLON and S-LAB CLASSIC. WOW. Best boots ever. Even with my weird feet they all skied great right out of the box.

For poles I snagged a pair of SWIX CT1's - can't ever go wrong with a pair of CT1's.

Once we get snow I'm fired up to test the New Salomon S-LAB EQUIPE 10 SKATE SKIS and S-LAB EQUIPE 10 CLASSIC SKIS - they look great and should be fast, especially after all the SWIX base prep that I've done to them.

When teaching Nordic Walking Classes and out doing my own personal ski walking i'm always using my SWIX VIP Nordic Walking Poles - custom made for me over in Norway. They are very similar to my Alu Star classic and skate poles come winter.

My roller skiing poles and Nordic Walking poles have a lot in common. Both are made by SWIX and both are a durable and super strong one-piece design. Cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles. Skiers know and appreciate the fact that their one-piece poles are stronger, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy collapsible poles.

When it comes to Nordic Sports it is always best to go with one-piece non-collapsible poles that are sized correctly. The best straps for Nordic Sports are the fingerless glove type straps patented by the Salomon Ski Company and found on all of my walking poles and cross country ski poles.

My personal pole length:

125cm SWIX Poles for Nordic Walking

150cm SWIX Poles for Classic Cross Country Skiing

160cm SWIX Poles for Skate Cross Country Skiing

One-piece poles will always prove to be superior.

Cross Country Skiing on Saturday, Nov. 6th Followed By Nordic Walking Barefoot On The Sand Dunes Nov. 7th

2010-11-08T01:02:00.002-05:00

The first official day of cross country skiing here in Michigan’s Leelanau County was on Saturday, November 6th. The best snow was of course on the local golf course – located high up in the hills and away from Lake Michigan.

It is hard to believe that 24 hours later we were Ski Walking (Nordic Walking) barefoot high up on the Sleeping Bear Dunes at Devils Hole. Barefoot and in tee shirts.

We use our favorite SWIX one-piece poles for both skiing and Nordic walking. Our SWIX classic poles are longer than our SWIX Nordic walking poles. Both are equipped with comfortable fingerless glove type straps - patented by the Salomon Ski Company. Armpit length poles are ideal for classic cross country skiing. The ideal length for Nordic Walking Poles is when standing tall, strapped into the comfortable fingerless glove type straps and the poles are perpendicular to the ground your elbow should be at about 90 degrees and forearm parallel to the ground.

One-piece poles are ideal for both cross country skiing and Nordic walking. I’ve been coaching skiers for over 25 years and it is a simple fact of physics that one-piece poles that are sized correctly are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles that tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse or collapse/fail altogether.

My oldest daughter is a professional wilderness guide and she reports that the number equipment failure in the wilderness is collapsible poles.

At http://www.skiwalking.com/ and the American Nordic Walking System we offer 16 different lengths of quality one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles. We offer all customers a Perfect Length Guarantee, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and a LifeTime Breakage Guarantee.

Nordic Walking and Cross Country skiing are the best!

Nordic Walking Success At 2010 Senior Empower Day

2010-10-09T22:37:00.000-04:00

I had the opportunity to provide free Nordic walking classes and free Nordic walking pole demos during "Senior EmPower Day" in Lake City, Michigan last Friday. The 2010 "Senior EmPower Day" was held at Timber Wolf Lake Camp in Lake City, Michigan. The 600 acre wilderness setting was spectacular. Timber Wolf Lake Camp’s buildings look more like the lodges at Deer Valley Ski Resort than a camp. The conference facilities where ideal for indoor meetings and indoor Nordic Walking (rubber tips/asphalt paws on). The camp’s grounds were ideal for Nordic Walking outside.

The theme for this year's Senior EmPower Day was "The Power of Fun!" Attendees were reminded of the value of having "FUN" in their lives - the physical and emotional health benefits, the socialization opportunities and more. Senior Empower Day was hosted by the Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan (AAANM). And Nordic Walking Poles helped to provide a fun fitness twist to the event. Instruction was based on the American Nordic Walking System.

Nordic walking with the correct length poles really does improve posture and helps to minimize stress to the weight bearing joints. Walking with the perfect length poles and correct technique also helps to burn more calories because the arms are more actively engaged and help to work more muscle groups than regular walking.

I am dedicated to the simple fact that one-piece poles that are sized correctly are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock 2-piece and 3-piece poles that tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly. I warn seniors and individuals with balance issues to avoid cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible walking poles. Our one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic walking poles have been consistently receiving 100% positive satisfaction ratings.

Nordic walking poles can help to turbo charge any walking campaign. And now Nordic walking is no longer just for skiers deprived of snow during the summer. 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. Our SWIX and EXEL 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.

The American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM is North America's leading retailer and supplier of Nordic walking poles and is North America's exclusive source for quality one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic walking poles. We are also the exclusive supplier of SWIX Nordic Walking and EXEL Nordic Walking rubber tips/asphalt paws. Company headquarters: Glen Arbor, Michigan. We also donate real Nordic Walking Poles to Wounded Warrior Programs at Walter Reed, Fort Lewis/Madigan/McChord, Fort Carson, Vicenza in Italy and Kaiserslautern Military Community in Germany.

Nordic Walking is ideal for seniors and one-piece poles will help to ensure success because they are user-friendly, safer and stronger than collapsibles.

SWIX Nordic Ski Poles Win Prestigious Red Dot Award: Product Design

2010-09-02T19:58:00.009-04:00

The SWIX Triac cross country ski racing poles received the Red Dot Award for its innovative advances and technical improvements. Over 1,600 companies from 57 countries submitted entries. A total of 4,252 entries were presented to Red Dot’s internationally renowned expert jury. In the end only the very best from the field of the top-class participants were selected. The SWIX Triac cross country ski racing poles also had proven success in both the world cup and the Olympics. Especially notable are the fingerless glove type straps and the poles unique ability to accommodate a variety of basket sizes in order to adapt to varying snow conditions.

Link to the Red Dot website: http://en.red-dot.org/index.php?id=2878&tx_smtdbsearch_pi1%5Bswords%5D=swix

SWIX of Lillehammer, Norway makes the world’s best ski racing poles, the fastest ski wax and quality Nordic Walking Poles.

At SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System all of our Nordic Walking Poles are equipped with special fingerless glove type straps that prove to be comfortable and highly effective. All of our SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles are equipped with these real Nordic type straps – patented by the Salomon Ski Company.

Strapless poles, simple loop strap poles and velcro sling type straps are not as effective as real Nordic straps that allow the power to be transmitted into the cradle of the strap eliminating the need to squeeze the poles. These quality straps are ideal for all Nordic Sports – including Nordic Walking.

The award winning Triac Poles are a durable, lightweight one-piece design. Those active in Nordic Sports demand quality one-piece poles and avoid cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles that are heavier and tend to rattle, vibrate, gradually collapse and/or collapse unexpectedly. One-piece poles prove to be lighter, safer and much more durable than cheap/flimsy collapsible poles.

And when it comes to Nordic Walking one-piece poles prove to be lighter, safer and much more durable than collapsible 2-piece and 3-piece poles.

Swix continues to lead the charge providing award winning ski poles, fast ski wax and quality Nordic walking poles.

Nordic Walking Poles Welcome At The Port Oneida Barn To Barn Trail Run/Walk 5K

2010-08-29T14:54:00.006-04:00

The Port Oneida barn to barn trail run/walk will be unique in that the National Park Service (Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore) hasn’t approved a running/walk event in nearly two decades. This special running and walking event is a fundraiser for Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear (PHSB).

The 5K (3.1 miles) course be a single loop trail course. The loop should prove to be one of the most scenic in the country. The course is pure cross country. Runners should not expect to break the 5K personal records due the challenges provided by the footing and hills. Runners and walkers will be treated to exceptional view of Sleeping Bear Bay while they traverse the top of the ridge along the Bay View Trail.

My daughter Cassidy Edwards, gold medallist at Junior Olympics in both cross country skiing and track, designed the trail course for serious runners, joggers and those who would enjoy a hike with beautiful vistas. She describes the run, which begins and ends at the Charles Olsen Farm, as a “unique tour of Sleeping Bear’s historic Port Oneida farmsteads.” The loop she has selected for the 5K will include several sections of the Bayview Trail and will take runners and walkers through the beautiful scenery of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a National Park just 30 miles west of Traverse City.

My wife Lissa Edwards was one of the founders of Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear and was instrumental in helping to save many of the now protected and newly renovated farmsteads from being torn down during the 1990’s.

Runners, joggers and walkers will find the 5K course to be a special tour of the Port Oneida Rural Historic district which is “one of the most prized historic landscapes in the country”! The course meanders through the pastoral landscape of farmsteads from the late 1800s nestled among the hills, and along the shores of Lake Michigan. The start and finish points are at the Park's historic Olsen farmstead which Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear restored in 2004.

Both Nordic Walking and Nordic Running (running with poles) will be allowed. Free use of Nordic Walking Poles will be provided by WWW.SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System.

Event Website: http://www.phsb.org/programs/?id=189

For information call 231-334-6103 or email phsb@leelanau.com

To reserve Nordic Walking Poles for the event please call SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System: 231-334-3080 or email: getfit@skiwalking.com

Nordic Walking Association Welcoming Diversity

2010-08-26T00:34:00.000-04:00

Nordic Walking Associations have typically been nothing more than marketing tools for individuals and/or manufactures to sell their products - books and/or walking poles.

Up until recently the INWA (International Nordic Walking Association) had been giving a cold shoulder to pretty much anyone not aligned with EXEL Nordic Walking Poles. The INWA for years failed to recognize the efforts of Tom Rutlin and his dedication to promoting fitness pole walking here in the USA. The INWA was also unresponsive to my requests to join their organization because of my commitment to SWIX Nordic Walking Poles, SWIX ski racing poles and SWIX ski wax.

The INWA however is now on the right path. They have invited Tom Rutlin to be one of the keynote speakers at the INWA Annual Convention on September 23-26 in Otepaa, Estonia & Riga, Latvia.

Walking with poles may look goofy, but the benefits are huge. Walking with poles burns up to 40% more calories than regular walking. When using the perfect length poles and the correct technique the stress to the weight bear joints (ankles, knees, hips and back) is radically reduced - helping many with joint and/or back pain to walking much more comfortably and effectively. The poles also help to improve balance and stability.

Nordic Walking Poles can provide a winning combination of improved posture, a unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action and shock absorbing benefits - helping many individuals to walk taller, faster and more 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.

When hosting Nordic Walking Classes and training new Nordic Walking Instructors I always provide durable and user-friendly one-piece Nordic Walking Poles. I am also a ski coach and will never feel comfortable promoting cheap/flimsy 2-piece or 3-piece twist-lock or flip-lock collapsible poles that often tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly. One-piece poles prove to be safer, lighter and much more dependable than collapsible poles.

I also prefer Nordic Walking Poles equipped with REAL Nordic Walking Straps - comfortable fingerless glove type straps patented by the Salomon Ski Company. These comfortable straps eliminate the need to grip and squeeze the poles. These same straps were used by all of the cross country skiers during the Winter Olympics. They have helped to revolutionize cross country skiing and they make Nordic Walking much more effective too. These special straps enable individuals to use poles again after they could no longer use strapless or other strap systems due to their arthritis and/or carpal tunnel. SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles utilize Salomon Patented Straps.

I just shipped out a couple dozen more pairs of our one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles to several Wounded Warrior Programs. We specialize in custom fitting our durable one-piece poles to their exact heights. So far we have donated hundreds of pairs of quality one-piece poles and the feedback from the soldiers, pt's, doctors and the Red Cross has been super positive. We have donated free poles and provided free shipping to Wounded Warriors at Walter Reed, Fort Lewis/Madigan/McChord, Fort Carson, Vicenza in Italy and Kaiserslautern Military Community in Germany.

Individuals with balance, stability and/or gait issues benefit most from reliable one-piece poles - including seniors. Collapsible poles should never be recommended to individuals with balance issues.

The INWA originally only promoted one-piece poles too. In that aspect I agreed with them.

I won't be able to make the INWA Convention in Estonia and Latvia. I would enjoy being there as an advocate for one-piece Nordic Walking Poles.

INWA Website: http://inwa-nordicwalking.com/

INWA Convention Info: www.firmasport.ee/failid/INWA_convention_brochure_2010_LR_opt.pdf

SWIX Nordic Walking Poles: http://www.swixnordicwalking.us/

EXEL Nordic Walking Poles: http://www.exelnordicwalking.com/

American Nordic Walking System: http://www.skiwalking.com/

Nordic Walking Certification Includes Unexpected 5km Gold Medal

2010-07-31T14:12:00.000-04:00

Jim Bennett and Kathe Swanson decided to head north this summer, tour the Great Lakes in their RV and attempt to become certified Nordic Walking Instructors. When they arrived in beautiful Northern Michigan, home of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, they never envisioned that their Nordic Walking Certification Course would include bringing back a 5K "Gold Medal" to Orlando, Florida.

Kathe had personally seen the enthusiasm and high participation levels of Nordic Walking while visiting Europe. She and her partner Jim contacted SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System to see if they could partner with a North American company dedicated to quality Nordic Walking Poles and effective Nordic Walking Instruction.

They had researched a variety of Nordic Walking companies and manufactures. Many of the companies they contacted had amnesia when it came to where their 2-piece and 3-piece poles were made? Most likely they were all made in China.

After testing the one-piece EXEL Urban Skier Nordic Walking Poles sized specifically for each of their heights from SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System they knew they had found quality poles from a company dedicated to maintaining 100% positive satisfaction ratings. Quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles are safer, lighter and stronger than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock collapsible poles. One-piece poles that are sized correctly don’t rattle, vibrate, collapse gradually or collapse unexpectedly. SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System offer 16 different standard lengths, while others may only offer three to six different lengths that can’t possibly provide the perfect length poles for most individuals.

EXEL, based in Finland, is credited for producing the first carbon composite ski racing poles and dominated the medal count at the Olympics for years. Then EXEL launched the first true Nordic Walking Poles when they produced the EXEL Nordic Walker poles. EXEL's Nordic Walking poles differed from other walking poles in that they were based on a cross country pole design/Nordic design - lighter and stronger than 2-piece and 3-piece collapsibles. Prior to the introduction of the EXEL Nordic Walker Poles, walking poles were based more on heavier alpine/downhill designs - similar to trekking poles.

All of the SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles from WWW.SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System are equipped with highly effective and comfortable fingerless glove type straps – patented by the Salomon Ski Company. Other types of walking poles may come with no straps, a simple loop strap or cheap velcro slings. Quality cross country ski poles are now all equipped with the more effective fingerless glove type straps – eliminating the need to grip the poles and effectively transmit power into the cradle of the straps through the heel of the hand. SWIX cross country racing poles dominated at the Olympics this year and all were equipped with fingerless glove type straps.

Individuals can experience some, but definitely not all of the many wonderful benefits of Nordic Walking with nearly any type of poles as long as they are sized correctly – downhill poles, cross country poles, trekking poles, ...... Many of my customers said they had experimented with yardsticks, two canes (too short, but better than one cane) and misc. yard tools. One of my favorite fitness instructors provides simple strapless bamboo sticks to help get his classes moving while he uses REAL Nordic Walking Poles and further explains their many advantages.

When someone is interested in Nordic Walking they should not run out and buy a cheap/flimsy pair of twist-lock or flip-lock poles to see if they will like Nordic Walking. They would be better off testing some old ski poles, two walking sticks or any thing handy that can give them a quick feel for walking with poles. I have been told by hundreds of happy customers that they could tell immediately that walking with poles was a huge improvement over regular walking, or walking with a cane, or even a walker.

The perfect length one-piece Nordic Walking Poles can help us all 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.

Part of Jim and Kathe’s Nordic Walking Certification process included not only a review of the American Nordic Walking System, but required participation in a 5km Race. Unfortunately Jim was under the weather and missed out on the Annual Sleeping Bear 5k, but Kathe rose to the occasion and won a gold medal in her age group!

The Nordic Walking certification courses offered by The American Nordic Walking System differ hugely from other certification courses. The cost is much less. The courses are based on my 25 plus years of coaching experience (runners and skiers), my hosting of hundreds of Nordic Walking Classes and my introduction of Nordic Walking to thousands of individuals.

When I became a certified Nordic Walking Instructor I knew the desired answers to many of the test’s questions were incorrect. My running and ski background had taught me that alignment and proper biomechanics are critical. I knew that there should be NO “leaning” while Nordic Walking (flats or uphills), NO fake elongated strides and NO siting back on the downhills. Many DVD’s and books about Nordic Walking include a lot of leaning, elongated strides and sitting back. Plus many DVD'’ and books provide poor sizing information – claiming that you can simply take one’s height and multiply by .68 or .7 and come up with the perfect length poles for an individual’s height. Being a ski coach I know that skis and poles from different companies are not measured the same and using .68 or .7 would be wrong. The goal is to get that elbow and 90 degrees and the forearm parallel to the ground when standing tall.

Congratulations to Kathe for winning her Gold Medal while Nordic Walking in the Sleeping Bear 5K - over 700 runners, walkers and Nordic Walkers participated! And as soon as she completes the written portion of her certification process she will become a Level 1 Certified Nordic Walking Instructor! Upon completion of additional requirements (including more hands on teaching and acquiring additional student testimonies) she will become Level 2 Certified. And next year she may be ready to tackle Level 3 Nordic Walking Certification.

What are the best Poles for Nordic Sports in hilly terrain?

2010-07-26T09:26:00.000-04:00

Every day I am asked about the best walking poles for use in hilly terrain. And every day I say the same consistent thing: “cross country ski racers don’t change pole length at the bottom of the hill and again at the top”. There is a huge myth going round that you need shorter poles on the uphill and longer on the downhill.

One-piece poles prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable for all Nordic Sports – including cross country skiing, Nordic walking, Nordic running, Nordic blading (inline skatng), Nordic Snowshoing and roller skiing. Nordic sports enthusiasts would NEVER consider trading their lighter + stronger one-piece poles for heavier and questionable 2-piece or 3-piece poles.

My wife and I don’t change pole length each evening when we Nordic walk or Nordic run up the mile long trail behind town to the scenic look-out on Alligator Hill or when we continue on our favorite loop that returns back down to the trail head. We have also tested our SWIX and EXEL Nordic walking poles in the Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountains, White Mountains, on the Application trail and in the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. One-piece poles that are sized correctly work great in the city, out in the country and up in the mountains.

Our daughter is a professional outdoor educator and Outward Bound instructor. The #1 equipment failures while in the wilderness are 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles (typically the ones from China, but not always).

If twist-locks and flip-locks were so awesome ski shops and ski rental shops would have them for rental and demo.

Check out a sampling of the disappointing reviews at REI regarding collapsible poles – some costing nearly $200.00!

I broke 2 pair while hiking the PCT this summer. The grips on the handles came unglued on the first pair in the desert after 3 days. The second pair snapped in the cold High Sierras (I was barely leaning on them).
* Locking mechanism very difficult to get it to lock. Very annoying if you want to change length of poles frequently.
* Poles are delicate and not suitable for heavy duty use (and I only weigh 150#).
*Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend.

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I was very disappointed when my locking mechanism failed. When I originally purchased these on sale, there were several pairs that would not lock. I had to pick through a lot to find a pair that would work. I was hoping that it was a manufacturing flaw, and that the pair I found would work. I have used them about four times, and I can no longer lock them. I am unimpressed with how it locks.

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These are typical of comments that I hear every day from individuals that accidentally purchased twist-lock and flip-lock poles from other sources. It doesn’t matter if it is REI, Cabela’s, EMS, LLB or another big name store. I am told over and over again about collapsible poles and how they tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly.

Seniors and individuals with balance issues should especially avoid cheap flip-lock and twist-lock collapsible poles. Be sure to look for the Perfect Length Poles for your height. At SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System we offer 16 different lengths of REAL Nordic Walking Poles. Some companies only offer three sizes and others maybe six, but they can’t provide the Perfect Length Poles for most people.

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.

Don’t get caught up in the marketing hype that suggests 2-piece and 3-piece poles are the best option for hilly terrain.

Nordic Sports are the best!

Clowning Around With Nordic Walking Poles

2010-06-27T18:42:00.002-04:00

Teaching Nordic Walking Classes around the USA has provided a wonderful opportunity for me to see more of this great country.

On my way out to upstate New York to teach more Nordic Walking classes earlier this month I was scheduled to host Nordic Walking Classes at the Senior Expo in Cadillac, Michigan.

I thought the “theme” for the Senior Expo was supposed to be a pirate theme, but when I arrived it turned out to be a “circus theme”. Luckily I didn’t dress for the occasion.

However, I did get a chance to introduce Nordic Walking to several clowns – including Dynamite The Clown, the most famous clown in all of Northern Michigan. Despite the enormous shoes, all of the clowns benefited from our quality one-piece poles that are sized correctly to each individual’s and each clown’s height. The clowns also noticed that walking with poles turbo charged their typical walking program.

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.

We all need weight bearing exercise, including clowns, and Nordic Walking could be just the ticket for millions of Americans looking to turbo charge their walking campaigns. Nordic Walking poles can also help those wanting to launch an effective Nordic Walking Program. Nordic Walking poles can also help those with balance, stability and gait issues - the poles radically reduce the stress to the shins, knees, hips and back PLUS the poles prove to be a HUGE balance aid.

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.

When looking for REAL Nordic Walking Poles be sure to find correctly fitted one-piece Nordic Walking Poles. Don't get scammed by cheap flip-lock and twist-lock 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible poles from China. One-piece poles that are sized correctly prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap twist-lock and flip-lock poles that tend to rattle, vibrate, freeze up and/or collapse unexpectedly.

SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles are quality one-piece poles and are equipped with REAL Nordic Walking Straps - comfortable and patented by the Salomon Ski Company.

Walking with poles is the best!

Free Nordic Walking Classes Coming To Leelanau County's Senior Expo

2010-06-11T10:22:00.000-04:00

NORDIC WALKING POLES = 4-WHEEL DRIVE

FREE Nordic walking classes and FREE Nordic walking pole demos will again be offered during the Annual Older American Expo in Suttons Bay, Michigan on Tuesday, June 15. The Expo will be held at the Suttons Bay High School from 10am – 2pm.

The Older Americans Expo will feature a variety of activities including Nordic walking, plus exhibits from businesses and organizations with products and services geared for seniors. Local agencies and Leelanau County Departments will also be on hand to answer your questions and provide health screenings. Local artisans and crafts people will also display their talents as well.

The free Nordic walking classes and pole demos will be provided by Glen Arbor's Pete Edwards – the owner, founder and coach of SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System. Edwards’ company is North America’s leading retailer and supplier of Nordic walking poles and the exclusive source for all sizes of one-piece SWIX and EXEL Nordic walking poles here in the USA. Edwards is also the exclusive supplier for SWIX and EXEL Nordic walking rubber tips/asphalt paws. Edwards ships his one-piece Nordic walking, sized specifically to each individual’s height, all over the world every day from his Glen Arbor, Michigan headquarters.

Pete Edwards has been coaching runners and skiers of all ages and fitness levels for over 25 years. Edwards is a former ski school director, running coach, personal trainer and the owner/founder of The American Nordic Walking System and SKIWALKING.COM Nordic Walking Poles, headquartered in Glen Arbor, Michigan. Edwards has coached State Champions (individuals + teams), All-Americans and National Champions. He has also introduced Nordic Walking to thousands of Americans through Nordic Walking clinics, radio interviews, newspaper interviews and TV interviews. His Nordic Walking Poles have been featured on ABC News and the New York Times. He has skied in 50K marathons and won 26.2 mile running marathons. His skiers have been hill bounding and ski walking with poles for years in the summer when deprived of snow. Hosting Nordic Walking clinics is extremely enjoyable for Edwards and he especially enjoys hosting Nordic Walking clinics for MS, Parkinson’s, Cardiac Rehabilitation and Diabetes support groups, plus Wounded Warrior Programs. Edwards also donates free Nordic Walking Poles to Wounded Warrior Programs at Walter Reed, Fort Carson, Fort Lewis/Madigan/McChord and Vicenza, Italy.

The Older American’s Expo is being hosted by the Leelanau County Commission on Aging. Their phone number is: 231-256-8121

For more information about SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles please go to http://www.skiwalking.com/ or call toll free: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255.

Nordic Walking Success At Mercy Hospital's Cardiac Rehab Department

2010-06-07T23:43:00.000-04:00

REAL Nordic Walking Poles Radically Improve Balance Stability And Gait

While hosting Nordic Walking Classes at Mercy Hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation Department and offering Nordic Walking Classes for the hospital staff during lunch I received the typical positive feedback from participants. The many benefits of walking with the perfect length poles and correct technique was recognized and appreciated by those in cardiac rehab, their spouses, the pt's, the doctors and other hospital staff members.

Mercy Hospital’s Cardiac Rehab Dept. has a nice selection of exercise equipment including real Nordic Walking Poles. The Cardiac Rehabilitation PT’s (physical therapists) utilize one-piece SWIX Nordic Walking Poles – safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy two-piece and three-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles that tend to rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly.

When I arrived at Cardiac Rehab I found one gentleman Nordic Walking the halls outside Cardiac Rehab. His technique was awesome and there was a real bounce in his step. When I caught up to Mr. Raymer I learned that he had just turned 71 the day before. I learned that he had also recovered from a heavy equipment accident and was lucky to even be able to walk. He told me that his Nordic Walking Poles keep him going spring, summer and fall. And come winter he cross country skis too. The benefits of Nordic Walking and cross country skiing are huge and they are very similar. They are both highly effective aerobically and both are gentle on the shins, knees, hips and back.

Skiers know that one piece poles are much lighter and much more durable than 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible poles. Skiers don’t use cheap/flimsy twist-lock or flip-lock poles for obvious reasons. During my Nordic Walking classes numerous participants told me about the problems they had with their collapsible walking and snowshoe poles. My dependable SWIX and EXEL one-piece Nordic Walking Poles proved to be far superior to their cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece poles. Plus all of my SWIX and EXEL poles are equipped with real Nordic Walking Straps – comfortable fingerless glove type straps - patented by the Salomon Ski Company.

While Nordic Walking at Mercy Hospital we kept the rubber Nordic Walking tips/asphalt paws on. The rubber tips/asphalt paws are ideal on carpet, tile, indoor/outdoor tracks, pavement and of course asphalt. When the rubber tips are removed the metal tips are exposed and ideal for trails, grass, dirt, the beach, snow and ice.

Our SWIX and EXEL one-piece Nordic Walking Poles are being utilized at multiple cardiac rehabilitation locations across the country. PT’s and doctors recognize that our one-piece poles are user-friendly and won’t collapse unexpectedly like twist-lock and flip-lock poles can when they fail. SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System provides superior Nordic Walking Poles and has developed a variety of exertion and intensity levels, plus special instructions for individuals with balance issues. There is an ideal level of intensity and exertion appropriate for any age and any fitness level – from casual to maximum calorie burn.

Walking with poles is the best!

Nordic Walking Classes Return to NMC (Northwestern Michigan College)

2010-04-25T14:13:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday, May 12, 2010, Nordic Walking Classes will return to Northwestern Michigan College’s Lifelong Learning Campus Day – a popular enrichment event designed especially for adults age 50 and over. Participants will select three sessions from over 30 unique options about the ever-changing world we live in—from our own challenges to local and regional issues, technology to area attractions and businesses, computer skills, wellness (including Nordic Ski Walking), travel, the arts, renewable energy, and more. Well-known community leaders and experts along with NMC faculty present insightful sessions.

The Nordic Ski Walking Class is scheduled during the 2nd session from: 11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. The Nordic Walking Class will include an introduction to the history of Nordic Walking, a review of the many benefits of Nordic Walking, an opportunity to test drive real Nordic Walking Poles and instruction based on the American Nordic Walking System.

Presenter Pete Edwards has introduced thousands of Americans to Nordic Walking. After hosting hundreds of Nordic Walking Clinics he developed the American Nordic Walking System - providing safe and effective instruction. The American Nordic Walking System was specifically designed to provide a variety of intensity and exertion levels. There is an ideal level of intensity and exertion for any ages and any fitness level. He also hosts free Nordic Walking Classes for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's (PD), Diabetes and Cardiac Rehabilitation Support Groups, plus Wounded Warrior Programs. He also has donated hundreds of his special Nordic Walking Poles to Wounded Warriors at Walter Reed, Fort Carson, Fort Lewis/Madigan/McChord and Vicenza, Italy

Lifelong Learning Campus Day participants enrolled in the Nordic Walking Classes will have the opportunity to test drive real SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles – sized specifically to each individual’s height. Edwards’ offers 14 different lengths of poles – more than any other company in North America. Edwards is committed to the simple fact that quality one-piece poles that are sized correctly prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap/flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece twist-lock or flip-lock collapsible poles.

Edwards has been coaching runners and skiers for over 25 years and knows for a fact that skiers use durable and dependable one-piece poles. Skiers do not use cheap/flimsy collapsible poles. Seniors and individuals with balance issues should especially avoid cheap/flimsy 2-piece twist-lock and flip-lock poles that can collapse unexpectedly, vibrate excessively, rattle and/or fail all together. Serious athletes and hikers can also depend on one-piece Nordic Walking Poles to out perform adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles.

For more information and to register for NMC’s Lifelong Learning Campus Day please contact the NMC Life Academy: 231-995-1700. Website: www.nmc.edu/ees/lifeacademy

The American Nordic Walking System and SKIWALKING.COM are headquartered in Glen Arbor, Michigan and ships Swix and Exel Nordic Walking Poles worldwide every day.

Contact Information: Pete Edwards - Owner/Founder/Coach - American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM

Toll Free: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255

Swix Nordic Walking: http://www.swixnordicwalking.us/

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

Swix Dominates Cross Country Events at Winter Olympics - SWIX Nordic Walking Poles Available In USA

2010-04-09T14:46:00.003-04:00

70% of all the gold medals awarded during the Cross Country Competition

at the Vancouver Olympics were won by athletes using Swix poles!

The new SWIX TRIAC© Cross Country Ski Racing Poles reached the podium 54 times during the Olympics!

SWIX ski and snowboard waxes also raced to numerous podiums during the Olympics in ALL Snow-Sport events – Alpine, Nordic, Snowboard, …..

SWIX of Lillehammer, Norway also produces some of the world’s best Nordic Walking Poles and North America’s leading retailer and distributor SWIX Nordic Walking Poles is American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM – based in Glen Arbor, Michigan.

Pete Edwards has been leading the Nordic Walking charge in North America by offering honest advice and quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles in 14 different lengths.

As a ski coach Edwards knows that one-piece poles are safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap and flimsy 2-piece and 3-piece collapsible poles from China and equipped with twist-lock or flip-lock systems that typically vibrate, rattle and/or collapse unexpectedly.

Doctors and therapists are quick to note that one-piece piece Nordic Walking Poles are safer, lighter and more durable than cheap adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles. Dr. Rekola’s research article “Walking is Good for Your Health – Nordic Walking may be even Better” includes this great quote: “when used for vigorous walking for exercise, the telescopic locking mechanism may fail and cause injuries if the mechanism fails under load and the pole unexpectedly gives way. For exercise, non-telescopic poles, made of composite fiber or other lightweight materials, are recommended.”

Edwards has been coaching runners and skiers for over 25 years and knows that it is just common sense to realize that one-piece poles that are sized correctly will prove to be the most effective and at the same time hassle-free. His experience hosting hundreds of Nordic Walking Classes has reinforced this simple fact about one-piece poles. At the American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM there are 14 different lengths of quality one-piece Nordic Walking Poles available and Edwards will custom make Nordic Walking poles for individuals over 6’ 7” at no extra charge.

Edwards will point out that he never saw any skiers this winter using 2-piece or 3-piece poles. He did see several pairs of broken 2-piece and 3-piece snowshoe poles at several trailheads. The best poles for skiing, snowshoeing and Nordic Walking are durable and user-friendly one-piece poles that are sized correctly.

Edwards is the only source in North America for all sizes of quality SWIX Nordic Walking Poles and he offers a Perfect Length Guarantee – resulting in 100% positive satisfaction ratings. Edwards passionately states that “we couldn’t maintain a 100% Positive Satisfaction Rating if we sold cheap twist-lock and/or flip-lock poles from China. And besides, I could NEVER sell cheap collapsible poles to seniors or individuals with balance issues – how rude and irresponsible would that be!”

Walking with poles is the best!

Many Nordic Walking Enthusiasts Started Out Using Old Ski Poles

2010-03-15T18:22:00.001-04:00

Like myself, many of my customers launched their personal Nordic Walking campaigns using ski poles and then graduated to real Nordic Walking Poles.

Old ski poles work great on trails - especially if they are sized correctly. After my last running injury my ski poles provided a huge relief while hiking with poles on my favorite running trail. I already knew that ski poles worked great for ski walking and hill bounding - as a means to keep in shape and get ready for the next ski season. After coaching ski racers for over 25 years I knew that ski walking and hill bounding with poles, combined with running and roller skiing, were the secret weapons to prepare over the summer for another successful ski season.

One-piece ski poles, like one-piece Nordic Walking Poles, prove to be far superior to the cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock 2-piece and 3-piece Nordic Walking, trekking and snowshoe poles flooding the marketing from china.

One-piece ski poles and one-piece Nordic Walking Poles are safer, lighter and much more durable than 2-piece and 3-piece poles. One-piece Nordic Walking Poles have also proven to be lighter and much more user-friendly while hiking in the Grand Canyon. Skiers know that one-piece poles are better and skiers trust their one-piece poles.

At SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System we have 14 different lengths and we also custom build poles for individuals over 6' 7" (at no extra cost). We also offer a Perfect Length Guarantee.

While taking orders today, Judith, an enthusiastic 71 year young lady told me about her success with her ski poles this past winter while walking in her apartment and around the neighborhood. She mentioned that her ski poles were a huge improvement over her walker. She also informed me that she had PD (Parkinson's Disease). She had recently purchased some adjustable poles, but she said "they sucked" and then told me that she sent them back. She was delighted to find our company offers 14 different one-piece lengths. Her new Nordic Walking Poles are shipping out first thing tomorrow.

As Judith discovered, one-piece poles don't rattle, vibrate and/or collapse unexpectedly like the cheap/flimsy twist-locks and flip-locks from China do. I would recommend old ski poles, including the old bamboo poles, over these cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock poles coming in from China.

Be sure to ask where your poles are made. Judith's new SWIX Nordic Walking Poles are made in Lillehammer, Norway. Her poles are also equipped with comfortable patented straps (patented by the Salomon Ski Company) and include both durable carbide metal tips for trails, the beach snow and ice, plus removable rubber tips for pavement, carpet, tile and other hard surfaces.

Our company has donated hundreds of pairs of quality one-piece poles to the Wounded Warriors Programs. Once we know how tall a Wounded Warrior is we select the Perfect Length Poles for his/her height. While providing free Nordic Walking Classes for Wounded Warriors I quickly realized that they do not like their canes or walkers. The perfect length Nordic Walking Poles provided everyone that participated in our classes with improved walking posture (straighter back), plus greatly improved balance, stability and gait. Cheap/flimsy twist-lock and flip-lock poles could not hold up to the added stress put on the poles by the wounded warriors.

Walking with poles is the best, but be sure to avoid the cheap stuff from China and look for quality one-piece poles in the correct length for your height.

SWIX Ski Racing Poles, SWIX Ski Wax and SWIX Nordic Walking Poles - Commitment To Quality

2010-02-03T10:43:00.000-05:00

SWIX Poles Sweeps The Podium at USA Nationals - Classic Mass Start Races

In the men's race SWIX poles and wax dominate

SWIX racing poles and ski wax stole the show at USA XC Ski Nationals last month in Alaska. The podium results and medal counts were extremely consistent.

For more additional results and cross country info here is the US Ski Team link: http://www.usskiteam.com/crosscountry

In the women's race its Gold, Silver and Bronze again!

Quality SWIX poles and super fast SWIX wax proved again to be the choice of champions at USA XC Ski Nationals. SWIX's demonstrated commitment to quality at USA Cross Country Ski Nationals was evident for the world to see.

If you would like assistance in waxing like those on the podium check out the SWIX Wax Wizard: http://www.swixschool.com/web/wizard.html?langInput=lang2&menuInput=subM2

SWIX's commitment to quality is also evident in their recreational ski pole and wax lines too. Dependable and user-friendly products - including Nordic Walking Poles. At SKIWALKING.COM and The American Nordic Walking System quality one-piece walking poles are available in 14 different lengths - more than any other retailer in North America. The SWIX Nordic Walking VIP's are equipped with comfortable Nordic Walking Straps patented by the Salomon Ski Company (please note that ALL six of the medal winning athletes above skied with similar straps - proven to be extremely efficient and effective. The SWIX Nordic Walking VIP's are also equipped with durable metal tips for walking off-road - on trails, the beach, grass, snow and ice. They also come with removable rubber tips/paws for pounding the pavement and other hard surfaces.

Recreational skiers and races alike know that their one-piece poles are far superior to cheap twist-lock/flip-lock adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles. Yesterday during ski practice we passed a snowshoer with just one pole - one of her twist-lock poles broke as soon as she hit the trail. Skiers would never use twist-lock or flip-lock poles that can vibrate, rattle, collapse unexpectedly and/or fail altogether. One-piece poles are proven to be safer, lighter and stronger than cheap twist-lock and flip-lock poles. Seniors and individuals should especially avoid cheap twist-lock and flip-lock poles.

When looking for trekking or Nordic Walking Poles be sure to ask yourself this simple question: "would these poles pass the "skier" test?" The answer will always be NO - they won't. And that is why SWIX has been committed to provide superior one-piece poles.

February is American Heart Month and the Winter Olympics are this month too. Exercise is a key component to improving heart health. Let's hope that the Olympics will help to motivate more of us to get outside and exercise - skiing, snowshoeing, Nordic Walking or just plain walking.

Nordic Walking, Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing On Winter Trails Day

2010-01-18T00:25:00.002-05:00

Saturday, Jan. 9th was Winter Trails Day and perfect conditions greeted snowshoes and cross country skiers. And the Nordic Walking was fantastic too - though not snow dependant. SKIWALKING.COM and the American Nordic Walking System offered free Nordic Walking Classes, free Nordic Walking Pole rentals and provided poles for Nordic Snowshoeing too. SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles were the poles of choice.

After hosting Nordic Walking Clinics from 10am - 2pm in celebration of winter trails day we hit the trails on cross country skis. The skiing was fantastic up on Alligator Hill behind Glen Arbor and part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Nordic Walking can be done any time of year and in any type of weather. When used on trails, the beach, grass, snow and/or ice the rubber Nordic Walking Tips/Paws are removed - exposing the metal tips. When Nordic Walking on dry pavement the rubber tips/paws act as silencers (eliminating the annoying clank of the metal tips) and they act as shock absorbers too.

During Winter Trails Day we provided Nordic Walkers and Nordic Snowshoers with durable one-piece poles. One-piece poles that are sized correctly to each individual's height prove to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap twist-lock and flip-lock adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles from China.

As skiers we know that one-piece poles prove to be superior for Nordic Walking, snowshoeing and skiing - one-piece poles are much more user-friendly and dependable than poles equipped with twist-locks and other gadgets. And when the correct length one-piece poles are used for Nordic Walking , snowshoeing and skiing the benefits are huge. The correct length poles help to radically reduce the stress to the shins, knees, hips and back. Plus the poles improve balance and stability. Walking and snowshoeing with poles take the stress off the lower back and make walking and snowshoeing much more effective - burning more calories than not using poles.

You don't have to wait for Winter Trails Day to get out and enjoy our wonderful trails - anytime of year is a great time to hit the trails.

Nordic Walking Poles Welcome At More Running and Walking Events

2009-11-17T02:07:00.000-05:00

Nordic Walking Poles are showing up at more and more walking and running events.

This past weekend I hosted the Glen Lake Turkey Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk - sponsored by Running Fit, Coca-Cola, SKIWALKING.COM and The American Nordic Walking System. Nordic Walking Poles have always been welcome. There are no specific rules. Participants are welcome to Nordic Walk or Nordic Run with their poles.

As Nordic Walking continues to catch on here in the USA I hope that more events will encourage Nordic Walking and Nordic Running.

Salmon Fishing Followed by Nordic Walking

2009-09-29T16:12:00.000-04:00

Keefer finally landed his 1st Great Lakes Salmon of the season - caught while fishing the Crystal River. Salmon eggs seemed to work best.

After Keefer filleted his salmon he joined us up on Alligator Hill for a family Ski Walk (Nordic Walk). Our trusty SWIX and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles work great in town (on pavement with the rubber tips/paws on) and for the mile-long climb up to the lookout on Alligator Hill behind town (rubber tips/paws off for trails, the beach, snow and ice). And just like during ski season we only use one-piece poles that are sized to each individuals height - NO twist-locking or collapsible poles.

Keefer is begging to go back to Gustavus, Alaska - more salmon, plus giant halibut!

Tonight the Salmon is going on the grill - BBQ King Salmon. The BBQ King Salmon from the Gustavus Inn may be impossible to duplicate, but we are going to give it a shot.

Kids are cool!

Nordic Walking Is A Great Way To Get Ready For Ski Season - Downhill and Cross Country (Alpine and Nordic)

2008-11-18T22:08:00.005-05:00

The launch of the 2008-2009 cross country ski season in Leelanau County was on Monday, November 17th! The classic skiing couldn't have been better. We skied in our own tracks and didn't have any sticking or clumping problems on the bottoms or sides of our skies thanks to having our skies stored all summer with a thick coat of SWIX Base Prep Wax and a fresh application of liquid ski wax applied tip to tail - SWIX Violet Glide (F7LE - liquid glide).

Cross country skiing, also called Nordic Skiing, is one of several "Nordic Sports" including Nordic Walking, Nordic Running, Nordic Snowshoeing and Nordic Blading. After Nordic Walking since last ski season ended it was really great to be back on snow and skiing. Nordic Walking is the next best thing to skiing. Walking with poles has proven once again to be a great way to get ready for ski season. For more info about Nordic Walking contact The American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM .

Fresh snow on top of wet grass and/or leaves can create a waxing problem, but proper base preparation can ensure more FUN skiing and eliminate the hassle of dealing with skis that ice up during tricky conditions.

SWIX Violet Glide (F7LE - liquid glide) works great on skate skis, waxable classic skis and no-wax classic skis when temps are below freezing. Apply tip to tail (including fishscale and step-type no-wax bases). Allow time to dry (a few minutes). Cork in. For colder temps try SWIX Blue Glide (F6LE - liquid glide). For temps at or above 32 degrees use SWIX Red Glide (F8LE - liquid glide). For more wax info please check out the SWIX Wax Wizard: http://www.swixschool.com/web_tysk/wizard2.html?langInput=lang2&menuInput=subM2

MY NEW SALOMON CROSS COUNTRY (NORDIC) SKI BOOTS HAVE ARRIVED!

2008-10-24T21:14:00.005-04:00

SALOMON S-LAB CARBON SKIATHLON CROSS COUNTRY SKI BOOTS

My wife knows it is fall and ski season is around the corner when I'm spotted walking around the house in my new ski boots. My favorite classic cross country boots are my S-Lab Carbon Classics. My favorite skate boots are my S-Lab Carbon Skates. And now I'm hoping my new Skiathlon Boots will be my favorite teaching boots. I'll be able to change from skate to classic skis without having to change boots - sounds pretty good if jumping back and forth from teaching classic and skate lessons.

All of my Salomon cross country skis are equipped with the Pilot System so my new Skiathlon boots will work great with ALL of my skis. Sounds almost to good to be true. The new Skiathlon boots are the ultimate combi boots and actually designed for "Pursuit" cross country ski races. These boots are designed to handle classic cross country skiing with a soft flex under the ball of the foot while maintaining torsional stiffness for skating. The cuff is a softer material than the skate boot and offers a slightly lower profile for a wider range of motion. This Pursuit Racing Boot supposedly doubles as an excellent boot for coaches. The Salomon Skiathlon Boots have all of Salomon's top-end features: Carbon heel cup, sensifit compression fit, speedlace, one-piece carbon sole and more.

As and I'm sitting here typing this all I can say is they are super comfortable and I'll be dreaming of snow tonight.

For more info about Salomon Ski Equipment: http://www.salomonsports.com/US/#/nordic

If you are looking for a great way to get ready for ski season or know someone that could benefit from Nordic Walking Poles check out: The American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM

Think SNOW!

NORDIC WALKING AND NORDIC SNOWSHOEING ELIMINATE LEG PAIN AND MUCH MORE

2008-10-13T22:31:00.004-04:00

Members Of The Glen Lake Track Team Give Nordic Snowshoeing A Try When The Track Was Covered By An April Snow Storm

Just several days ago we launched the Nordic Sports Blog. And just today we received an email from a happy Nordic Walking customer reinforcing the simple facts that walking and snowshoeing with poles makes walking and snowshoeing more effective, more comfortable and often pain free for those inflicted with health issues that limit walking and snowshoeing for fun and fitness.

Everyday we receive thank you cards, thank you phone calls and thank you emails from happy Nordic Walking customers. This positive feedback is extremely motivating for all of us at the American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM
Here is the email that we received today:

Pete: I met you at the Senior's Expo in Suttons Bay a few months back. I bought a set of your Nordic Ski Walking poles and they have been of immense help in dealing with my lumbar stenosis. A few years ago, I found that the only strenuous exercise that wouldn't cause shooting leg pains was snowshoeing. Obviously, the ski poles I use while snowshoeing had been taking enough weight off of my legs to eliminate the pain. Well, guess what? The same principle works with ordinary walking so long as I use your Nordic Ski Walking poles. The increase in exercise from Nordic Ski Walking poles has helped me with weight loss and has probably put off the need for spinal surgery for at least a few years. Thank you very much.

Jay

It is exciting to immediately post feedback from an individual that has found success Nordic Walking and Nordic Snowshoeing (Snowshoeing with poles). Using the correct length poles really does improve posture and help to minimize stress to the weight bearing joints. Walking and snowshoeing also helps to burn more calories because the arms are more actively engaged.
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.

Adding poles to your walking campaign and snowshoeing outings not only improve balance and
stability, but the poles often allow individuals with Arthritis, MS, Parkinson's, Post Polio, Neuropathy, Scoliosis, Osteoporisis, Lumbar Stenosis to successfully get outside and walk successfully, safely and effectively. At The American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM we assist our customers with one-piece poles that are proven to be safer, lighter and much more durable than cheap twist-locking adjustable length/telescoping/collapsible poles. Don't get scammed by cheap twist-locking poles!

Please let me know if you have any questions at any time.

Have a great day – Nordic Skiing, Nordic Walking, Nordic Running, Nordic Blading and Nordic Snowshoeing are the best,

Pete - owner/founder/coach The American Nordic Walking System and WWW.SKIWALKING.COM Nordic Walking Poles

Email: GETFIT@SKIWALKING.COM

Toll Free: 877-SKIWALKING or 877-754-9255

WELCOME TO THE NORDIC SPORTS BLOG - PROMOTING ALL NORDIC SPORTS: NORDIC SKIING, NORDIC WALKING, NORDIC RUNNING, NORDIC BLADING AND NORDIC SNOWSHOEING

2008-10-12T12:37:00.001-04:00

NORDIC SPORTS FOR ALL AGES AND ALL FITNESS LEVELS

These healthy Nordic Sport activities originated in Scandinavia and have spread all across Europe. And as Americans face alarming levels of obesity and the related complications of obesity, it is perfect timing for Nordic Sports to assist Americans in their efforts to exercise effectively, improve overall fitness and benefit from the added balance and stability provided by poles.

Cross country skiing (Nordic Skiing) has always been the leading fitness activity and sport in the Scandinavian Countries. And now Nordic Walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in Europe. Cross country ski racers are often proclaimed to be the most physically fit athletes on the planet and Nordic Walking has been embraced all across Scandinavia and the rest of Europe due to the many healthful benefits and similarities to cross country skiing.

Cross country skiing was the first of the Nordic Sports. Ski Walking, the predecessor to Nordic Walking, came next as a training activity for ski racers deprived of snow during the summer. Nordic Walking Poles provide effective, yet low impact walking on and off road – no snow and now skis required. Nordic Running incorporates Nordic Walking Poles into your running campaign. Next to hit the Nordic scene was Nordic Blading (in-line skating or roller blading with poles). Then came Nordic Snowshoeing – simply adding poles to while snowshoeing improves balance and stability, engages the upper body and helps to eliminate the lower back pain that often occurs while snowshoeing.

Nordic Sports burn more calories than regular walking and running. The poles help to improve posture and help to eliminate shin, knee, hip and back pain. Nordic Sports are proven to help effectively assist in weight management and weight loss.

For more information about Nordic Walking please go to http://www.skiwalking.com/

In future posts I will review the many benefits of these Nordic Sports.

I’m hoping that more Americans will get off the couch and participate in Nordic Sports.