Testimonials:
I took a Nordic Walking class from
Rhea in April 2008, and have enjoyed Nordic Walking ever since. Nordic
Walking is not only great for your health, but is a wonderful way to
meet others. I have met many wonderful new people through Nordic Walking
and continue to walk with some of them every week. I have also participated
in several local 5K and 10K walks that allow poles, and have been to
the 21K Birkie Trek in Hayward for the past two years, it’s great
fun! Jess H
Rave: Springtime is the perfect time for
Nordic walking. The activity isn’t well-known here in the United
States, but it’s Europe’s most popular form of exercise. Since I
interviewed Rhea Kontos last year about Nordic Walk This Way, her local
network for Nordic walking and training, I’ve caught the bug. Winter
sidelined me, but the warm weather this spring has inspired me once
again to get out on the trails. What’s not to love about exercising
outdoors and burning more calories than regular walking? Spring is a
great time to get out there, because it’s not too cold and not too hot.
Maybe you can give it a try, too. For information, tips and classes
where you can learn the Nordic walking technique, visit www.nordicwalkthisway.com. – Lori C
As
part of an overall increase in my exercise program, I took Rhea’s class
in Nordic Pole Walking in June 2009. Before that I had started a
walking regime along with some exercise classes, but I found the Nordic pole walking to be a much better
overall aerobic exercise. As a result of my increased exercise program,
I was able to postpone indefinitely the open heart surgery to repair or
replace two heart valves I was scheduled to undergo last summer.Jan C
After my hip injury in Feb. 2009, I was unable to continue my normal
exercise routine of aerobics, cross country skiing or biking. I
struggled to find a replacement exercise while my hip healed, although
swimming did help. Even walking moderately fast caused hip and
sometimes lower back pain.
Then in August 2009, I learned how to Nordic Pole Walk (NW) from Rhea.
I was tentative at first, only NWing for 20 mins or so and not walking
too fast. I began to notice that when I started to NW, I'd stand
taller, straighter. I'd get tired after a walk, but I wouldn't hurt
during or after the walk. I began to push myself more, working up a
sweat and walking longer. Still no pain!
Now I NW whenever I can: out on the street when there's a snow-free
path, at my health club, or with a group at a local school (my favorite
because of the fun, social aspect). My arms and legs are more toned,
my posture has improved, and I've even lost a little weight. My hip is
healing, but even when I'm able to resume my other activities, I plan
to keep NW. I just love it! Thanks, Rhea! Lisa K
I sit at a desk all day and my shoulders, neck and upper back get pretty stiff and sore. When I Nordic Walk regularly they really loosen up and the pain goes away. I also feel like Nordic Walking has improved my posture.Another great benefit are the people in the group, who are so nice and so much fun. Also, the other activites like snowshoeing (with or without) and race events. Nordic Walking is just plain, good exercise and good fun. I love it. Wanda B
I just wanted to let you know that my plan to use my collapsible travel poles in Hawaii is working very well. One old gentleman in a wheel chair asked me how the skiing was, but many people recognize what I am doing, to my surprise. I have encountered a few others who are doing the same. I have been doing around 3-4 miles at a time and definitely notice I am working harder and getting more aerobic work with the poles. Jackie W
I have been meaning to write for some
time to thank you for the class that I took with you thru District 112
last fall. I had no idea how enjoyable I would find my new sport of
Nordic Walking. I get some strange looks as I walk, but it has
been extremely beneficial to me. I remember you telling the
class about some problems you had with your neck and shoulders that
were solved by Nordic Walking. I too have had problems for many
years and haven’t found anything helpful. I doubtfully tried it and
have been helped tremendously. I have been spreading the word. Sharon K
Just wanted to let you know that Jess and I really enjoyed your class last night. We will test out our new skills again this evening. I develop and teach training in my job and wanted to let you know I thought your class content was well presented. Linda C.