SportMed RunWalk

Nordic Walking Programs

Nordic Walking or “pole walking” is a fantastic cardiovascular activity that works your entire body. The activity originated in Finland as a summer cross-training option for skiers and provides all of the benefits of cross-country skiing without the snow.

Using specifically designed poles for Nordic walking that are similar to those used for cross-country skiing, Nordic walkers stride along trails and roads while using a technique that engages the upper body and back as well as the lower portion of the body. Nordic walking is a great activity for active living participants who are walking for fitness, as well as athletes who are looking for a cross-training alternative.

In partnership with The Vancouver Sun Run, SportMedBC was the first to initiate Nordic walking clinics leading up to taking part in a 10K event. Training clinics were introduced in 2007 and are now offered annually leading up to the Vancouver Sun Run.

For a list of Sun Run InTraining clinics for Nordic Walking: click here.

SportMedBC’s official Nordic Walking partner is Urban Poling, a Vancouver based company led by co-owners Mandy Shintani and Graham Watts. In addition to providing technical training and certification for SportMed RunWalk Nordic walking leaders, Urban Poling has been instrumental in helping SportMedBC develop a network of trained leaders which in turn has allowed us to continue to expand our programming. SportMedBC is proud to offer Urban Poling’s award winning "Fitness Edition" Poles in the SportMed Shop.

Urban Poling is dedicated to the promotion and education of Nordic Walking, aka Urban Poling, across Canada. Urban Poling's national training centre, accredited by six fitness organizations, has certified over 550 fitness instructors, including fitness clubs and community centres from Victoria, BC to St. John’s, NL. For more information on Urban Poles, the technique and the Instructor certification course please go to www.urbanpoling.com.

If you are interested in learning more about SportMed's Nordic Walking clinics or are interested in becoming a leader please contact us at info@sportmedbc.com.

Check out the following video with Dr Scott Levine from 'Toronto Living' to find out more about Urban Poling and the Nordic Walking technique: