Effects of Nordic walking on physical functions and depression in frail people aged 70 years and above
29 Mar 2025
This study investigated the effects of Nordic walking on physical functions and depression in frail people aged 70 years and above. Twenty frail elderly individuals ≥70 years old were assigned to either a Nordic walking group or general exercise group. The duration of intervention was equal in both groups (3 sessions/week for 12 weeks, 60 min/session). Physical function (balance, upper extremity strength, lower extremity strength, weakness) and depression were examined before and after the interventions. With the exception of upper extremity muscle strength, lower extremity strength, weakness, balance, and depression after Nordic walking demonstrated statistically significant improvement. However, in the general exercise group, only balance demonstrated a statistically significant improvement after the intervention. There were significant differences in the changes in lower extremity muscle strength, weakness and depression between the groups. In conclusion, Nordic walking was more effective than general exercise. Therefore, we suggest that Nordic walking may be an attractive option for significant functional improvement in frail people over 70 years old.
You may be interested in them
30 Mar 2026
Comparative Analysis of Gait Kinematics in Older Adults: Free Walking vs. Nordic Walking with Classic and Mechatronic Poles
23 Mar 2026
How do you walk properly with NW poles? What are the most common mistakes in Nordic walking technique?
9 Feb 2026
Nordic Walking – How to Walk with Poles?
World Original Nordic Walking Federation
Administration office:
JĘDRZYCHOWSKA 20D
65-385 ZIELONA GÓRA, POLAND
office@onwf.org
© 2024 onwf.org | Original Nordic Walking from Finland