Nordic Walking- a field study of biomechanical loading of the lower extremities
29 Mar 2025
This study investigates the biomechanical loading of the lower extremities during Nordic Walking (NW) compared to regular walking. While some sources claim that NW reduces lower limb load by 30-50%, this study refutes such claims. Conducted with 14 experienced Nordic Walkers and 6 instructors, the research measured vertical ground reaction forces, pole forces, and joint range of motion over a 1575m track. Results indicate no significant reduction in lower limb loading, although a minor decrease (around 4%) was observed at toe-off due to pole use. Conversely, forces at heel contact were slightly higher due to forward acceleration. The study concludes that NW should not be promoted as a joint-load-reducing activity but rather for its physiological and motivational benefits.
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