Nordic Walking Comes to the Frontenacs for Charity

Kelli McRobert | Apr 26, 2023

In Finland, they have already seen the benefits of Nordic walking and have been reaping the benefits since it was first formally defined by Mauri Repo in 1979. Originally, it was used to continue training for off-season skiers as an activity to maintain fitness and strength using one-piece ski poles. Since then, hikers, and ski racers have been walking and hill-bounding using the poles, and by 1988 fitness walkers were using specially designed poles produced by Exerstrider. In 1997, Nordic walker poles were produced and mass marketed and the term Nordic walking became popular in 1999.

Unlike basic walking, Nordic walking, involves the application of force to the poles with each stride.

“Nordic walkers use more of their entire body (with greater intensity) and receive fitness building stimulation not present in normal walking … that may result in significant increases in heart rate at a given pace” is how Wikipedia describes the way it works, adding that “Nordic walking has been estimated as producing up to a 46% increase in energy consumption, compared to walking without poles.”

While the poles are significantly shorter than those used for cross country skiing, the poles come in a telescopic version that is adjustable to the walker, and an Urban Pole is one of the leaders. As with any product, it is advisable to ‘try before you buy’, and the upcoming event allows participants to experience the sport and equipment during an introductory clinic. Fun, friendly, informative, and inclusive.

On May 4th, there will be a group starting out from the Harrowsmith Cataraqui trailhead (Hwy 38/Railway/Opposite Centex Gas) for a walk to show how great this sport is and to introduce newcomers to Nordic walking and the Urban Pole brand.

Kari Galasso, an Urban Poling Master Trainer, will be leading the group.

She explained that the sport continues to build popularity in the area. She has been running group training sessions for the past 12 years, and continues to witness physical improvements and transformations, with current and former Nordic walkers. The sport is one that can be easily understood, and participants will have a solid grasp of equipment, technique, form, and function, after the clinic.

During the May 4th gathering, all proceeds ($15.00/person) will be donated to South Frontenac Community Services, in support of their extensive programs for seniors. Kari has been a volunteer for the past 6 years with the organization and hopes to continue to support their fundraising for the centre upcoming expansion. She is passionate about Nordic Walking, and says it is a sport that all can participate in and benefit from both physically and mentally.

“Anyone with an ailment can benefit from this low impact activity that gets you outdoors, in all weather, active, and engaged with nature and your surroundings.

It is is her hope that residents will come out and join the group on May 4th at 5 PM for a 90-minute session. Time to get outside and try something new. Grab a friend or come and make new ones.

For more information, or to register, please contact Kari at 613-328-9079 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..