Nordic pole walking is gaining popularity in many communities as a low impact, full body fitness workout, and it’s also a part of events such as the Times Colonist 10K. Last year was the first time that the Victoria TC 10K had a separate category for Nordic pole walkers, with 25 officially registered.
“Although participation is valued more than speed,” said Linda Schaumleffel, a Nordixx Canada Master Pole walk instructor who was instrumental in introducing Nordic walking at the TC 10K, “how fast do pole walkers go? The fastest solo pole walker crossed the finish line in approximately 75 minutes.”
This year over 60 Nordic pole walking are expected to participate in the TC 10K, including a group from the Comox Valley. “It’s exciting to see the growth of this fitness sport and it’s inclusion in 10Ks and similar events. It’s a great goal to aim for,” said Catherine Egan, Comox Valley’s Nordixx pole walking instructor and distributor. “We have a group of regular Nordic walkers who have started training for this spring event. And there’s still time to get involved.”
New to the 2015 TC 10K, as well, was the inclusion of quad, trio, or duo NPW teams. These groups walk in single file and strategize together to successfully navigate their entire team across the finish line, with the last NPWer on each team setting the time for their team.
“The slowest member of Sole Sisters Quad team,” added Schaumleffel, “was a 5 foot tall, 70 year old, crossing the finish line in approximately 124 minutes to the biggest finish line reception.”
“Just get your Nordic poles out,” said Egan, “and start Nordic walking three to four times a week, building up to 60 – 75+ minutes at a time. I used to participate in 10K runs a few years ago, but the running was hurting my knees. So I’m looking forward to training for this event using my Nordic poles.”
Looking for a group to train with or to learn the Nordic pole walking technique? Call Egan for information on group training times and lessons at 250-897-0654, visit NordicPoleWalkingComoxValley.com, the Facebook page or email cegan10@telus.net. The 2016 Times Colonist 10K is Sunday, April 24. To register visit: http://www.tc10k.ca