Urban poles are a simple way to get more out of walking as a fitness exercise; by employing the upper body, urban poles increase caloric output and engage the whole body. The poles shown above were designed by fitness walking pioneer Tom Rultin and a panel of certified occupational therapists.
Health Benefits
Urban poling has a number of benefits over normal walking:
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- Increases heart rate by 5 – 17 BPM or about 13 % without the perception that you’re working any harder.
- Provides an increase in calorie usage by as much as 46 % – an average hour of activity amounts to 400 cal compared to 260 cal.
- 90 % of body muscles are engaged as compared to 65 % – the abdominal muscles in particular will surprise you!
- Can help to release muscle tension and pain in the neck and shoulder regions – common problems with extended desk-work.
- Reduces the load on the knees and joints by off-loading some of the stress to the upper body. Orthopedic Surgeon J. Richard Steadman of Vail, Colorado says “Walking with poles can reduce the accumulated force by about 6 tons over the course of a mile […] helping to preseve healthy joints”.
Specifications | |
Price | $100 |
Pole | Alloy – Telescopic Adjustable |
Height Range | 4’2 – 6’2 |
Handles | Shock absorbing, hand contoured ERGOCORE Grips |
Feet | Shock absorbing, traction rubber |
Muscles Engaged | Forearm extensors and flexors rear deltoids pectorals broad back muscles |
Sources
Cooper Institute (2002). Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport.