Nordic Walking is the new fitness activity targeted to people looking for an effective, time-efficient total body exercise with minimal impact.

It increases intensity by 40 percent, while reducing the impact on joints. Sally Richards, director of the Nordic Walking Company, is bringing Colorado residents to the forefront of this new trend, which has been sweeping Europe for the last few years. This is the first program of its kind in the Western United States

Why Nordic Walking?
-It burns 25 to 40 percent more calories than regular walking, while not having to walk longer or faster

-It is a low-stress, total body workout , Great for weight loss and cross-training

-Nordic Walking is a great option for those who suffer from overuse injuries from high-impact sports and "Boomeritis."

-The perception of exertion is diminished by the fact that so many muscles are sharing the workload.

-Equipment is simple... adjustable Fittrek Nordic walking poles (not to be confused with heavier 'trekking poles') with exchangeable tips ensure that the poles are adhering to the ground surface for maximum benefit, stability and upper-body training.

Technique can make a difference and it is recommended to take a clinic to make sure you are getting the maximum benefit from your workout

Nordic Walking can be done anywhere...paved roads, dirt roads or trails, bike paths tracks or even in malls

Richards has coached fitness and race walking in Colorado for the last 13 years. Her classes and clinics are offered by Nordic Walking Company: Clinics on technique and use of equipment, offered in Evergreen and Denver.

Extended classes, Group walks & Adventures
Equipment to purchase: Adjustable Nordic Walking Poles and manual

To inquire about Sally's Orientation Clinics and Equipment Demosheld to introduce Nordic Walking to the general public call 303-674-2144 .

A.C.E. Certified Instructor Training & Workshop will be offered on Sept. 23 in Evergreen. Call for details

The Portland Marathon, October 1, 2006, will host the first Nordic Walking World Championships. Join Sally and others there! Go to www.portlandmarathon.org for more information.

For more info, please call 303-674-2144 or go to www.nordicwalkingco.com

Sally Richards is a certified Nordic walking trainer who was inducted into the Colorado Sportswomen Hall of Fame in 2000. She is a former member of US National Racewalking Team and current holder of the World Masters 3,000-meters racewalking record.