Walk like a Norse

Curious onlookers could not help but stop and stare when a group of walkers with Nordic walking poles strapped around their wrists burst into a brisk walk around Korsman Bird Sanctuary on August 19.

Paying careful attention to their technique, under the guidance of Lorha de Waal, the seven attended the first Nordic Walk hosted in Gauteng, hoping it would become a regular occurrence.

Born and raised in Putfontein, De Waal became a regular at various marathons. The pace was her stress relief, and crossing the line inspired her to push harder.

“As it often is for runners, I suffered extensive damage to my knees, thus bringing my running career to an end,” she said.

“Simple things like steady-paced walking were agonising, but I refused to accept this was the end of my fitness regime.”

Soon after buying a wine farm in Slavinia (part of present-day Germany and Poland), De Waal’s interest was piqued when watching native Slavs traverse nearby hiking trails using walking poles.

“They were walking in a manner I had never seen before, keeping the poles behind their heels and using them to propel them forward instead of leaning forward onto it,” she said.

“I soon learnt this technique is used as a summer training sport for cross-country skiers and is one of the most effective cross-training techniques for athletes and sportspeople.

“I gave it a bash and found it was an interesting new way to stay active. I experienced no physical discomfort or pain.”

She explained that although she had now adopted Nordic walking as a competitive sport and competed in the World Cup in Poland last year, this was a fantastic form of exercise because it had 30% less impact on the joints, making it ideal for persons of varying fitness levels and ages.

Mandi Baldry of Victory Park jumped at the opportunity to join the introductory walk.

“I first learnt about Nordic walking when I was in England but could not find anyone locally who could teach the technique,” said Baldry.

“I could not wait to join in today and will invest in my own poles. It is great exercise and very kind on my back.”

Two decades after being struck by lightning, Creig Beaton of Northcliff said he had battled with his feet.

“I walk slowly but think this could help me become more active.”

Joan Nel of Benoni could not tame her excitement.

“I have found a sport for me,” she said.

De Waal hoped the walk at Korsman would be the first of many and spark the interest of community members looking for a new way to stay fit and build strength and stamina.

“This is a great sport for everyone, and entire families can join in,” said De Waal.

For more information, WhatsApp De Waal on 082 579 1631.

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