Nordic Walking | Poles, Clothes & Gear

At decathlon.com.gr you will find a specialized collection with all Nordic walking essentials, designed for this unique total-body exercise that combines cardio training with core strengthening. The range includes technical Nordic walking poles (aluminum or carbon) featuring ergonomic cork grips and specialized wrist straps (gauntlets), replacement rubber asphalt pads, as well as apparel offering shoulder mobility for an unobstructed push. Complete your gear with specialized low-cut Nordic walking shoes with enhanced grip, pole carrying bags, technical fingerless gloves, and an ergonomic water bottle waist belt!

The simplest and most practical method is the right-angle rule (90°). Stand upright with a straight back while wearing your workout shoes, slide your hands through the straps, grip the handles, and place the poles vertically on the ground beside your feet. The correct height is where your elbow forms an exact 90° angle, keeping your forearm parallel to the ground. If you are just taking your first steps in Nordic walking, you can lower them by 2-3 cm for a more comfortable and smooth arm drive.

Because Nordic walking quickly raises your heart rate and body temperature, the ideal outfit is built on 3 lightweight layers:

• Base layer: A thermal, breathable long-sleeve top that wicks away sweat.
• Mid layer (insulation): A lightweight fleece or technical jacket that retains warmth without adding unnecessary bulk.
• Outer layer (protection): A windproof or lightweight waterproof jacket featuring breathable ventilation zones under the arms.
• Bottoms & extremities: Stretchy hiking leggings or trousers that do not restrict a wide stride, a thin beanie, a neck warmer, and dedicated protective gloves.

Nordic walking activates up to 90% of the body's muscles, in contrast to regular walking which mainly exercises the lower body:

• Upper body & arms: Thanks to the active propulsion with the poles, the triceps, shoulders (deltoids), chest, and back muscles work intensively.
• Core: The rotational movement of the torso with every stride exercises the abs and obliques, improving body posture.
• Lower body & joints: It strengthens the glutes, quadriceps, and calves, while simultaneously reducing impact and strain on the knees and lower back by up to 30%!

Yes, dedicated gloves or fingerless gloves are particularly useful because proper technique requires opening your palm and releasing the grip on each backward stride so the gauntlet strap absorbs the propulsion force. This continuous friction can easily cause irritation or blisters on bare skin, especially on longer outings. Additionally, gloves absorb sweat for a more secure hold on the grip, and on colder days they protect fingers from biting wind while preserving essential hand mobility.