HI,

I recently took part in a clinical trial using Nordic Walking Poles for people with peripheral artery disease. The trial is over but I'm still walking with the poles as it's great exercise. I am now back using MFP as I want to walk the Trans Pennine Trail next year and need to get fit.

Because of my condition I was struggling to walk to the bus stop without getting pains in my legs, this has improved during the trial but I still get the pain. When I go out with my poles I regularly manage 5-6km in just over an hour. I still have pain in my legs but the poles help me keep going.

All that aside, using poles means I am also using my upper body so I am getting an all round workout that walking without poles doesn't give.

The down side is the poles aren't cheap to start with (I was very lucky that I could keep the ones from the trial as my payment for taking part!) but if you like walking then I think you will love nordic pole walking!

Enjoy

Josanne