Online Edition

Propel your Walk into a Full-body Workout …Just Add Poles

Details: Category: October/November 2010 - Thanksgiving Issue; Published on Friday, 01 October 2010 00:00

by Freida Baldwin

Ontarians are taking active living in stride, doing what comes naturally, like walking, to stay fit. Now they have another option, one that has been taking the fitness world by storm – Urban Poling. Urban Poling - also called Nordic walking, or pole walking, – is a full-body, cardiovascular exercise that engages the arms, back, stomach, and legs. Many fitness experts agree that Urban Poling is one of the safest and yet most effective forms of exercise because it burns up to 46% more calories and increases your cardiovascular workout by 25% compared to walking. The growing trend of Urban Poling can be seen throughout Ontario. Its popularity is attributed to the incredible workout that it provides.

Urban Poling involves walking with specialized poles with a rubber boot tip that absorbs vibration for walking on asphalt and propels you forward. It also reduces stress to your hips, knees and ankles and improves stability, balance and posture. It’s easy to learn, fun and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. So why just walk?

Now in our community, you can register for an Urban Poling class in Midland (Sunday morning), Victoria Harbour (Wednesday evening), Penetanguishene (Monday evening) and Midhurst (Monday evening starting October 18). Poles will be supplied for the classes at no extra cost. We explore a different trail each week.

For more information contact local certified Urban Poling instructor Frieda Baldwin 705-245-1005 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or check www.urbanpoling.com.

Urban Poling / Nordic Walking Schedule Fall 2010

Township of Tay (Victoria Harbour)
Community Centre, Victoria HarbourWednesdays 6 pm - 7:30 pm
September 15 - November 3, 2010 (8 classes)
Cost: $32, early bird by Sept. 7 $ 28 (+ HST)
To register: Township of Tay 534-7248 ext 235
http://www.tay.ca/Community/SummerProgramGuide/index.htm

Town of Midland
Entrance to the North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre
Sundays 9 am to 10:30 am
September 19, 26,
October 3, 17 and 24, 2010 (5 classes)
Time: Cost: $40
To register call 705-245-1005 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Town of Penetanguishene
Penetanguishene arena
Mondays 6 pm – 7:30 pm
September 20, 27
and October 4, 2010 (3 classes)
Cost: $ 24
To register, call 705-245-1005 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Township of Springwater (Midhurst) Township Office
(2231 Nursery Rd, Midhurst, ON)
Mondays 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
October 18 – November 22, 2010 (6 classes)
Cost: $35
To register contact the Township of Springwater 705-728-4784
www.springwater.ca/community/recreation/