The number one form of physical activity in Canada and indeed, globally, is walking. It is so enjoyable. It requires no skill acquisition. We have been walking since we were toddlers. You can just step outside and off you go, with the only required equipment being a good pair of walking shoes. No membership fees are required. If it were a drug, it would be making headlines in the print media. It would be a leading topic on TV news because of its illness preventing power, because of its health-restoring potential, because it is more powerful than most drugs for improving mental health. But there is no multi-national corporation selling it so walking is not in the spotlight. Because it is free and doesn’t require a doctor’s prescription, it is hugely under-rated as an effective treatment for so many illnesses. However, google “walking is a wonder drug” and you will see lots of evidence-based articles, from presentations to the Canadian Senate by Green Communities Canada to publications from the Harvard Medical School.
“After four million years of development and improvement, our bodies have been fine-tuned to walk. Evolution has made the ability to walk a priority. Not only have we had to walk for survival – to pick fruit or reach the river, but our bodies have also needed to walk to continue to function normally. In fact, when we stop walking for any length of time, our bodies start to go into decline.” – Walking for Health, Dr. William Bird & Veronica Reynolds
The Additional Benefits of Urban Poling/Nordic Walking
If walking is indeed a wonder drug, then Urban Poling/Nordic walking is the extra, extra strength dose, multiplying and adding to the mental and physical health benefits:
What to wear & bring (Spring, Summer, Fall):
What to wear & bring (Winter):
Experiences
Reserve OnLine:
It’s as easy as 1-2-3! Simply click the "Book Now" button, select your preferred date to check availability, fill in your personal details and then make a secure payment via credit card. The system will automatically send you a confirmation of your session with the relevant details.
Liability Waiver:
Liability waivers are a necessary part of any commercial activity experience. I recommend that you take the time now to review this legal document that you will be required to sign before we start our clinic or walk together:
View the WaiverYour Health & Physical Activity Readiness:
We ask guests who are experiencing cold symptoms and symptoms of COVID-19 to stay home and practice self-isolation under the direction of the appropriate governing body. For almost everyone, the benefits of physical activity far outweigh any risks. For some individuals, special advice from a Qualified Exercise or health care provider is advisable before becoming more active. This questionnaire is intended for all ages – to help move you along the path to becoming more physically active.
Please review this Questionnaire if you have concerns about your health or fitness level for participating in Nordic walking.
Cancellation Policy:
Full refunds are given if a cancellation is received 24 hours or more prior to the clinic or tour date. No refunds are given with less than 24 hours notice. Clinics/tours go rain or shine. If the weather is extreme, then it may be cancelled with a full refund given.
Parking:
Parking is available on-street or in public lots throughout Canmore. It is a good idea to arrive early on busy days to locate suitable parking.
Restrooms:
Restrooms are available at the Malcolm hotel in the lobby.
Restrooms:
Public restrooms are available within a short walk:
Restrooms:
Public pit toilets are available at all trailheads.
Where to meet:
Starting locations will vary seasonally with instructions included in your booking confirmation.
Parking:
Parking options will vary by location with details included in your booking confirmation.