Spring is sprung, the grass is riz - grab your poles and get walking!

Submitted by Eesha Mehra, Uxbridge Physiotherapy

Imagine a serene winter landscape bathed in the soft light of a tranquil morning. The air is chilly, yet invigorating as you step out to enjoy an exciting day of cross-country skiing.

Now imagine that you’re right here in Uxbridge, mimicking the motions of cross-country skiing by using poles to propel yourself along one of our many picturesque trails or walkways. Amidst this winter tableau, you spot a lively group of people walking and exercising with poles in Elgin Park. They are members of The Uxbridge Pole Walking Club, established in 2014 by physiotherapist Jodi Bussiere, personal trainer Dale Andrew, and physiotherapy assistant April Ferguson. This year, Eesha Mehra, a recent Life Sciences undergraduate, is joining their team of qualified instructors.

Pole walking and exercise classes are held in Elgin Park each spring and fall, and will recommence this May.

Members of the Uxbridge Pole Walker’s Club in Elgin Park.

“This activity is fantastic for people of all abilities, particularly after being cooped up inside all winter,” says Mehra. “We are assisting people who might not otherwise venture outdoors to exercise and are able to help them increase their level of activity in a safe and enjoyable manner.”

Hour-long classes include a proper warm-up, several walks in scenic Elgin Park, upper and lower body strengthening, and stretching, all with the aid of the walking poles.

Originally developed in European countries as a way for elite cross-country skiers to train during the off-season, urban poling has evolved into a popular addition to walking routines. It adds an upper body component, reduces impact on the lower body, and enhances balance and stability. In fact, Harvard Medical School suggests that walking with nordic poles burns more calories and activates more muscles than conventional walking.

Other benefits of urban poling include an improved posture, faster walking speed, and exercising while having fun! It is particularly beneficial for people with osteoarthritis in their low backs, hips, and knees, as pole walking reduces load on these joints. For individuals recovering from hip or knee surgery, poles provide an added support. Other people who may benefit from the poles are those with osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and even people who are in wheelchairs.

The Uxbridge Pole Walking Club’s spring session starts on May 6, offering three classes per week in beautiful Elgin Park. People can even try a class for free and then decide to join. Poles can be purchased at Uxbridge Physiotherapy, or at other stores that sell sporting goods.

For registration details, visit www.uxbridgepolewalking.com. The group looks forward to getting started next month, and welcomes new members.

Submitted on behalf of Uxbridge Physiotherapy.