Think cross country skiing without the skis in urban settings like sidewalk and city parks.  Walking is Canada’s favourite fitness activity and when you add walking poles, you increase your caloric intake by 20-46% and your cardiovascular output by 25%.   There are  tremendous fitness and health benefits backed by over 58 research studies on the use of walking poles (http://urbanpoling.com/getting-started/benefits-of-nordic-walking-research-findings).  Many of the research studies found that walking poles are a significant motivator for people to adhere to their walking programs and walk further, faster and more frequently.
 
Urban poling may be an option for your website under Great Ideas for Children, Families, Workplace and those with Chronic Conditions.
 
Children and School Based Program:
Many PE teachers have been using this activity because it is inexpensive and accessible for children of all skills levels.  It has been particularly beneficial for children who do not enjoy running or are obese.

Families:
Families can easily participate in this activity as it has benefits for all ages groups and fitness levels.  It is one of the few physical activities that appeals to children and grandparents.

Workplace:
Urban poling allows for workers to complete Canada’s recommended health guide for 30 minutes of brisk activity.  Urban poling is easy to do during lunch hour or coffee break.  Just bring along your poles and a good pair of running shoes and pole on trails, city sidewalks or in the closest park.  No need to drive, take a shower or change after your workout.

Chronic Conditions and Frail Older Adults:
There are over 58 research studies on the benefits of poling including improving balance, posture, stability, reducing impact on knee joints and on chronic conditions such as arthritis, cardiac conditions, diabetes, Parkinson's, back pain and fall prevention.  Here are some studies that could be added to the research section: http://urbanpoling.com/getting-started/benefits-of-nordic-walking-research-findings

We developed walking poles called the Activator poles for less active older adults and for those requiring rehabilitation.    Please click on this link www.activatorpoles.com for information on the Activator technique and training program for recreational therapists and physiotherapists.  
Walking poles can be used by active older adults in seniors community centres to frail senior living in care facilities.  The Activator poles will be recognized by the Canadian Physiotherapy Association in the spring of 2010.  

Nordic walking Instructor Course

Urban Poling/Nordic walking Instructor Certification courses now available in Saskatoon or via on-line. This 4 hour course teaches you the basic technique as well as how to set up classes or group programs.  It is the only course in Canada that is approved for CECs by seven fitness associations in Canada including Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation. 
 
 
Course Recognized by 7 fitness associations
SPRA, BCPRA, AFLCA, MFC, OKA, Can-Fit-Pro and now the Canadian Centre of Activity and Aging (University of Western Ontario)600+ fitness instructors and therapists have graduated from our Certification Course