If you've ever seen a group of Nordic Walkers striding confidently with poles in hand, you might wonder: why the straps? Unlike hiking poles or trekking poles, Nordic Walking poles are designed with specialised hand straps, and there's a very good reason for that. In fact, there are several.
In this blog post, we'll explore why hand straps are not only essential for proper technique, but also how they make Nordic Walking more effective, more inclusive, and more comfortable.
1. Safe and Easy to Use
Modern Nordic Walking hand straps are designed with safety and convenience in mind. Most high-quality poles feature ergonomic gloves or straps that can be easily unclipped from the handle with a simple press or click. This makes it easy to release the pole if you need to take a drink, tie a shoelace, or adjust your clothing—without having to remove the entire strap.
Some people new to Nordic Walking worry about the potential to trip or fall while using poles. In reality, such incidents are rare, especially with proper technique and instruction. In fact, poles often help walkers feel more stable and confident, particularly on uneven terrain. The quick release design is simply there as a practical feature, not because falls are common.
2. Full Arm Extension and Push Phase
One of the biggest differences between Nordic Walking and regular walking is the use of the upper body. With each stride, Nordic Walkers push back through the pole using their arm and shoulder muscles.
The strap is what makes this possible. Rather than gripping the pole tightly throughout the motion, the walker can push through the strap during the backward phase of the arm swing. This allows for full extension of the arm behind the body, activating the triceps, shoulders, and back muscles.
Why does this matter?
The full arm extension:
* Improves posture and spinal alignment
* Engages more muscles for a full-body workout
* Burns more calories compared to ordinary walking
* Builds strength and endurance in the upper body
3. Comfort and Accessibility: Arthritis-Friendly Design
For individuals with arthritis or reduced grip strength, Nordic Walking straps can be a game-changer. The design allows the user to relax their grip while walking, relying on the strap to keep the pole secure.
This reduces the strain on finger joints and muscles, making the activity more accessible to those who might otherwise struggle with using fitness equipment. It’s a great example of inclusive design in action.
Instructors often note how older adults or people managing long-term health conditions benefit from the ability to let go of the handle during the backward swing and re-grip easily as the hand returns forward.
4. Supporting Lymphatic Health
Nordic Walking has been shown to benefit people living with lymphoedema, particularly after breast cancer treatment. The pumping action of the arms, assisted by the poles, helps support lymphatic drainage.
Hand straps make this movement possible without requiring a tight grip, which might otherwise cause strain or discomfort. This gentle, rhythmic movement can aid circulation and encourage the healthy flow of lymph, especially when guided by a qualified instructor.
5. Better Pole Control and Technique
Hand straps help walkers maintain proper pole position and timing. With a secure strap, the pole stays aligned with the hand throughout the movement, improving control and coordination.
This is particularly useful for beginners, who might otherwise drop or misplace the pole. It also allows for more confident and fluid movement over time, contributing to a better walking experience.
6. Improved Efficiency and Reduced Fatigue
Because the strap supports the wrist and hand, it distributes the workload more evenly across the upper body. This can reduce local fatigue in the hand muscles, especially during longer walks.
Walkers often find they can go further and faster when using proper technique with straps, because their grip isn’t doing all the work. It’s a small adjustment that yields big results.
Conclusion: The Strap is More Than a Strap
In Nordic Walking, the hand strap isn’t just a convenient add-on—it’s a fundamental part of the technique. From enabling full arm extension to making the activity more accessible for those with arthritis or lymphoedema, the humble strap plays a key role in why Nordic Walking is so effective and enjoyable.
So next time you strap in, remember: those little loops around your hands are doing a lot more than meets the eye!
👉 Find your local class or instructor today!