The phenomenon of Nordic walking has been gaining popularity, and it’s becoming increasingly common to spot hikers with specialized poles along the trails of the Low Tatras. Nordic walking is an effective way to burn calories, stay in shape, and enjoy time outdoors with family or friends.
Roots in Cross-Country Skiing
The origins of Nordic walking date back to the 1930s, when Finnish cross-country skiers used their ski poles for summer training. Because it required minimal equipment, the activity gradually spread throughout Northern Europe and eventually across the world. Nordic walking is especially popular in German-speaking countries, but it has also built a strong following in neighboring Czechia.
A Sport for Everyone
Nordic walking is one of the few sports that almost anyone can do, regardless of age or athletic ability. It doesn’t matter whether you’re climbing mountain peaks or simply enjoying a walk on flat terrain. Whether you’re under the blazing summer sun or in the middle of winter, its simplicity and affordability make it accessible to literally anyone who loves being active outdoors. Nordic walking uses a smooth, dynamic motion that combines brisk walking with movements similar to running. With each step, your shoulders open up and the poles help propel your body forward. Because your arms and legs move in sync, you engage up to 90% of your body’s muscles. That full-body involvement can help you burn up to 40% more calories compared to regular walking.
Better Posture and Full-Body Benefits
Nordic walking also helps build upper-body strength, especially in the shoulders, back, and chest. A 2003 study showed noticeable improvements in posture among people who practiced it regularly. In today’s world—where so many people spend hours sitting at computers—improving natural, healthy posture is more important than ever. Walking with poles can also reduce the impact placed on your joints. This is especially beneficial for people dealing with knee or hip issues, as well as those who are overweight. The poles help absorb shock, improve coordination and balance, and provide valuable support—something that can be particularly useful during rehabilitation after an injury. And last but definitely not least, Nordic walking can do wonders for mental well-being. Even just 30 minutes of active movement outdoors can help reduce built-up stress and act as a reset for an overworked mind.
Hikes from hotel
During your stay at Ski & Wellness Residence Družba****, you’ll have almost endless opportunities to enjoy this outdoor activity. Nordic walking can be the perfect way to explore the natural beauty of Low Tatras National Park and discover the hidden corners of one of Slovakia’s most beloved valleys—Demänovská Valley. You can take an easy walk around Vrbické Pleso, a scenic mountain lake just a few hundred yards from your hotel room, or head out for something more ambitious like Chopok or even Ďumbier, which can be reached via ridge trails from the top of the ski resort. Popular routes also include walks through Demänovské Saddle and Široká Valley, or the hike from Chopok to Poľany Saddle. For more experienced hikers, Chabenec offers a rewarding adventure with its long summit ridge—and from there, it’s just a short trip to the mountain hut at Ďurková.
