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Purchase a set of Nordic walking poles. Purchase poles that fit your height and walking stride. Purchase poles with comfortable wrist straps. Decide if you would like to stick to walking on pavement or walk on hiking trails. Wear regular walking shoes on pavement and hiking shoes on trails.
Although you may see some people walking with regular ski poles, it is important to purchase poles specific to Nordic walking. These poles will have many necessary accessories, such as proper hand straps and different attachments to the bottom of the poles depending on your terrain.  These poles cost as little as $70 for an entry-level set. Purchasing a proper set of Nordic walking poles will give you more freedom and comfort as your exercise regimen becomes more intense and as you begin changing your walking terrain. The most important thing about pole fitting is that your new poles touch the ground while your elbows are at 90 degrees and feel comfortable as you walk. Some poles are adjustable and some are not, so consider this while making your purchase.  If your poles are not adjustable, be sure choose properly fitted poles before you leave the store. If your poles are adjustable, be sure they fit this requirement before you leave the store. Wrist straps allow for a release of the pole on your backstroke without dropping the pole, and cause the pole to return to your hand in the right position as you bring your arm back into place. Many professionals believe it is important to be able to let go of the pole after you push, which is only possible through means of a wrist strap. Although wrist straps are not vital to Nordic walking, they are recommended and should be taken into consideration while purchasing poles. Although many people do Nordic walking on pavement, you may also take advantage of other terrains. Nordic walking can be done while hiking in the mountains or on other dirt trails, working as an alternative to walking sticks.  If you are walking on pavement, use the attachable rubber pads that cover the bottom of the pole. These rubber pads should come with your Nordic walking pole, so double check that they are included before you purchase. If you are walking on dirt, utilize the metal spike at the end of your Nordic Walking poles. Depending on how far you plan to walk and what terrain you plan to walk on, quality walking shoes are very important. If you plan on changing the terrain that you usually walk on, consider purchasing new, more appropriate shoes.