This quick before/after video shows how dramatically Activator poles can improve gait quality and walking confidence.
WITHOUT Activator poles: Slow gait speed, variabe gait (steps not all the same), small tentative steps, flat foot landy, arms static.
WITH Activator poles: faster gait speed, less gait variability, longer steps, more-confident steps, noticeable heel strikes, arms active. Hurrah!
Benefits of Activator poles
Improved balance and stability
Walking with Activator poles provides a consistent two points of contact with the floor. The unique ergonomic handles make it easy and comfortable to add the poles to standard walking.Improved posture
The forward and backward action of the arms activates the muscles between the shoulder blades, helping to pull the shoulders back into proper alignment. Pressing down on the ledges of the handles also encourages a more-upright posture.Reduced joint impact
Offloading weight into the poles helps absorb some of the force as the heels land with each step. This makes them very helpful for individuals with joint pain or arthritis.Full-Body Workout
Activator walking poles engage muscles in the arms, shoulders, legs and core muscles creating a simultaneous workout for both the upper and lower body.
Did you know?
Activator poles and Nordic walking poles are different
Activators are classified as walking poles or an ambulatory device; they have a large bell-shaped rubber tip and a very secure button lock system (that keeps the poles locked at the correct height). Nordic walking poles have boot-shaped tips, and the locking system is a flip lock or twist lock.Activator walking technique and Nordic walking technique are very different
Activator users keep their elbows at a constant 90 degree angle, swing their arms forward and back in a “cho coo train” fashion, and keep their poles vertical.
Nordic walkers tend to walk more vigorously, and they keep their arms very long swinging them like long pendulums. They keep their poles angled back at a constant 45 degree angle.Get some training
It’s ideal to have at least one lesson from a fitness professional or physiotherapist who has Activator training. Check this link to find someone in your area.“Activator” is a brand name of Vancouver walking pole company Urban Poling Inc.
