Nordic Pole Walking and Depression

Exercise in general leads to better mental health. Active people experience the feeling of well-being following some form of exercise. This is due to the increased blood flow and the endorphins released in your body; the feel-good hormones. These hormones help to bring your mood in balance, suppress anxiety, depression and many more mental illnesses.

A German study, and reports from Nordic Pole Walkers, shows that this form of exercise has more positive psychological effects than regular walking.

You have to be focused on your Pole Walking technique (similar to golf) and your negative thoughts are set beside.

C. Willemer, K. Kruger, F.C. Mooren, K. Volker, S. Knecht and A. Floel, University of Muenster,Germany, 2008

• Methods: In a longitudinal approach, we assessed 43 healthy elderly adults (52 – 78 years old, mean 62.5 years + 6.8) for depression (Becks Depression Inventory, BDI). Level of physical activity and aerobic fitness was also taken before and after intervention. Participants were stratified into the Nordic Walking group (n = 19) or the control group (stretching and toning, n = 24). Each group took part in the respective intervention 3 times a week for 45 min.

• Results: Results showed a strong trend for improved BDI scores (p = 0.052) after 6 months of exercise, compared to the control group.

• Solution: This study demonstrated that Nordic Walking for 6 months reduces self reported depression scores. Possible mediators of this effect include both exercise and the enriched environment of the outdoor activity.