Introduction
If you’ve been researching walking with poles, you’ve probably come across two terms:
Nordic Walking and Total Body Walking®.
At first glance they may look similar. Both involve walking with poles and both aim to improve fitness while enjoying the outdoors.
However, the two approaches have different origins, equipment designs, and teaching methods.
Understanding these differences helps you choose the approach that best suits your goals — whether that’s fitness, rehabilitation, hiking performance, or simply enjoying a more effective walk.
What Is Nordic Walking?
Nordic Walking originated in Finland as off-season training for cross-country skiers.
Skiers would train during the summer by walking with poles to replicate the movement used when skiing.
Over time, this training method became a standalone activity and spread across Europe and later the UK.
Traditional Nordic Walking typically involves:
poles with strap systems similar to ski poles
a technique inspired by cross-country skiing
exaggerated arm swings
a strong push through the pole straps
The technique is often taught in structured stages and can feel quite technical when first learning.
What Is Total Body Walking®?
Total Body Walking® is a modern evolution of pole walking, designed to make the activity more natural, accessible, and adaptable for a wider range of people.
Rather than focusing on ski-based technique, Total Body Walking builds on the natural human walking pattern.
It uses ergonomic, strapless walking poles designed to support:
natural arm swing
improved posture
balance and coordination
whole-body engagement
The aim is simple: to make everyday walking more effective for fitness, wellbeing and rehabilitation.
The Key Differences
1. Movement Style
Nordic Walking
Derived from ski training
Strong emphasis on pushing through straps
Technique can feel exaggerated for beginners
Total Body Walking
Based on natural walking movement
Focuses on smooth arm swing and posture
Easier for beginners to learn and adapt
2. Pole Design
Nordic Walking Poles
Usually include hand straps
Often based on ski pole designs
Require correct strap technique
Total Body Walking Poles
Strapless ergonomic handles
Designed for whole-hand engagement
Allow natural grasp-and-release
This design can make the poles feel more comfortable and intuitive.
3. Accessibility
Nordic Walking
Often taught as a specific technique
May feel more like a coached sport
Total Body Walking
Designed to be flexible and inclusive
Suitable for beginners, older adults, and fitness enthusiasts alike
This adaptability makes it useful for:
rehabilitation walking
balance and stability training
fitness workouts
endurance walking and hiking
4. Exercise Approach
Nordic Walking
Typically focuses on technique and rhythm.
Total Body Walking
Combines walking with:
posture training
strength drills
balance exercises
functional movement
This creates a broader whole-body training system.
Is One Better Than the Other?
Not necessarily.
Both approaches encourage people to move more and enjoy outdoor activity.
However, they suit different preferences.
Nordic Walking may appeal to people who enjoy learning a defined technique with structured coaching.
Total Body Walking may appeal to those who prefer a more natural walking style with a wider range of applications — from rehabilitation to fitness training.Why Many Walkers Are Moving Toward Total Body Walking
As understanding of biomechanics and ergonomics has improved, pole design and teaching methods have continued to evolve.
Many walkers find that strapless ergonomic poles:
feel more comfortable
encourage natural movement
reduce wrist strain
allow easier coordination
This is one reason why Total Body Walking has grown in popularity in recent years.
Which Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your goals.
If you are interested in:
learning a traditional technique rooted in skiing
following a structured sport-style method
Nordic Walking may suit you.
If you are looking for:
a natural walking movement
improved posture and balance
flexible fitness training outdoors
Total Body Walking may be the better fit.
Final Thoughts
Walking with poles — whether through Nordic Walking or Total Body Walking — can significantly improve the benefits of a regular walk.
The important thing is choosing an approach that feels natural, enjoyable and sustainable for you.
For many people, Total Body Walking offers a simple way to turn an everyday walk into a full-body workout while still feeling like natural movement.
Try Total Body Walking for Yourself
If you’d like to experience Total Body Walking® first-hand, you can join a local WALX session and try the technique with guidance from experienced instructors.
A short session is often the easiest way to feel the difference.
