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It’s not snowing outside but Firaya Sultannova, the reigning Boston Marathon Masters record holder and a member of Foot Solutions Elite Running Team, is training for the upcoming race using modified ski poles and innovative shoes that take the pressure off her aging joints and tendons. Sultannova, a real contender to win the women’s masters title at the July 4th Peachtree Race in Atlanta, is training for the competition using Chung Shi Nordic Pole walking, a hot new exercise trend, that is gaining popularity with runners and walkers worldwide.
For Sultannova, who participates in a major race three or four times a month, Chung Shi Nordic Pole Walking has been a lifesaver for her overworked 46 year old body. She uses Chung Shi Nordic Pole Walking as a cross training exercise to build core strength and stability in a non-stressful way.
Nordic Pole Walking, often described as cross-country skiing without the skis, exercises the entire body encouraging an upright posture and balance without placing unnecessary stress on the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Participants use their arms to push off from their flexible poles, engaging the entire range of upper-body muscles. The poles relieve lower body strain and tone the shoulders, arms, and back. The sport, which got its start 10 years ago in Europe, is enjoyed by more than 4 million people worldwide. It is just recently gaining popularity in the U.S.
Sultannova further enhance her Nordic Pole workout by wearing Chung Shi shoes. The shoes, exclusively available at Foot Solutions, have a uniquely patented angled sole that allows the body to stand and walk in a more aligned position. Chung Shi Nordic Pole Walking increases calorie burning 50 percent over walking or jogging alone.
The overall result is a more effective workout with less stress and wear and tear on the body,” said Foot Solutions Elite Running Coach Margaret Sue Bozgoz.
Chung Shi Nordic Pole Walking is a great training and recovery activity because you are engaging core muscles and creating a stronger more stable body” said Bozgoz. “Posture, circulation and respiration are all enhanced.
The activity, which is gaining popularity among runners at all fitness levels, is also great for novices because it is low impact, easy to do and it allows for social interaction,” Bozgoz said.
The poles used for the exercise do vary from traditional skis used for the slopes. They are lighter and contain straps that enclose the palm of the hand, similar to fingerless gloves. And they have removable rubber tips.
Bozgoz said there is a specific technique used to gain maximum benefits from the exercise.
Nordic Poles, Chung Shi shoes and complimentary instruction is available at more than 230 Foot Solutions locations worldwide including 14 locations in the Atlanta area. Additionally, Balance Walking classes are available at many Foot Solutions locations.
Foot Solutions, a recognized world leader in specialty footwear, custom inserts and technology driven health and wellness products, is one of the first companies to introduce Nordic Pole Walking in the US and is the only company offering the revolutionary Chung Shi shoes that enhance the workout experience due to its unique curved sole.
The company is currently looking for trainers to assist in the introduction of this unique new exercise trend. For more information, visit www.footsolutions.com or call 1-888-FIT-FOOT for the location nearest you.
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