BONUS - RUSTENBURG - Nordic walking is a buzz word when it comes to exercise, because walking with a Nordic pole enables you to use 90% of your muscles, burn 45% more calories than normal walking and has 30% less impact on your joints.
Scientific studies show that Nordic walking can have a positive impact on people who suffer from Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as arthritis - blood circulation in your brain can radically improve during the Nordic walk improving brain function. It can also have a positive effect on heart health.
“Nordic walking is not yet very well known in South Africa, but definitely a sport you can practise for excellent health,” says Lohra de Waal, an internationally recognized Nordic walking instructor who recently hosted a Nordic Walking course in De Wildt, North West.
Lohra is passionate about Nordic walking and completed her professional training as an instructor in Slovenia and Croatia. It is her mission to make people aware and cultivate a love for this sport throughout South Africa.
She participated in the Nordic World Cup Championship in Szklarska Poręba, Poland in 2022 and said it was a privilege to represent South Africa internationally.
“Because there is little snow during summer months the Finnish skiers started training with the poles and realised the extreme value of this exercise and in the 1930’s that was the origin of Nordic Walking,” Lohra said. “When the poles are used correctly, they help one to walk upright, which improves posture. It relieves pressure on the joints because part of the body weight can be transferred to the walking poles.”
“There are literally a hundred and ten reasons why people should practice Nordic walking, but one that stands out is South Africa’s is walking in the beautiful landscape, from the coast to the mountains, our country is perfect for Nordic walking.”
Tongue-in-cheek she said that the poles have several purposes, the vibration while walking with the poles can keep snakes off.
“The poles are an excellent protective aid - in the right hands such a pole can deliver quite a comprehensive beating.”
For more information about Nordic walking and where in your area to join a group, call Lohra de Waal on 082 579 1631, send an email to
