Volunteers go up the pole

THE sight of our brave recruits bounding round the town centre with poles attached to their hands was certainly something to behold.

But to their credit, the gang gave Nordic Walking their all and surprised themselves by actually having a good time.

The method of fitness walking with specially designed poles evolved from off-season ski training activities and has been practised for decades as dry land practise for Nordic skiers. The specialised poles - complete with hand straps - were developed in 1997 and the sport took off from there with an estimated 10 million people around the globe taking part in regular Nordic Walking sessions.

The result is a full-body walking workout burning significantly more calories without working up too much of a sweat.

Known benefits include increased strength in the core muscles, improved balance and stability and increased heart rate. So, technical bit over, how did our volunteers cope?

Well, once they'd got to grips with the poles, co-ordinated their arms and legs and mastered how to stride without doing someone a mischief they were off around the town centre.

A few strange looks from passers by aside, the town-centre circuit proved a hit with the gang. And once we'd managed to steer naughty recruits Chaddy and Big Al away from McDonalds and Up Steps, we were fine.

Group leader Alan Keane tried his best to perfect our technique and by the end of the hour-long session there were some pretty impressive shapes being made along the High Street.

As we made our way back to Oldham Sports Centre the recruits were singing the praises of Nordic Walking and even trying to persuade Alan to put on extra sessions - a resounding success that helped the gang in their quest to lose 10 pounds in 10 weeks.

 If you would like to find out more about Nordic Walking call 0161-621 7124 or visit ww.oldhamoutdoor pursuits.co.uk. Email any questions you may have to Nordic<\@>oldhamoutdoorpursuits.co.uk. Sessions are held every week at Radclyffe Athletics Centre (Tues 6-7pm) and Alexandra Park (Thurs 10-11.30am).