A WEST Devon tourism and business organisation tried a new sport to the area this month. Members of Drake's Dartmoor enjoyed an introductory taster session to Nordic walking on moorland around Yelverton. The introduction to Dartmoor of this relatively new sport is the brainchild of Drake Dartmoor's project manager, Susanne Martin. Susanne said: 'Meeting Elaine Sylvester, a Nordic walking instructor and Dartmoor National Park Guide, was the final impetus I needed to introduce my father's favourite physical activity into this area for locals and visitors alike. 'Nordic walking is very popular in other European countries, especially in my native Germany, and its neighbours Austria and Switzerland.' The sport developed from the summer training of cross-country skiers in Scandinavia and offers an all round fitness training that is only equalled by rowing. It uses 90% of muscles, especially the upper body, whereas running, for example uses 70%. Walking with poles is 40-50% more effective than normal walking. It burns around 400 calories an hour and reduces stress to hips, knees and ankles, so that it provides a safe stamina training for all ages and fitness levels. The new initiative has been supported by the 5x30 Project, which encourages and supports local communities to be 'more active, more often' by promoting physical activity and healthy living. Elaine and Susanne hope that Nordic walking will not only provide a new physical activity for local people, but also an extra reason for visitors to come to Dartmoor, either to learn the new sport or experience the National Park's beauty and versatility.
