Do you want to add something new to your stay at the spa? Try Nordic walking!

Under the name nordic walking is hidden dynamic fitness walking with the help of special sports sticks. The activity originated in Finland, where it developed from cross-country skiing. "It's a sport for everyone, regardless of age or physical ability. The bonus then can be being outdoors in nature," says the Luhačovice Spa on its website.

Unlike normal walking, the movement is much more efficient and the poles work the upper body more. In addition, the poles can act as a support giving confidence for those who are overweight, for example.

Nordic walking is primarily a health exercise suitable for developing fitness, shaping the body and deepening health without overloading the body. "If you want to try Nordic walking, you will find the ideal opportunity in Luhačovice. The beautiful nature, spa routes and marked hiking trails directly encourage active walks," informs Lázně Luhačovice.

HOW TO BEGIN?

Rent clubs

"Start now, we will be happy to lend you clubs. You can order them at the reception of your hotel," the Luhačovice Spa states on its website. The appropriate length of the sticks can be simplistically calculated as 70% of your height. With the pole resting flat against your body, the angle of your arm and forearm should be about 90 degrees.

What to wear

As with all outdoor activities, appropriate footwear is important. These must be comfortable and fit well. Good quality footwear will increase your comfort, aid good footing and make the activity even more enjoyable. Clothing should ideally be layered. "You never know what kind of weather you're going to get outside. But for starters, the sports clothes you bring with you on your stay will be fine," the spa advises.

Correct walking technique

An upright posture with your head and neck on a natural axis is important for efficiency. Sticks can make the stride longer, but there must not be excessive knee flexion. The movement of the upper limbs is based on the classical style of cross-country skiing, i.e. the alternating crossing of the arms and legs. The correct inclination of the poles is also important.

Nordic walking with an instructor

"Would you like to learn Nordic walking the right way and avoid mistakes that could harm you? We have prepared a 45-minute lesson with our trained physiotherapist just for you. You can enquire at the timing of the treatments or directly at the Spa Polyclinic at tel. number 577 682 341," states the Spa Luhačovice on its website.

The Effects of NORDIC WALKING ON HEALTH AND BODY

- reconditioning after injuries, surgeries

- increasing strength in arms

- improving mobility of the spine and joints of the upper limbs

- relieving weight-bearing joints (knees and hips)

- balancing imbalances of body loading from other sports

- mood enhancement and enjoyment of movement

TIPS FOR TURING ROUTES

Red Route (D. Jurkovic Circuit): To the Dam

• Length of the route: 6 km




• Elevation.-- /wp:list-item -->
  
  
  
• Characteristics. There are many benches, restaurants, or mini-golf stops along the trail.





• Route: post office - Luhačovická dam - Pražská čtvrt - post office





• Interesting places on the route: the Vincentka spring, the statue of Dr. František Veselý, Jestřabí, Water Healing Institute, River and Sun Spa, Villa Valaška, Villa Vlastimil, Augustinian House, dam

Red Route (Circuit D. Jurkovič): Karolínčina vyhlídka

• Length: 3.5 km





• Elevation: 170 m





• Characteristics.-- wp:list-item -->
  
• Route: post office - Štiavnice - bus station - Krátká Street - Branka Street - Lužné Street - Karolínčina vyhlídka - Rumunská Street - Masarykova Street - post office





• Interesting places on the route: the Church of the Holy Family

Blue Route: To the White Cross and back

• Length: 4 km





• Elevation: 170 m





• Characteristics.-- wp:list-item -->
  
• Route: post office - Zatloukalova street - Zálesí hotel - Lužné - Bílý kříž - post office





• Trail Attractions.-- wp:paragraph -->

  Red Route (D. Jurkovič Circuit): To the Lake of Love

  
  
  • Length: 4 km
  
  
  
  
  
  • Elevation: 90 m
  
  
  
  
  
  • Characteristics.-- wp:list-item -->
    
  • Route: post office - Ottovka - Gazebo - Love Lake - post office
  
  
  
  
  
  • Trail Attractions: Love Lake
  
  

  Yellow Route.-- /wp:list-item -->
  
  

• Elevation: 170 m




• Characteristics.-- /wp:list-item -->
  
  
  
• Route: Post Office - Ottovka - Altán - Nad Pražskou čtvrtí - Obora - Řetechov - Post Office