Does Vibration Affect Upper Limb During Nordic Walking?

Abstract

Nordic Walking has become a very popular physical activity. The technique is relatively simple and Nordic Walking poles are cheap and accessible. However, it should be noted that Nordic Walking generates additional loads for upper limb joints in the form of mechanical vibrations, which may not be without effect on exercisers’ health. The aim of this paper is to address the following questions: Does Nordic Walking cause harmful mechanical vibrations? Does the use of poles with amortization reduce the level of vibration? May the mechanical vibration during this exercise be a contraindication to practise Nordic Walking? To answer these questions, the authors used a vibration measurement device, which allowed the researchers to measure vibration according to norm EN ISO 5349 during gait with Nordic Walking poles. Data collected for different types of poles were compared to the regulation of the Polish Minister of Labour and Social Policy 2002.