It’s a beautiful day for a walk. Don’t forget your ski poles!

What’s up with the ski poles? 

Nordic walking is catching on as a chic and effective exercise trend – no snow required. Bernd Zimmermann, president of the American Nordic Walking Association, says it’s easy to do, safe, affordable and effective – and it’s catching on. Nordic walking is better for your health than regular walking because it engages the upper body and gets you breathing more fresh air. You’ll also burn up to 40% more calories walking Nordic style.

Before you dust off your old ski poles – you might want to consider investing in the real thing. Nordic walking poles come with interchangeable tips to grip different types of terrain. They’re made of lightweight aluminum or carbon and range in price from $25 to $200.