Dr Michael Mosley's '90s-style' walking method that can burn fat and help back pain

A new study highlights the potential benefits of Nordic walking, a 1990s-era exercise technique popularised by the late Dr Michael Mosley, which may aid in burning fat and alleviating back pain. According to research cited by Mosley on the BBC's Just One Thing series, Nordic walking involves the use of poles to enhance the effectiveness of walking, turning it into a full-body workout. Nordic walking, originally developed as a summer training method for skiers, has grown in global popularity due to its accessibility and health benefits. Unlike traditional walking, this form of exercise engages both the upper and lower body, leading to increased calorie expenditure and muscle engagement. A recent Italian study compared two groups, one practicing Nordic walking and the other engaging in brisk walking, over a period of six months. Participants in the Nordic walking group demonstrated notable reductions in body fat, according to Mosley, who attributed this to the activation of nearly double the number of muscles compared to conventional walking. Research also suggests that Nordic walking may offer relief for individuals suffering from chronic lower back pain. In a separate study involving 80 participants, those who participated in Nordic walking sessions experienced a marked decrease in pain levels. These individuals completed ten one-hour training sessions over four weeks, resulting in enhanced fitness, strength, and flexibility. Additionally, participants noted improvements in their mental health, indicating broader psychological benefits associated with the activity. Further evidence supporting the efficacy of Nordic walking emerged from a study conducted by Dr Jennifer Reed at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. This research involved rehabilitation patients with heart disease, who were divided into three groups: Nordic walking, moderate training equivalent to 30-45 minutes of elliptical training, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). After 12 weeks of exercising twice weekly, the Nordic walking group showed the most significant improvements in functional capacity, defined as the ability to perform daily activities requiring physical effort. Functional capacity was assessed through a six-minute walk test, measuring how far participants could walk in six minutes on an indoor track. Dr Reed elaborated on the benefits of Nordic walking, stating that it enhances upper and lower body strength, core strength, and posture. Regular use of Nordic walking poles contributes to improved gait and walking speed, all of which play a role in enhancing functional capacity. The study's findings suggest that Nordic walking offers substantial advantages for individuals seeking to improve their physical capabilities and overall health. To engage in Nordic walking, individuals simply need to grip the pole and press down on the ground as they walk. At the end of each stride, the hand is released from the pole, and the straps are used to pull the pole back up to the starting position. This technique allows for a dynamic and efficient form of exercise that can be performed anywhere, making it an accessible option for improving physical health and addressing specific ailments such as back pain.