Foot Solutions’ head running coach and certified Nordic Pole instructor, Margaret Sue Bozgoz, a U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) is an All-Army marathoner, track runner and road racer who has coached tens of thousands of walkers and runners. She has completed 51 marathons and road races too numerous too count. She started Nordic Pole walking and coaching after retiring from the Army this past summer.

Studies show that training with Nordic Poles increases cardiovascular activity and significantly enhances muscular and aerobic fitness. The sport, got its start in the early 30’s in Finland when cross-country skiers started pole walking as a means to stay fit during their summer training, was officially launched in 1997.

Today, approximately760,000 Finns regularly participate in the sport and the trend has spread throughout Europe. An estimated four million people now participate in this sport regularly.

In North America, the sport is still relatively new, especially in the Southeast. In fact, Foot Solutions, a Georgia based company which specializes in solving foot problems through custom orthotics, specialty footwear, and shoe modification is the first to introduce pole walking to Georgia.

The benefits of Nordic Pole walking include:

• As a recovery exercise after a marathon or triathlon

• Burns 46 % more calories compared to walking without Nordic Poles

• Strengthens the heart and the cardiovascular system

• Incorporating more core and back muscles

• Eliminates aches and pain in the back, neck and shoulders

• Develops better upright posture

• Strengthens the immune system

• Stress Management

For more information on Nordic Pole walking, come to the Peachtree City Running Club’s monthly meeting on Monday, Feb. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wyndham Peachtree Executive Conference Center or visit www.footsolutions.com

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