By Peter A. Schmitt, PT, DPT, MS
While in Oberstdorf, Germany, Dr. Schmitt’s interest was piqued by residents of all ages using what looked like ski poles to walk on dry land. His subsequent research revealed a body of evidence-based literature indicating significant value of the technique for both able-bodied and disabled persons alike. Dr. Schmitt will discuss the history of Nordic walking, its inception and progression. Demonstration will include proper technique as well as some simple exercises that can be done with Nordic walking poles. He will also show examples of different pole designs and discuss equipment selection based on the pros and cons of each. The presentation will include a free raffle drawing for a set of Nordic walking poles.
Peter A. Schmitt, PT, DPT, MS, is a retired Doctor of Physical Therapy with a 45-plus year career in the Chicago area. His clinical and management roles within multiple settings included a wide range of patient diagnoses with eventual areas of specialization predominantly focused on diabetes prevention, amputees, neurological conditions, and movement disorders (including Parkinson’s Disease) within the geriatric population. In the course of expanding his clinical “toolbox”, he trained as a Nordic Walking instructor through the American Nordic Walking Association (ANWA). Dr. Schmitt has presented at the Rush University Hospital Movement Disorders Patient Symposium, demonstrating the poles’ value in improving gait in Parkinson’s patients.
