More than 20 years ago we started to use ski sticks for walking in the mountains in order to improve our stability and, most importantly, to prevent our knees from taking more strain than necessary on the downward slopes.

Nowadays, the Himàlaia guides always recommend the use of sticks on their hikings through the mountains, because of the numerous physical and psychological advantages that they provide.

Among these physical advantages, the experts particularly highlight the following:

• Your heart rate increases by 10 to 15 beats per minute when you walk
• An average increase of 13 % in the physical volume achieved 
  
• An increase of between 20% and 46% in energy consumption 
  
• A relaxation of the knees and back during the exercise 
  
• An increase in the lateral stability of knees and ankles, minimizing problems of wear and tear and possible injuries
  
• A strengthening of the upper part of the body (shoulders, pectorals and arms)
  
• An increase in security against possible slipping
  
• The possibility of maintaining a heart rate of between 120 and 150 beats
  
• The activity can be pursued for longer, and is less tiring, with sticks than without them
  

The psychological benefits provided by Nordic walking, as with trekking, are based on the reduction of stress, contact with the natural environment, social interaction with a group and the mental balance that is achieved through the activity.

The Himàlaia guides are qualified instructors in Nordic walking and will teach you how to pursue this activity in a simple and practical way with the daily excursions that you'll be taking with them through the mountains. The daily hikes offered in the weekly planning in the hotels are ideal for practising this activity since they do not represent changes in altitude that are too difficult to overcome; all you'll need are your specially designed sticks and the enthusiasm to improve your technique in this healthy activity with us.

Equipment required:  comfortable clothes, mountain boots, small rucksack, a waterproof, warm jacket or polo, water, energy bars, sun cream, cap, personal belongings, and camera or camcorder (recommended).

What we provide: loan of sticks, according to availability.
You can reserve a picnic. You need to provide one day’s notice and the picnic will consist of: A baguette, half a litre of water, fruit juice, fruit and an energy bar.

Transport: Himàlaia jeeps and individual cars.