Malin Svensson, (center) president of Nordic Walking US, takes her class through some walking drills on Saturday, May 5, 2007 at Santa Monica Beach. One of the most effective activities for burning calories and building cardio-vascular fitness is cross-country skiing because both large upper and lower body muscles are fully engaged. Imagine learning a technique, for all fitness levels, where you can achieve similar benefits year round, without snow, and without increased perceived exertion! Nordic Walking is regular walking made up to 40% more effective by the use of specifically designed hand-held Nordic Walker® poles.