Urban Poling

Urban Poling is a Canadian Nordic walking pole distributor and fitness training company based in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Urban Poling markets Nordic walking poles; and trains fitness instructors and health care professionals on Nordic walking across Canada. It is the largest distributor of Nordic walking poles in Canada and was one of the first companies to start training programs for this activity.

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History

The company was founded in 2005 by occupational therapist Mandy Shintani with the intention of introducing Nordic walking poles into a Canadian fitness and rehabilitation environment.

Products

Urban Poling sell poles and teaches Nordic walking techniques designed by US pole walking pioneer Tom Rutlin with the intention of creating features that effectively target the core muscles and minimize injury. The poles feature ergonomic handles, secure locking system and 3 anti-vibration features including durable rubber tips. In addition, this product design is also informed by the need to improve the safety of Nordic walking, which is why none of the products sold by Urban Poling include straps. Nordic walking poles sold by the company come in two varieties: fitness walking poles and Activator walking poles. The Activator poles were co-developed by Mandy Shintani, OT and were designed for rehabilitation, older adults, and individuals who have chronic conditions that affect their balance and stability.

The training programs offered by Urban Poling are designed to educate fitness instructors and health care professionals in a safe, effective and natural Nordic walking technique. Urban Poling has several master trainers Canada-wide who are authorized to certify local fitness instructors.