February 14, 2012 11.12 am This story is over 157 months old

Nordic walkers stride the Lincoln 10k

Striding out: A group of people have decided to walk the 10k, but not just the typical type of walking…

While many run or jog the Lincoln 10k, a small number of entries will be taking part in a special form of walking.

Nordic walking isn’t like a typical form of walking — poles are used to propel a walker along, which makes use of upper and lower body muscles.

The group will be led around the six-mile course by Martin Thomas of Mandarin Leisure, who aims to complete the course in under two hours.

Thomas said: “Nordic walking is a derivative of cross-country skiing – the technique is used during off-season training when snow is not available.

“Some of the group have been nordic walking for a year, while others have joined very recently and they have all progressed their techniques at their own individual rates. We will probably split into two or three smaller groups as the race goes on.

“Not only will this be a first for the Lincoln 10K, but it will be the first time that most members of the group have entered a race of any kind.

“I would like to thank the Lincoln 10K organisers for allowing us to take part in the race, and hope it will showcase the activity enough to encourage others to try this low impact and very sociable form of exercise.”

Race organiser from the City of Lincoln Council Keith Taylor said that it’s good to see a variety of entrants this year.

“Over the years, we’ve had all sorts of people taking part in the Lincoln 10K. Usually, people set off with the aim of running at least some of the course, and this is the first time we’ve had a group of dedicated walkers.

“We’re always trying to make the Lincoln 10K accessible for everyone, which is why we have the school and parent races the day before the main race, and we’re glad to welcome the Nordic walkers on Sunday, March 25.”

Place are still available for those wanting to sign up to the main race event on March 25, or the Buggy Push and primary and secondary school races on March 24.

For more information, contact the Lincoln 10K Coordinator on 01522 873771 or by email, and follow the Lincoln 10k Twitter.

Source: City of Lincoln Council | Photo: Mandarin Leisure