What you need to know about Nordic walking, the workout that beats HIIT for heart health

Want to boost your heart health? There are plenty of exercises that can help you, but none of them beats Nordic walking, according to researchers at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute in Canada.

Nordic walking, a low-impact form of exercise, originated as a summer activity in Finland in the 1930s. It's not like an ordinary stroll – it involves using your arms and feet with specially designed poles that help propel your body forward. It's also used for weight loss and to reduce the risk of other medical conditions, including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

There are different techniques. "Double poling" involves planting two poles symmetrically in front of you and pulling yourself forward as you walk, according to Harvard University cardiologist, Dr Aaron Baggish.