1. Purpose of the Strap System

Straps are not just for holding the poles. Their primary functions are:

1.1. Efficient power transfer

The strap allows the force from the arm and shoulder to move through the pole without gripping tightly.

1.2. Relaxed and natural hand movement

Beginners often hold poles too tightly. Straps help maintain a relaxed, fluid movement.

1.3. Proper hand release

Correct Nordic Walking technique requires opening the hand behind the body.
The strap keeps the pole secure during release.

1.4. Safety and stability

A good strap design prevents the pole from slipping or rotating unpredictably.

2. Types of Straps

2.1. Glove-Style Straps

These wrap around the hand like a small glove.

Advantages:

  • Most secure and comfortable

  • Best power transfer

  • Ideal for proper hand release

  • Excellent for teaching correct technique

Disadvantages:

  • Must be fitted by size (left/right)

  • Harder to share among multiple users

Used by most sport and fitness Nordic Walkers.

2.2. Simple Loop Straps

Basic strap with a single loop.

Advantages:

  • Easy to adjust

  • Suitable for group sessions where sharing equipment is common

  • Simple construction

Disadvantages:

  • Less secure

  • More hand tension

  • Harder to teach correct push and release

Works for beginners but not ideal for advanced training.

2.3. Quick-Release Strap Systems

Poles with a button or clip that detaches the glove from the pole.

Advantages:

  • Convenient for adjusting poles

  • Useful for instructors when demonstrating without poles

  • Safer during crowded classes

Disadvantages:

  • Adds weight

  • More expensive

Excellent for coaching situations.

3. Size and Fit

3.1. Correct size

The strap should:

  • wrap comfortably around the hand

  • support the wrist

  • allow a full open-hand release

  • not cut into the skin

Incorrect size reduces technique efficiency.

3.2. Left and right side

Many straps are labeled L and R.
Beginners often put them on the wrong hands — instructors must check this.

3.3. Secure fastening

The strap must connect firmly but still allow natural wrist movement.

4. Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Correct Them

4.1. Holding the pole too tightly

Correction: “Relax your grip — let the strap do the work.”

4.2. Wearing the strap incorrectly

Correction: Demonstrate slowly how the strap fits over the hand.

4.3. No hand release

Correction: Practice opening the hand during the push phase.

4.4. Strap twisting or rotating

Correction: Adjust the strap and re-align before walking.

5. Instructor Tips for Teaching Strap Use

  1. Demonstrate fastening the strap slowly and clearly.

  2. Show how the pole stays secure even with an open hand.

  3. Let participants practice without walking first.

  4. Check fit individually before starting movement.

  5. Correct improper strap use early — it affects the entire technique.

Key Takeaways

  1. Straps are essential for proper technique, not optional accessories.

  2. Correct strap use allows relaxed grip, better push, and proper hand release.

  3. Glove-style straps offer the best technical performance.

  4. Instructors must verify fit, size, and left/right orientation for each participant.

Last modified: Friday, 27 March 2026, 7:52 PM