2026 Smokies Spring Ski Walking

Whether you are beginning an exercise program, looking to drop a few pounds and improve your overall health or you are a high level athlete seeking a new cross-training activity, Ski Walking offers many benefits that few other low-impact exercise activities can match!

• Ski Walking increases heart and lungs function by increasing cardio capacity by 20%-40% more than regular walking depending on the level of ski walking that has three different levels (L1-L3).
• Ski Walking poles also provide more upper body strengthening and better support for your lower joints while providing better balance on slippery surfaces, traversing rough terrain or crossing a small stream by increasing stability.
• Ski Walking also burns 20%-40% more calories than regular walking if done with the proper technique, which includes Level 1 being the easiest through Level 3 being the most intense Ski Walking technique.

The next school will start:

Each Monday Evening
April 6 – April 27 (6, 13, 20 & 27)
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.
Monteith Park & Farmstead, Dillsboro, NC

Participants will be provided ski walking poles for the entire duration of the school, which can be taken home to practice and even compete in a competition that will go through April 27th.

So if you are looking to increase your fitness and try a new exercise activity, why not take ski walking poles along with you on a walk to “economize your exercise!” Please show-up on April 6th if you are interested.

Please contact Jackson and Swain County Extension Director Robert J. Hawk at 586-4009 or 736-6919, or email “[email protected]” for more information.

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Host or Publisher N.C. Cooperative Extension, Swain County