History of Nordic Walking

2010	Most of the Nordic Walker® poles are manufactured in Europe.
2009	Exel introduced the ALIS (Advanced Lock In System) for Nordic Walker® poles
2007	Exel marked its 10th anniversary in Nordic Walking.
2006	Exel was awarded with International Stevie® Award in the 2006 International Business Awards (IBAs).
2005	German Fit for Fun magazine appoints Nordic Walking and Nordic Fitness Sport as a Mega Trend of the year.
2003	Introduction of Nordic Fitness Sports parks by Exel.
2002	Exel introduces new product innovations for Nordic Walking: NW Pro grip designed for Nordic Walking, Control Asphalt Paw and a Nordic Walking technique video.
2001	Exel is the finalist of Brand New Brand competition with Nordic Walking concept, ISPO Winter 2001.
2000	Establishment of the International Nordic Walking Association in Finland, first international education materials for Nordic Walking and education system Exel gets Innovation Finland 2000 main prize for the development of Nordic Walking internationally.
1997	Exel invents the name “Nordic Walking” for international use Exel introduces the first carbon fiber “Nordic Walker” pole in Finland
1996	Suomen Latu (The Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities), the Finnish Sports Institute and a Finnish pole manufacturer Exel joined their forces to promote Nordic Walking.
1980’s	First trials of walking with ski poles in public in Finland in early 1980’s.
1930’s	Finnish XC skiers began running and walking exercises with poles as summer training method.

Exel is the original Nordic Walking brand. With more than 20 years of experience in the manufacturing and development of carbon composite poles, Exel is a leading producer of high-end products for pole market segments. Exel’s Nordic Walking concept incorporates innovative products, parts and accessories. In addition, Exel has created educational programming for training techniques, instruction, and warm-up and stretching exercises. Exel is the original Nordic Walking brand. With more than 20 years of experience in the manufacturing and development of carbon composite poles, Exel is a leading producer of high-end products for pole market segments. Exel’s Nordic Walking concept incorporates innovative products, parts and accessories. In addition, Exel has created educational programming for training techniques, instruction, and warm-up and stretching exercises.