June 21, 2014 – Urban Poling Inc. is proud to announce that Winnipeg artist Jordan Stranger, of Peguis First Nation, is the winner of the company’s national Spirit Pole Design Contest.
The contest invited Aboriginal youth from across Canada to submit original artwork for the latest special edition of Urban Poling Nordic walking poles (think cross-country skiing without the skis on sidewalks & city parks). The award included a cash prize and 10 pairs of the Spirit Poles for the winner’s community. Stranger, a 25-year-old Red River College graphic design graduate, works as an advertising designer for Pattison Outdoor Advertising.
His colourful design features a majestic elk with long legs that extend the length of the poles.
“The yellow, green and blue represent the sky, earth and water, and the Elk represents the strength we need to walk, run and climb through life,” says Stranger.
Urban Poling co-owner Mandy Shintani developed a strong interest in First Nation health while working as an occupational therapist with B.C.’s Squamish First Nation several years ago.
“One of my longstanding goals has been to provide effective and inexpensive tools and programs that make it easier for Aboriginal people to achieve their health and wellness goals,” says Shintani.
Many health promoters and community leaders within Aboriginal communities have completed the Urban Poling Instructor Certification Program and offer Urban Poling programs through their local community centres.
In partnership with the National Aboriginal Diabetes Association (NADA), Urban Poling is also helping to fight diabetes with a diabetes activity and education online program.
96 Research shows that compared to standard walking, Nordic walking burns more calories, reduces joint pain, strengthens upper body and core muscles, and helps manage blood sugar levels.
Urban Poling is proud to share a percentage of Spirit Pole sales with NADA and the Canadian Diabetes Association.
Vancouver-based Urban Poling Inc. designs and distributes 4 types of unique walking poles, all with ergonomic and easy-to-manage strapless handles. It is the largest Nordic walking pole company in Canada and offers the only Nordic walking instructor training program recognized by Canada’s largest seven largest fitness organizations.
