Nordic Walking

Another great recreational activity that Farshad Farivar talks about is Nordic Walking. Nordic walking is a physical activity and a sport. He says that this is an activity which is performed with specially designed walking poles similar to ski poles. As compared to regular walking, Nordic walking (also called pole walking) involves applying force to the poles with each stride. Nordic walkers uses their entire body (with greater intensity) and receive fitness building stimulation not present in normal walking for the chest, lats, triceps, biceps, shoulder, abdominals, spinal and other core muscles that may result in significant increases in heart rate at a speed.

Farshad Farivar says that Nordic walking poles are significantly shorter than those recommended for cross-country skiing. He says that Nordic walking poles come in one-piece, non-adjustable shaft versions, available in varying lengths, and telescoping two or three piece twist-locking versions of adjustable length. One piece poles are generally stronger and lighter, but must be matched to the user. Telescoping poles are 'one-size fits all', and are more transportable. Apart from this these poles feature a range of grips and wrist-straps, or rarely, no wrist-strap at all. The straps eliminate the need to tightly grasp the grips. As with many trekking poles, Nordic walking poles come with removable rubber tips for use on hard surfaces and hardened metal tips for trails, the beach, snow and ice. Most poles are made from lightweight aluminum, carbon fiber, or composite materials. Special walking shoes are not required, although there are shoes being marketed as specifically designed for the sport.

As per Farshad Farivar the cadences of the arms, legs and body are similar to those used in normal, if vigorous, walking. In this the range of arm movement regulates the length of the stride. Restricted arm movements will mean a restricted pelvic motion and stride length. The longer the pole thrust the longer the stride and more powerful the swing of the pelvis and upper torso.

Farshad Farivar states various benefits for those who practice this activity. Some of them are as follows:-
1. Health improvement- A gentle range of movement encourages general mobility.

2. Fitness development- A slightly more vigorous movement that takes the participant into a full body workout and facilitates increased calorie burn.

3. Sports specific, Highly effective method of cross training for any sportsman/woman that involves bounding, jumps and Nordic running

Along with this Farshad Farivar says that each level has a specific range of movements that need to be learned and practiced –Instructors are available who are fully trained to help participants learn good technique and can identify faults early in order to avoid potential problems. He also recommends choosing correct poles with the correct hand strap will enable the full movement.

He stresses on learning good technique that is the requirement of the individual - poor technique and wrong sized poles can result in discomfort and injury.
Nordic Walking does not advocate trying to learn from books as it is not possible to ascertain whether you are engaging the correct muscles without evaluation from a trained expert.

Farshad Farivar lists some of the Physical Benefits that this activity has like toning of body, burning calories, reducing pressure on knees and joints, great for heart, lungs, neck, shoulders and back problems. Some other benefits that this activity has are it can be done anywhere, is comfortable for all age groups, no special clothes to be worn, easy to learn and practice.

Go-karting

Farshad Farivar says that Go kart is a small 4 strokes or 2 strokes four wheel vehicles. It comes in different sizes and models which has a range from powerless to high powered machines (super karts) able to race on longer circuits. In other words Farshad Farivar says that go kart is a motorsport with four wheel and open frame work used for racing.  As in convectional racing go kart provides accommodation for a passenger with recreational model but most of them are single sitter.

Go kart has a variety of speed range which makes this sport activity favorable for all age groups. The tracks are indoor or outdoor. Indoor tracks start with basic model of go kart which is used in amusement or public place which has a speed limit of 16mph.Indoor tracks are located generally in warehouse or refurbished factories. Outdoor track offer KF1 model with speed limit of 87 mph and second model known as shifter kart has a speed limit of 115mph. Farshad Farivar says that these models are commercial aspects of kart racing. In addition to that it offers competitive races and league. Moreover it has got Go-kart world championship.

Farshad Farivar says that driving mechanism for go kart is provided by engine through rear axle with the help of chain. Farshad Farivar says that as there is no differential, which means one tire has to slide while cornering. This is accomplished by chassis design so that inside tire lifts up slightly while taking cornering. Go kart is driven either by engine or electric motor. Engine can be 4 strokes or 2 strokes according to the application of speed.  Engines are standard air cooled industrial based engines. With small modification it can be use for racing and fun kart application. Electric go kart requires lead acid batteries for safe and pollution free operation. He says that Hydrogen cells can be used as fuel for some karts.

According to Farshad Farivar driving equipment for safe go karting involves proper equipment from head to shoe. It includes full face helmet, driving suit, gloves, driving boots. These are the mandatory things, apart from these rib protectors and neck collar are highly recommended.

Farshad Farivar states that Go kart is an activity that plays a crucial role in developing quick reflexes, precision car control and decision making skills. This activity can also provide a platform for high speed wheel to wheel racing, along with this it brings awareness of parameters required for high speed drivers. In addition to all this motor sport activity is low cost and safe way to introduce a driver to motor racing.