Scandinavian Style Took Over the U.S. — Is Scandinavian Fitness Next?

NEW YORK – Over the past few years, the American design and fashion industries have been greatly influenced by the Scandinavian style, which mainly draws on soft neutral colors, simple geometric shapes, and effortless elegance. Now, the Nordic lifestyle habits are predicted to exert a similar influence on the sport and fitness world. Nrthrn Strong, a Danish fitness brand, opened its first permanent studio in the U.S. in New York City this October with the debut of Nordic cross-country skiing-inspired classes — the most popular winter sport in the Nordic region. However, the fitness culture of Scandinavia has not only deeply penetrated the NYC dwellers. Americans are infusing the Scandinavian style into their lives by engaging in Nordic walking, visiting the fashionable bathhouses, and doing outdoor exercises even in the cold season. Such choices are pointing to the bigger trend of adopting the Nordic health philosophy.

Reasons Why Nordic Fitness Arouses Americans' Interest

The popularity of Scandinavian workouts is not surprising as the Nordic countries are regularly ranked among the healthiest and happiest nations of the world. Alyssa Amos Clark, CPT, a personal trainer and professional athlete, says, "Some of the best athletes in the world are Nordic skiers.Cross-country skiing is extremely challenging as it requires the use of the upper body, legs, core, and the cardiovascular system all at the same time — this is the ultimate full body workout that not only gives you the highest level of stamina but also strength," she explains. If the inhabitants of the U.S. were allowed to ski daily, then the problem of the bad condition of ski trails would not exist, but most of them are not so fortunate. However, the Indian club is rapidly gaining popularity among the people of different big cities and people have quickly adopted the practice of Nordic walking, which is essentially hiking but with the use of ski-like poles. Clark explains, "It is extremely great because your arms and core muscles get worked at the same time but the joints are not subjected to any kind of wear and tear.It is something that anyone can do and it forces one to give up the phone for a short period of time which is very refreshing," she adds.

Movement as a Way of Life

Besides Nordic culture sports focus, it also closely relates the idea of movement to being the core of everyday life in its people. This includes going to work by bike, taking a walk with friends, or spending time in nature. Stockholm-based trainer Karin Lundström argues that the Scandinavian societies not only talk but practice more holistic health. "As we all were products of the same environment, we were naturally pushed to stay physically active – taking a cold dip followed by sauna session is the norm. The health-promoting activities are also congruent with this ideology like Sweden's 2001 program that established exercise prescription by doctors," she added.

The Scandinavian Gym: Minimalist, Calm, and Functional

Gyms that have been influenced by North European design mirror the various positive attributes of the region — warm, tranquil, and inviting. A typical gym in America is characterized by a lot of lights, noise, and machines. In contrast, Scandinavian gyms are designed to be relaxing and comforting. At Nrthrn Strong, the subdued lighting and shiny equipment work together to produce a setting where visitors want to stay longer and be part of the experience. Othership, a contemporary bathhouse in Toronto and New York, also combines soft lighting with natural wood to create calming wellness areas.

Embracing the Outdoors - No Matter the Weather

One of the most outstanding features of Nordic fitness is that it is not influenced by winter weather conditions. Even the harshest months do not inhibit running, skiing, and walking activities of people living in Nordic countries. Lundström refers to a Swedish proverb: “Det finns inget dåligt väder, bara dåliga kläder” — "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing". With this point of view, one can be active in any season, and the number of Americans who are gradually adopting it is increasing.

As Nordic lifestyle habits are becoming more popular all over the United States, the implementation of Scandinavian fitness culture in everyday life seems to be of long-term nature. Its main points such as holistic well-being, functional movement, outdoor activity, and minimalist design make it a very attractive option for those who are tired of the overstimulating, fast-paced American gym culture. Whether it is done through icy dips, outdoor workouts, or calming wellness spaces, Nordic principles are helping Americans to become more mindful and balanced in their approach to health — the one that might soon become an essential part of American fitness culture.