New- Activator Certification Course (Live - Ont & BC, Online & Onsite upon request)
Revolutionizing exercise programs and walking for those with chronic conditions, injuries and less active older adults
For a full description of the Activator poles (Professional Edition) go to www.activatorpoles.com

Co-designed by a Canadian Therapist for maximum safety and effectiveness.
The Activator certification course provides in-depth training for therapists, RT, RA, care facility employees, activity coordinators and older adults fitness instructors.
You’ll learn how to safely and effectively use the Activator poles for rehabilitation and group exercise programs.
The Activator course covers assessment tools, research (over 58 studies on poles walking) and how to modify the technique based on the physical and cognitive limitations of clients. The practical portion includes an overview of assessments, techniques and exercises. Includes the basic technique for urban poling (Nordic walking) for adults and active older adults.
Presenter: Mandy Shintani, BSc (O.T), MA (Gero), one of the leading experts in Canada on Nordic walking and co-developer of the Activator Poles & Technique
Agenda
- Research Review (over 58 studies)
- Features of the Activator poles
- Basic technique
- Goals
- Determining which clients are appropriate for the Activator poles
- Functional capabilities required
- Standardized and formal assessment tools
- Modifying for specific conditions: arthritis, CVA, fall prevention, Parkinson’s, MS, hip and knee conditions and post-surgery rehab, cardiac rehab and diabetes
- Group exercises and guidelines
- Urban Poling for adults & active older adults
Recognized for CECs by the Can-Fit-Pro, BCRPA and Canadian Centre of Activity and Aging (University of Western Ontario)
Cost: $140 (includes Activator poles, 50 page manual & access to a private instructor website)
*Fitness professionals must have education or experience working with frail older adults.
*Ask us about wholesale pricing for care facilities, therapy clinic and community programs (up to 43% off). Care facilities & clinics can receive the online training program with orders of 20 pairs or more of the Activator & Urban Poles.
New-Ontario
Presenter: Mandy Shintani, BSc (O.T), MA (Gero), one of the leading experts in Canada on poling and co-developer of the Activator Poles & Technique.
Toronto: Wednesday, Sept 29, 6-9 pm (InsideOut Physiotherapy and Wellness Group, 1240 Bay Street, Suite 502)
Ottawa: Sunday, October 3, 2-5 pm (Family Physio Sports Conditioning and Wellness Center 2190 Thurston Drive)
Register today! Space is limited.
BC
Presenter: Mandy Shintani, BSc (O.T), MA (Gero), one of the leading experts in Canada on poling and co-developer of the Activator Poles.
Chiliwack: Sunday September 19, 12:30 – 3:30 pm. (Location: 5787 Gillian Place, Chilliwack , BC) (for those who want to learn some Advanced urban poling techniques, the course will go to 4 pm)
Vancouver: Wed October 13, 6-9 pm (Location: Lakeview Care Centre 3490 Porter Street)
****New – On line Activator course is now available.
You can now instantly access the Activator course with access to our private online certification program. This offer also includes one pair of “Activator” Poles ($99.99 value) to get you started!
Presented by: Mandy Shintani, BSc OT, MA (gero), co-developer of the Activator Poles
We hope you enjoy the 60 minutes of video teaching.
Our unique and comprehensive course gives you all the materials, resources, tools and support you need to quickly and efficiently implement your own Activator program.
The equipment, manual and course were designed with the expertise of therapists, RT, RA, care facility employees, activity coordinators and older adults fitness instructors.
If you have any questions we would be pleased to help you.
Yes I am ready….
For information , questions or to register via telephone or fax, please contact us at :
Email: mandy@urbanpoling.com
Phone: 604-990-7711 (Vancouver office), 416-653-0440 (Toronto office) or 877-499-7711
Fax: 604 980-1085
Activator Co-Developer & Presenter
Mandy Shintani has been an occupational therapist for over 20 years focusing on community-based rehabilitation for older adults. She has a Master’s degree in Gerontology. She is the co-developer of the Activator poles and walking technique. She was nominated for the 2010 YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for Entrepeneurship and Innovation. Ms. Shintani started Urban Poling Inc. in 2005 and oversees the Urban Poling National Instructor Training Centre which is accredited by seven Canadian fitness associations.
How can I take this course across Canada?
If your department, conference, clinic, older adult facility or residence across Canada is interested in the Activator Certification Course (live or via teleconference) or an in-service presentation, please contact us at info@urbanpoling.com or 1 877 499-7999
For a detailed look at the Activator poles click here .



Introducing the Limited Edition 4LIFE Nordic walking poles!