What is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking is a type of fitness walking using specially designed poles to give you a full-body workout. In Europe Nordic Walking is well respected in the field of improving health and fitness - health insurance firms in Switzerland offer discounts to people who do Nordic Walking, and in Germany the government pays for it to rehabilitate hospital patients, and health insurers also subsidise courses - the aim is to prevent back problems, heart disease and obesity. So it's well worth a try!

How fit do I have to be to do Nordic Walking? I haven't done much exercise for a while

If you are out of shape then no problem! This is truly a low-impact activity and can be enjoyed by all fitness levels. If you can walk, you can Nordic Walk. As in all forms of exercise, it is advisable to consult your doctor before undertaking a new exercise regime.

What do I wear?

A sturdy pair of shoes and appropriate clothing for walking.

Will it help my posture?

Yes absolutely - it's difficult to Nordic Walk properly with poor posture - stand up straight, shoulders back, head up and you're off! Nordic Walking will also help to loosen the neck and shoulder muscles thereby reducing back, neck and shoulder tension.

I've heard that Nordic Walking is good for weight loss. Is that true?

When Nordic Walking you use your legs, arms, shoulders, tummy, chest and back muscles. So many more muscles are involved! As you use more muscles, you burn more calories - up to 450 calories/hour, which is 60% more than normal walking.

Can I Nordic Walk if I have bad knees?

Using the Nordic Walking poles distributes your weight so that some of the pressure is taken off your joints, thus relieving the pain in your knees, hips or ankles. If you have problems with your knees or other joints then it's well worth giving Nordic Walking a try. Of course, you should check with your doctor before starting this or any other exercise programme.

Where can I learn to Nordic Walk?

The best way to learn is to book on to a 'Learn to Nordic Walk'  one-to-one session to get to grips with the basic technique. The poles will be provided and you can decide if it's for you. You can then Nordic Walk independently or go out regularly with a group.

Is there a Nordic Walking group I can join?

Come along to our regular sessions for a warm and friendly welcome! Nordic Walking is sociable and fun - chat as you go!

I live in the Midlands. If I come to one of your Nordic Days Out will there be accommodation available?

We can arrange accommodation to suit your budget in superb local B&Bs or hotels. Why not come and enjoy a  whole weekend or midweek break of Nordic Walking?