A free, fun and friendly way to get fit at your own pace
If you love the idea of being active outdoors but don’t fancy running, Nordic Walking at parkrun could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy the weekly, free 5k event—at your own pace—with the support of a welcoming community.
Nordic Walking is a full-body, low-impact workout that’s gentle on your joints but great for fitness. At parkrun, walkers are genuinely encouraged, and you’ll never be last because the Tailwalkers always are.
One of the best parts? You can chat the whole way round, meet new people, and feel part of something bigger. Whether you’re walking for fitness, fun, injury recovery or mental wellbeing, Nordic Walking at parkrun fits the bill.
Richard’s Story: “Nordic Walking gave me back my stride—and my wellbeing”
As a former runner and cyclist, Richard Shawcross struggled when a degenerative knee injury forced him to give up such high-impact activities. Nordic Walking offered a way back into fitness—challenging, full-body, and far more than he expected.
“Those poles add so much more than I expected. Nordic Walking gave me the runner’s high again, with far less pain. In Europe, Nordic Walking is a sport - my aim is to bring that to the UK. "
When Richard brought his poles to parkrun in January 2024, he rediscovered routine, community, and joy. Now a British Nordic Walking Instructor, he’s also founded Nordic Walkers of parkrun, an online group for those wanting to connect and feel less alone.
“You might be the only one with poles at your event—but you’re not the only one Nordic Walking. We’re building a tribe.”
Whether you’re returning from injury, looking for a new challenge, or simply want a sociable way to move more, Richard’s message is clear: you’re welcome, and you’re not alone.
Tom’s Story: “parkrun helped me adapt—and thrive”
Tom Giles spent years as a runner, relishing the freedom of the trails. But after a heart failure diagnosis in 2015, his approach had to change. He discovered that Nordic Walking not only reduced joint pain—it helped him stay strong, fit, and connected.
“Running made things worse. Nordic Walking made things better.”
Now a regular at Birkenhead parkrun, Tom celebrates the way parkrun supports every pace and ability. His poles have become essential—not just for exercise, but for identity and social connection.
“I could once again revel in that deep fitness feeling and celebrate it with friends at parkrun.”
For Tom, the Saturday routine has become a cornerstone of recovery, resilience, and rediscovery. Nordic Walking helped him listen to his body—and find new ways to thrive.
Karen’s Story: “From thesis to trail—Nordic Walking filled the gap”
After finishing her PhD, Karen Jones felt a Saturday-shaped hole in her life. That changed in October 2023, when she completed a Nordic Walking beginner course with Nordic Nomads and found a new Saturday rhythm—at Chippenham parkrun.
“Running had become painful due to hip issues. Nordic Walking meant I could keep showing up—without the pain.”
A former runner and graduate of Couch to 5K, Karen now Nordic Walks most weeks and is closing in on her 100 parkrun milestone. She also joins longer walks with Nordic Nomads when she can.
“It’s a completely different kind of challenge—and it’s fun!”
Nordic Walking gave Karen back her parkrun, and her Saturdays. Now, it’s part of her life—not just for fitness, but for community and headspace.
Maxine and Friends: “Confidence, connection and community”
Maxine leads a friendly local Nordic Walking group that regularly takes part in parkrun. Among the group is Barbara, who returned to parkrun with poles after breast cancer, and Sam, who loves the community spirit and support the walks bring.
For Barbara, Nordic Walking was a way to rebuild strength and confidence with the support of others. For Sam, it’s all about the camaraderie:
“The atmosphere, the inclusivity, the support—it’s all there. The health benefits are a bonus.”
Maxine encourages people of all ages and paces to join in—whether they’re recovering from illness, looking for gentle exercise, or just want to walk with others.
“It’s not about competition. It’s about showing up, being together, and doing something that feels good.”
She also gives back by volunteering at her local event—sometimes combining walking with a volunteer role.
“Nordic Walking at parkrun is the perfect, free way to practice your technique, build fitness and be part of a movement—literally. ”
Together, they’re building a local Nordic Walking community, one Saturday at a time.
Sian’s Story: “From illness to 270 parkruns—and counting”
After a long period of undiagnosed autoimmune illness, Sian Harris began rebuilding her health through Nordic Walking. When Penallta parkrun launched in 2015, she wasn’t sure walkers were welcome—but she showed up with her poles anyway.
“I was the only walker there. It was daunting—but I did it, and I was hooked.”
That first step led to a powerful journey. In 2016, Sian trained as a British Nordic Walking Instructor and launched Valleys Nordic Walking to help others experience the same transformation. Her mission? To make Nordic Walking a visible and welcome part of parkrun.
“I’ve now Nordic Walked over 270 parkruns. If you’d told me that at the start, I’d never have believed it.”
Sian is a proud supporter of parkwalk, and she regularly volunteers too. For her, the benefits of parkrun go well beyond fitness.
“It’s about connection, mental wellbeing, and community. Just turn up, say hello, and give it a go. You won’t be last—and you won’t be alone.”
And one final note?
“Be warned—parkrun is seriously addictive!”
Ready to Try Nordic Walking at parkrun?
Whether you're returning from injury, looking for low-impact fitness, or simply want a friendly way to move more, Nordic Walking at parkrun could be your next step.
Just bring your poles, pick a local parkrun, and join in. You don’t need to be fast—and you won’t be last.
Want to learn Nordic Walking first?
Find a qualified British Nordic Walking Instructor near you
Already Nordic Walking at parkrun?
Join Nordic Walkers of parkrun on Facebook
Ready to take part?
Because once you try it, you’ll never look at walking—or Saturday mornings—the same way again.