Empowering Parkinson’s Patients Through Nordic Walking

A pioneering initiative is transforming the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease by combining the therapeutic benefits of Nordic Walking with tailored support. For the past eight years, British Nordic Walking, in partnership with Parkinson’s UK, has adapted this technique specifically for Parkinson’s patients, thanks to the expertise of Brad Blake, the first instructor to work with the PUK Hereford support group.

A standout success story is Christine Stanley, a woman living with Parkinson’s who not only completed the BNW Instructor training but now serves as an inspiration and advisor. Christine is passionate about offering hope, particularly to women with Parkinson’s, as she challenges the misconception that it only affects older men. She says, “With a positive mindset, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, you can slow progression. You have to accept, adapt, and have ambition!”

On September 13th, Christine will compete in the World Nordic Walking Championships in Finland, demonstrating the incredible potential of individuals with Parkinson’s.

With new funding from Parkinson’s UK, this initiative will expand, enabling more support groups to establish their own Nordic Walking programs, offering hope and empowerment to even more people living with Parkinson’s. If you know someone who would like to train as a Nordic Walking Instructor - we'd love to help!