A Career Change That Leads Outdoors
Many who take up Nordic Walking instructing come from corporate, healthcare, teaching, and other professional backgrounds. What they share is a desire to step away from office pressures and embrace a more fulfilling, active career.
Kay’s Story: From Media to Movement
After years working in high-profile advertising and media management, Kay Speakman sought a change. A friend invited her to a Nordic Walking session, and although she initially felt like Bambi on ice, she was soon hooked. Fast forward sixteen years, and she has instructed hundreds of people, helping them stay active and connected with nature.
When your son mischievously asks why you’re teaching people to walk with ‘sticks’ when they already know how to walk, you might smile and wonder yourself. But as you see the physical and mental benefits Nordic Walking brings to people’s lives, the answer becomes clear.
“The health benefits and the incredible people I’ve met have solved the riddle of why I do this,” says Kay. “It’s easy when you believe in the mantra of keeping fit, having fun, and enjoying nature.”
Tracy’s Journey: Swapping the Desk for the Trails
Tracy Hall’s career began in publishing, but long hours indoors left her yearning for more outdoor time. When she discovered a free six-week Nordic Walking course, she fell in love with it. After relocating to Nottinghamshire and finding no local Nordic Walking groups, she took the leap and became an instructor herself.
Now, after eight years and more than 400 students, Tracy runs multiple sessions each week with the help of four walk leaders. “Nordic Walking took over my life,” she says. “I never went back to editing and proofreading—I just wanted to be outside!”
Catherine’s Transition: From Pharmaceuticals to Prescribing Exercise
Catherine’s career started in pharmaceuticals, managing teams and working in IT project management for major corporations. However, a personal tragedy made her reassess her priorities. Realizing that her most fulfilling moments came from helping others get active, she left the corporate world to pursue a new path in fitness and Nordic Walking.
Since then, she has trained hundreds of instructors and collaborated with organizations like Parkinson’s UK and This Girl Can. “Nordic Walking isn’t just about exercise; it’s about connection, confidence, and community,” she says.
Why Career Changers Thrive as Nordic Walking Instructors
Switching careers is daunting, but Nordic Walking offers a rewarding and flexible alternative. Here’s why it appeals to so many:
- Work-Life Balance – Set your own schedule, work outdoors, and stay active.
- Personal Fulfillment – Make a real difference to people’s health and well-being.
- Financial Viability – A two-day instructor course (£485) leads to a career with multiple income streams.
- Diverse Opportunities – Work with fitness clubs, rehab centers, charities, or start your own business.
How to Get Started
The British Nordic Walking instructor course takes just two days and equips you with everything needed to teach Nordic Walking. Many instructors start small, running sessions in their local parks, but quickly find demand growing. With membership (£65 per year) providing access to ongoing training and resources, you’re never alone in your journey. Annual insurance and First Aid Training keeps you and your walkers safe and are the main running costs you'll need to consider.
Ready for a Change?
If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching the desk for the outdoors, helping others improve their health, and building a career on your own terms, becoming a Nordic Walking instructor could be your perfect next step.
Come and join a growing movement—where ‘walking with sticks’ is so much more than just walking!