Are you a current or former teacher looking for a flexible and fulfilling new role? If you love working with people, enjoy the outdoors, and want to continue teaching in a fresh way, becoming a Nordic Walking Instructor could be your perfect next step.
Many teachers find their classroom skills—explaining, leading, and inspiring—translate seamlessly into leading Nordic Walking groups. Whether you’ve worked with children, teenagers, or adults, your ability to break down skills, engage learners, and adapt to different abilities makes you an ideal instructor.
From Teaching to Nordic Walking: Real Stories from Former Teachers
Katie Atkins – From Primary Teacher to Nordic Walking Business Owner
"When still teaching in school, I had an idea for a Nordic Walking business. Nordic Walking was my downtime, my exercise, and my relaxation from a busy school world. Ideas then started to come to mind for combining both these worlds and loves—one where Nordic Walking teaching could be differentiated to all ages and abilities, bringing both benefit and enjoyment for all."
That idea became Nordic4, a thriving Nordic Walking business that Katie has grown over the past eight years since changing career. Now, she leads a team of six instructors, each bringing unique skills from their teaching and health backgrounds:
"None of this would be possible for me without the magic recipe of being a teacher and an INWA British Nordic Walking Instructor. Through Nordic Walking, I have found a sport that I love and will be able to enjoy for life. As an Instructor, I have found the opportunity to continue to teach but in different settings, with varied age groups, and with renewed energy."
Christine Stanley – Overcoming Challenges to Inspire Others
Christine Stanley, a former PE teacher and head of house, was forced to retire early at 55 due to Parkinson’s, but that didn’t stop her:
"I have always been very fit, and since my diagnosis, I have made it my goal to remain as fit as possible. I was part of a research group looking at the benefits of Nordic Walking for people with Parkinson’s. Long story short—I loved it! Within a couple of months, I secured funding and qualified as the first woman with Parkinson’s as a British Nordic Walking instructor. Once a teacher, always a teacher!"
Christine now runs multiple Nordic Walking groups for people with Parkinson’s across Nottingham and was recently made a British Nordic Walking Ambassador.
"Many doors have closed, but many have opened, and my life has been enriched. I have a purpose in my life—supporting others in the Parkinson’s community to get moving and stay fit. My mantra is: Accept, Adapt, and have Ambition!"
Returning to Nordic Walking for Work-Life Balance
For Hattie from Hello Happy Island, Nordic Walking provided the perfect balance between career and family life:
"I was lucky enough to be introduced to Nordic Walking after leaving college and wasted no time in becoming an instructor. I have always loved the freedom that working outside offers and teaching others. I followed my passion for teaching by qualifying as a primary school teacher and gaining a Master’s in Education, focusing on mental health and wellbeing for young children."
After having children, she left the classroom and returned to Nordic Walking as it is such a flexible career:
"Running my own business and working outside gives me the flexibility I need as a mum, the opportunity to get fitter while I work, and the chance to apply my knowledge of wellbeing to support others. Teaching is a skill that enhances your work as a Nordic Walking instructor of any age group—you assess and adjust what you do to help your walkers get the most out of the session."
Why Teachers Make Great Nordic Walking Instructors
1. You’re a Natural Leader
Teachers are skilled at managing groups, adapting to different abilities, and keeping sessions engaging—all crucial for leading successful Nordic Walking sessions.
2. You Know How to Teach Movement and Skills
From PE teachers to early years educators, anyone experienced in demonstrating, breaking down techniques, and giving feedback will feel at home teaching Nordic Walking.
As Katie explains:
"A PE specialist for 12 years, I enjoy thinking of all the different ways to adapt my teaching to enable walkers of all ages and abilities to achieve and enjoy Nordic Walking."
3. You Understand Different Learning Styles
Teachers are experts in differentiation—whether it’s supporting those who need extra help or challenging those ready for more.
4. You’re Already an Excellent Communicator
Nordic Walking is all about technique, posture, and rhythm—your ability to explain, motivate, and engage people will make your classes stand out.
5. You’re Used to Planning and Organising
Running a Nordic Walking business involves scheduling, promoting, and structuring activities—all skills you already have!
The Outdoor Classroom: A Rewarding Career Change
One of the biggest joys of becoming a Nordic Walking Instructor is working in the great outdoors. Instead of four walls and a whiteboard, your new “classroom” could be a local park, woodland trail, or scenic countryside path.
- Fresh air and exercise replace long hours at a desk.
- Nature becomes your teaching space, improving well-being.
- You still get to teach and inspire people, but in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.
For many former teachers, this career offers a better work-life balance, less stress, and an opportunity to stay active while earning an income.
FAQs: What Teachers Want to Know
1. Do I need previous fitness experience?
No! Many instructors come from non-fitness backgrounds. The training course teaches you everything you need to know about technique, safety, and leading sessions.
2. Can I do this as a side hustle?
Yes! Many teachers start weekend or evening sessions alongside their job before transitioning to full-time.
3. How much can I earn?
Instructors charge per session or offer memberships. Some also work with schools, councils, or health organisations.
4. Is there demand for Nordic Walking?
Yes! It’s growing in popularity, especially among those looking for a low-impact, social, and effective way to stay active.
5. How do I get started?
The best way to begin is by taking an accredited instructor course. Once trained, you can start running classes and building a client base.
Take the Next Step
If you’re looking for a meaningful, flexible, and active career, Nordic Walking could be the perfect fit. Whether you want a side hustle alongside part-time teaching or a full-time change, your existing skills put you at a fantastic advantage.
Christine sums it up best:
"Many doors have closed, but many have opened, and my life has been enriched. I have a purpose in my life—supporting others in the Parkinson’s community to get moving and stay fit."
Ready to step outside the classroom and into the fresh air?
➡️ Join our next instructor training course and start your journey today!
Click here to learn more and sign up.