A cool, bright morning. Blue skies. And over 100 people from the Parkinson’s community coming together to move, connect, and celebrate World Parkinson’s Day at Wollaton Park.
This is what Nordic walking is about.
The event was organised by Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist and British Nordic Walking INWA instructor Sarah McCracken, alongside Nordic walking ambassador Christine Stanley, a fellow INWA instructor who lives with Parkinson’s disease.
They were backed by 10 British Nordic Walking INWA instructors, all of whom gave their time to make the day happen. Two also brought along a walk leader and members of their groups, adding to the sense of community from the start.
The session opened with a group warm-up beside Wollaton Hall. Music on. Poles in hand. Chris leading with energy, confidence, and a bit of fun that set the tone straight away.
From there, participants split into three groups and headed out around the lake and deer park. Along the way, there was more than walking. Balance work, simple drills, and a few games, all designed to build confidence and support good technique.
Members of Parkinson’s UK East Midlands joined the session and were quick to highlight the atmosphere. Well organised. Supportive. Easy to take part. And, most importantly, enjoyable.
This was the third year of the event, and it showed. Bigger turnout. Smoother delivery. A real sense that something is building.
A local charity, Chardikala, was also part of the day. Founded by a Sikh family in honour of their late father who lived with Parkinson’s, the charity promotes activity and movement. Some members of the Parkinson’s Nordic walking group have already secured small grants through them to invest in quality poles.
Friends and family joined in too. No pressure, no barriers. Just people walking together, with plenty of smiles along the way.
Filming took place throughout the day to capture the real impact of Nordic walking for people living with Parkinson’s. The footage will support British Nordic Walking’s work with health professionals and organisations, including the NHS, helping more people access structured, effective support through movement.
The day wrapped up in the stable yard with a proper finish. Bunting up. Homemade cakes out. A relaxed picnic and time to chat. Cakes were sold to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK, with over £200 presented to the local support group.
Plans are already in place for next year. The date is set for 9 April 2027.
Everyone is welcome.
If you’re thinking about getting started, or supporting someone with Parkinson’s to take that first step, now is a good time.
Find your nearest British Nordic Walking instructor:
https://www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk/find-an-instructor/