About INWA | the International Nordic Walking Federation

INWA is the Global Governing Body for Nordic Walking. Founded in Finland, the birthplace of Nordic Walking, in 2000, the International Nordic Walking Federation (INWA) is the Global Governing Body for Nordic Walking. Officially authorised by the originators of Nordic Walking, INWA is dedicated to promoting, advancing, and safeguarding the core principles of the sport worldwide.

As the birthplace of Nordic Walking, Finland has played a key role in shaping the activity we know today. INWA was created to ensure Nordic Walking would grow internationally with high standards of technique, instructor education and safety at its core. Today, INWA supports member countries around the world, helping Nordic Walking continue to grow as a health activity, fitness discipline, outdoor recreation and competitive sport.

British Nordic Walking and INWA

British Nordic Walking is proud to be the sole UK representative of INWA. This means our instructor education is directly connected to the international body responsible for maintaining standards and advancing Nordic Walking globally.

When you train with British Nordic Walking, you become part of something much bigger than a single training provider. You are joining an international network of instructors, trainers and organisations committed to delivering high quality Nordic Walking education and experiences.

Our close relationship with INWA ensures our courses stay aligned with the latest international developments in technique, coaching, research and education. It also means our instructors benefit from recognition that extends beyond the UK.

INWA’s Key Areas of Work

Education – Teaching Nordic Walking

Education has always been at the heart of INWA’s mission. INWA develops innovative teaching methods and training programmes for Nordic Walking in collaboration with experts in sport, health and fitness.

Using the internationally recognised INWA 10 Step Method, INWA has certified Nordic Walking National Trainers and Instructors in more than 40 countries worldwide. This shared educational framework helps maintain consistency, quality and professionalism across the global Nordic Walking community.

For our instructors, this connection to an internationally recognised education system is an important advantage. It means your training is based on proven methods and supported by a worldwide organisation dedicated solely to Nordic Walking.

Competition – Nordic Walking Racing and Sport

INWA also leads the development of competitive Nordic Walking and Nordic Walking racing around the world.

The federation works to grow participation internationally, establish clear and inclusive competition rules, support athletes at all levels and uphold the integrity of Nordic Walking competition events, including World Cup competitions.

Competitive Nordic Walking continues to grow rapidly across Europe and internationally, helping showcase the athletic side of the activity while still remaining accessible and inclusive.

INWA Members – A Global Nordic Walking Community

INWA’s members are the heart of the organisation. Together they form a strong, supportive and highly skilled international community of Nordic Walking educators, trainers, instructors and organisations.

Through collaboration, education and shared inspiration, INWA members help promote health, wellbeing and fitness worldwide through Nordic Walking.

Being part of the INWA network means being connected to a global movement that shares ideas, supports development and works together to grow Nordic Walking for future generations.

Catherine Hughes and INWA

British Nordic Walking has strong links at the highest level of the international Nordic Walking community. Our CEO Catherine Hughes serves on the INWA Board, helping shape the future direction and strategy of Nordic Walking worldwide.

Having direct representation on the INWA Board strengthens our connection with the international Nordic Walking community and helps ensure our instructors remain at the forefront of developments within the activity.

Why INWA Accreditation Matters

There are many Nordic Walking courses available, but not all instructor qualifications are equal. Being trained through an INWA-affiliated organisation means your education is connected to internationally recognised standards and backed by a global federation dedicated solely to Nordic Walking.

For many instructors, this international accreditation provides added confidence and credibility when working with clients, community organisations, healthcare professionals and outdoor groups.

At British Nordic Walking, we believe quality matters. Our relationship with INWA is one of the things that makes BNW different and helps us continue to deliver trusted, respected and internationally connected instructor training.

Whether your goal is to teach community classes, work in health settings, lead outdoor experiences or simply deepen your understanding of Nordic Walking, becoming part of the INWA network is a valuable step in your journey.