A Simple Way to Move, Feel Better and Explore More

Nordic Walking is much more than walking with poles. It’s a full-body activity that turns an ordinary walk into an effective, enjoyable workout while still feeling natural, accessible and social.

Using specially designed poles and an easy to learn technique, Nordic Walking engages the upper body as well as the legs, helping you walk taller, move better and get more from every step. Whether you want to improve your fitness, support your health, enjoy the outdoors or challenge yourself physically, Nordic Walking can be adapted to suit you.

From peaceful woodland walks to fitness sessions, mountain adventures and even competitive racing, Nordic Walking is one of the most versatile activities you can try. The power is in the poles, driving you forwards and turning a walk into a workout.

What Makes Nordic Walking Different?

Unlike trekking poles used primarily for stability or hiking, Nordic Walking poles are used actively to propel the body forward. This creates a more energised walk, driving the body forward whilst easing the load on the knees and hips.

With the correct technique, Nordic Walking can:

• Engage up to 90% of the body’s muscles
• Improve posture and walking technique
• Increase calorie burn compared to ordinary walking
• Reduce strain on knees and hips
• Help build strength, endurance and mobility
• Boost mood and mental wellbeing through movement outdoors

The beauty of Nordic Walking is that it can be as gentle or as challenging as you want it to be.

Who Is Nordic Walking For?

Complete Beginners

You do not need to be fit to start Nordic Walking. Many people begin because they want a gentle, supportive way to become more active. The poles provide stability and confidence, helping people walk further and feel more comfortable exercising outdoors.

Nordic Walking is ideal if you:

• Are new to exercise
• Want a low-impact activity
• Prefer being outdoors to going to the gym
• Enjoy social activities and group classes
• Want to improve your general health and fitness

People Managing Health Conditions

Nordic Walking is widely used to support people living with a range of health conditions because it is adaptable, low impact and easy to tailor to individual needs.

Many participants find Nordic Walking helps improve confidence, mobility and overall wellbeing while making exercise feel enjoyable rather than intimidating.

People with the following conditions often benefit from Nordic Walking:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Back pain and poor posture
• Parkinson’s
• Osteoporosis
• Diabetes
• Heart and lung conditions
• Stress, anxiety and low mood
• Recovery after illness or injury

Always seek medical advice before starting a new exercise programme if you have a medical condition. Nordic Walking is often recommended by health professionals as a safe and sustainable way to stay active and we have many partnerships with organisations like Parkinson's UK, Age UK, and the NHS, to name a few.

Active People, Fitness Enthusiasts and Competition

Nordic Walking is not just for beginners. By increasing pace, adding hills or deepening technique, it becomes a powerful cardiovascular and strength workout.

Nordic Walking competitions like the INWA World Championships offer off road challenges to series athletes and those wanting a challenge. Ultra runners and competitors are turning to poles and Nordic Walking to give them a more competitive edge in events. 

The poles help activate the upper body, making sessions feel purposeful and athletic and help racers power up the hills.

Across the UK and internationally, people take part in:

• Long-distance challenges
• Trail events
• Mountain walking adventures
• Fitness races
• Competitive Nordic Walking events

For those who enjoy goals, progression and performance, Nordic Walking offers endless opportunities to develop speed, technique and endurance.

More Than Exercise

One of the reasons people fall in love with Nordic Walking is how good it makes them feel.

Being outdoors, moving naturally and connecting with others can have a huge positive effect on mental wellbeing. Nordic Walking combines exercise, fresh air, nature and community in a way few activities do.

People often say Nordic Walking helps them:

• Feel more energised
• Sleep better
• Reduce stress
• Improve confidence
• Meet new people
• Reconnect with the outdoors

It’s exercise that doesn’t always feel like exercise.

Learn the Technique

Nordic Walking is easy to learn, but a few simple skills make all the difference. Learning from a qualified British Nordic Walking instructor helps you get the most from the poles safely and effectively.

Once you have the basics, you can Nordic Walk almost anywhere:

• Parks and trails
• Beaches and coast paths
• Countryside walks
• Urban routes
• Hills and mountains

All you need is comfortable clothing, suitable footwear and a willingness to give it a try.

Ready to Discover Nordic Walking?

Whether you want to improve your health, return to exercise, train harder, meet new people or simply enjoy walking in a whole new way, Nordic Walking has something to offer.

Take your first steps with British Nordic Walking and discover how walking with poles can transform the way you move, feel and explore. Find your nearest Nordic Walking experience