Become a Nordic Walking Instructor
Train to an internationally recognised standard and start teaching with confidence
If you love Nordic walking and want to share it with others, becoming an instructor is a natural progression.
Whether you’re looking for a new career, a flexible side income, or simply a meaningful way to help people get active outdoors, British Nordic Walking will support you every step of the way. No prior teaching experience is needed.
We don’t just train instructors — we develop confident, knowledgeable professionals who are ready to lead safe, effective and enjoyable sessions from day one.
We offer courses across the UK, all delivered to the same high standard.
Why choose British Nordic Walking
British Nordic Walking is the official UK representative of the International Nordic Walking Association (INWA). Your qualification is internationally recognised and based on the gold-standard INWA 10 Step Method Teaching method.
Complete Training Pathway
Online learning + in-person training + ongoing support
Lifetime Learning Resources
Videos, drills, session plans and teaching guidance you can revisit anytime
Supportive Community
Join a network of instructors across the UK
Our next course dates and venues:
What's included in the course
Our Nordic Walking Instructor Course is designed to give you the skills, confidence and practical experience to teach Nordic Walking successfully. We don’t just show you what to teach, we focus on how to teach it in a way that is clear, engaging and enjoyable for every walker. You’ll learn how to introduce Nordic Walking to complete beginners, how to support and motivate mixed ability groups, and how to progress more experienced Nordic Walkers with confidence.
The course includes our easy to follow 10 Step System, technique drills, fun group exercises, warm ups and stretches using the poles, plus plenty of practical teaching tips you can use straight away. By the end of the course, you’ll feel ready to deliver safe, effective and inspiring Nordic Walking sessions.
Online Learning
Study at your own pace. Build your knowledge and understanding before you arrive.
2 Day in person course
Hands-on coaching in a small group (max 10 people)
Ongoing support & community
12 months BNW membership + continued guidance as you begin teaching
What happens after the course
After completing the course our instructors journeys take many different directions. Some go on to build successful Nordic walking businesses, running regular classes, workshops, day experiences and holidays. Others teach more casually or volunteer in their communities, helping people improve their health, confidence and connection to the outdoors.
There’s no single path, you can shape teaching Nordic Walking around your own lifestyle and goals.
Watch the following videos to hear from our instructors. Discover what its like to get started, to teach Nordic Walking and be part of British Nordic Walking.
An investment in your future
At £525, this course gives you everything you need to start teaching with confidence — not just a qualification, but the skills, resources and support to actually use it.
The course fee includes : lifetime access to the online foundation course and video resources : 2 days of in person training at one of our centres : assessment and certification : 1 years membership of British Nordic Walking.
Payment option of instalments via Klarna
Many instructors recover their course fee within their first few months of teaching.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy any equipment?
Yes. Most Nordic Walking Instructors will buy a set of teaching poles for their beginners to use, typically 5-10 pairs. Via our sponsor, Nordic Walk Store, we offer discounted sets of poles for our instructors. www.nordicwalk.store
Do I need any previous teaching or fitness qualifications?
No. You don’t need any prior teaching experience or fitness qualifications. The course is designed to guide you step-by-step, building your confidence as both a Nordic walker and an instructor.
How fit do I need to be?
You don’t need to be super fit. As long as you enjoy Nordic walking and are comfortable being active outdoors, you’ll be absolutely fine. The focus is on good technique and effective teaching — not high fitness levels. If you have concerns or questions about your health or fitness please give us a call for a chat.
What happens before the in-person training?
You’ll gain access to the INWA 10 Step Method Foundation Course, which you can complete at your own pace. This gives you a strong understanding of technique and teaching before the practical training. Plus lots of useful video material.
What happens after I qualify?
You’ll receive 12 months British Nordic Walking membership, along with ongoing support as you start teaching. You’ll also be part of a network of instructors across the UK. New instructors can buy discounted sets of teaching poles from our partner Nordic Walk Store.
Can I really earn money from this?
Yes — many instructors run regular classes and build successful, flexible businesses. Others choose to teach part-time or alongside other work.
What if I’m not sure it’s right for me?
That’s completely normal. If you’d like to talk it through, we’re very happy to have an informal chat and answer any questions. We can also arrange fro you to chat with one of our established instructors.