Nordic walking for older people

How can I encourage my parents to keep active?  This is a question we often hear. We know that by doing planned exercise , our parents will keep fitter – not only physically but also mentally

There’s nothing like a good brisk walk to feel energised and alive.  However, arthritis and other common health problems, as well as just feeling older and more tired sometimes stop us opening the door and venturing outside.

How can we make it easier and also ensure it’s so enjoyable we want to do it again and again?  Well we have discovered that Nordic Walking is the ideal activity for both elderly and middle aged folk, which means it’s something carers can do together with their parents – or on their own

What is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking is an enhanced walking experience that uses poles to work your upper body as well as your legs

The result is a highly effective all over workout that doesn’t feel like one!  Nordic Walking is a fun and social activity that can be done in town or country throughout the year

Do my parents need to be fit?

If they can walk, they can Nordic Walk!

Nordic Walking really is for everyone.  The poles mean that effort is shared between the upper and lower body so it actually feels easier than normal walking, particularly uphill

It’s really good exercise for problem areas such as the arms, stomach and bottom.  But forget ‘no pain, no gain’, this is ‘no pain, all gain’!

Nordic Walking puts less strain on joints than other activities and can be very effective for people with mobility issues or those recovering from illness or injury

How do my parents learn to Nordic Walk?

British Nordic Walking as qualified instructors all around the country who hold classes and individual lessons to help you and your parents pick up the simple technique involved

Perhaps a lesson would make a lovely Mother’s day, Father’s day or birthday present?

Just visit our website www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk to find your local instructor, or give us a call on 0845 301 1347

What do we need?

The simple answer is nothing, but a pair of Nordic Walking poles; instructors have poles that you can use

Walking shoes or trainers and layered clothing will help you enjoy the activity whatever the weather, but you can wear what you would wear if you were going for a walk in the park

There isn’t an instructor near me

Contact British Nordic Walking on 0845 301 1347 or by [email protected], because they are training new instructors and setting up new groups across the UK all the time and may have a solution for you.

If you would like to set up a group in your area, British Nordic Walking deliver the International Nordic Walking Federation Instructor training courses at several training centres in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. See http://www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk/BecomeInstructor.aspx for dates and more information