Nordic walking provides both physical and mental benefits due to its whole-body movement and the fact it is outdoors and in nature. Nordic walking combines cardiovascular exercise with a vigorous muscle workout for your shoulders, arms, core, and legs.
Who Can Try Nordic Walking?
Nordic Walking is suitable for a wide range of people and can be adapted to different fitness levels and abilities.
All fitness levels
Whether you're just starting a new activity or looking for a different way to stay active, Nordic Walking offers a full-body workout that can be enjoyed at your own pace.
Older adults
Nordic Walking can help improve balance, posture, coordination and upper-body strength while providing a low-impact way to stay active.
People with mild joint discomfort
Using specially designed poles can help reduce strain on the hips, knees and ankles, making Nordic Walking a comfortable activity for many people.
People returning to activity
Nordic Walking can be a great way to rebuild confidence and fitness. If you have an existing medical condition, have recently had surgery, or have concerns about taking part, please seek advice from your GP or healthcare professional before attending.
Please note: Participants must be able to walk unaided to take part in Nordic Walking. Nordic Walking poles are designed to enhance walking technique and movement rather than provide support in the same way as mobility aids.
New to Nordic Walking?
Whether you're completely new to Nordic Walking or looking to build your confidence, we have a range of opportunities to help you get started.
Start your Nordic Walking journey with a free taster session before progressing to our three-week training course and regular walks.
Free Nordic Walking Taster Sessions
Interested in giving Nordic Walking a try?
Our free 30-minute taster sessions are the perfect introduction to Nordic Walking. You'll learn the basics from our qualified British Nordic Walking instructors, try the technique for yourself and discover the benefits of this increasingly popular activity.
These sessions are:
- Free to attend
- For adults aged 18 years+
- Pole hire included
- Suitable for beginners
- No experience required
Taster Session Dates
DATES |
TIMES |
MEETING POINT |
Monday 3 August |
10.30am-11.00am & 11.15am-11.45am |
Forthbank - meet at front door |
Thursday 6 August |
10.00am-10.30am & 12.15pm-12.45pm |
Tennis Courts at King’s Park, Stirling |
Friday 7 August |
10.30am-11.00am |
Forthbank - meet at front door |
Monday 10 August |
10.30am-11.00am & 11.15am-11.45am |
Forthbank - meet at front door |
Thursday 13 August |
10.00am-10.30am & 12.15pm-12.45pm |
Tennis Courts at King’s Park, Stirling |
Friday 14 August |
10.30am-11.00am |
Forthbank - meet at front door |
How to book
Book your free taster session via the Active Stirling app (under class section, 7 days in advance), at The Peak reception or call 01786 273555.
Please note: A Health Commitment Statement must be completed before taking part. This can be accessed via the home screen of the Active Stirling app.
Nordic Walking Training Course
Learn the Technique, Build Your Confidence
Ready to take the next step?
Our Nordic Walking Training Course is designed for people who want to learn the technique properly and gain the skills and confidence to join regular Nordic Walking sessions.
Delivered by our qualified Nordic Walking instructors, the course follows the internationally recognised INWA 10-Step Teaching Method in partnership with British Nordic Walking.
This course is suitable for adults 18 years+.
Course Details*
- 3-week course
- 1-hour session each week
- Pole hire included
DATES |
TIME |
VENUE |
COST |
Monday 17, 24 & 31 August |
10.00am-11.00am |
Forthbank |
£25.00 |
Thursday 20, 27 Aug & 3 Sept |
9.30am-10.30am or 12.15pm-1.15pm |
Tennis Courts, King’s Park Stirling |
£25.00 |
Friday 21, 28 Aug & 4 Sept |
10.30am-11.30am |
Forthbank |
£25.00 |
* Please note – participants must be able to attend all three course dates.
What You'll Learn
Over three weeks you'll:
- Learn the Nordic Walking technique step-by-step
- Improve posture and walking efficiency
- Build confidence using Nordic Walking poles
- Understand how to get the most from each walk
- Prepare to join regular Nordic Walking groups
How to book
Book your course via the Active Stirling app (under class section, 7 days in advance from starting date), at The Peak reception or call 01786 273555.
Please note: A Health Commitment Statement must be completed before taking part. This can be accessed via the home screen of the Active Stirling app.
For more information, email walking@activestirling.org.uk.
We will be training on grass and paths during taster and training sessions.
Footwear:
- Flexible walking shoes (no open toe sandals/crocs)
- Trainers/Running Shoes: Great for beginners, paved paths, and dry, flat local parks.
- Trail Shoes: Ideal for muddy, uneven dirt tracks or gravel paths because they offer extra grip.
- Heavy Boots: Avoid stiff or heavy hiking boots, as Nordic walking requires your foot to flex naturally from heel to toe with every step
Clothing: Stretchy, breathable sports clothes or layers that do not restrict arm and shoulder movement. Include a light waterproof jacket or windbreaker just in case as we will still be going ahead in wet weather. In darker weather, please wear Hi-Vis and head torch.
Poles: If you have your own, please bring Nordic Walking poles with the glove-like straps (not standard hiking or trekking poles). If you don’t have poles, don’t worry, we can lend you poles for the sessions.
Hydration: A small rucksack or waist belt to carry water, medication and keys, leaving hands free for the pole straps.
Nordic walking weekly timetable
| DAYS | TIMES | |
Wednesday (rural Stirling) | 1.30pm-3.00pm | walking@activestirling.org.uk for details of meeting point |
All our walks are free
No need to book just turn up and we will ask you to complete a new walker registration form. See link to registration form below.
How to join a walk
- To join in all you need to do is turn up at the meeting point and at the start time.
- If it is your first time, please arrive ten minutes before your first walk to meet your volunteer walk leader and fill in a quick registration form.
- Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.
- Walks are for adults – children under 16 are welcome but they need to be accompanied by an adult.
In the event of bad weather walks may be cancelled.
Please check our website for updates or you can e-mail us at: walking@activestirling.org.uk
