It worked for us!

Three fans reveal how Nordic walking has transformed their fitness and their lives…

BEATING BACK PAIN

After a disc in her back ruptured, Penny Parker, 62, couldn’t sit at her desk for more than 10-15 minutes without acute sciatica and back pain. Then she tried a Nordic walking training weekend. ‘I didn’t have any flare-ups after so much exercise, so the effect was immediate,’ she says. ‘The lessening of chronic pain came over 6-12 weeks, as my back muscles got stronger.

I do still get back pain, but to a much lesser degree thanks to Nordic walking.’

EMBRACING EXERCISE

If motivating yourself to exercise is a struggle, then Julie Baxendale, 57, should be your poster girl! ‘Just 12 months ago I would never have dreamed of getting active in the rain,’ she says. ‘But since starting Nordic walking I’ve made some fantastic friends, walked in local areas I’ve never known about, got outside, got fitter, chatted about all sorts, laughed a lot, and boosted my mental health and wellbeing. Good weather or bad, every walk is worth it!’

IMPROVING MIND & BODY

Learning that she had stage three breast cancer was a devastating blow to Stephanie Kelly, 49. After surgery, intense radiotherapy and chemo, Steph had beaten the disease but it had taken its toll on her joints, immunity and mind. ‘I discovered Nordic walking via a cancer support group,’ she says. ‘I did the course and the rest is history. I now rarely have joint pain, my immune system is tip-top, my fitness has improved tenfold – and my depression has lifted.’