Nordic Walking was a game changer for me, I started Nordic Walking in 2014 after attending a taster then a 4 week ‘learn to Nordic Walk group’.  As someone living with Arthritis, Hypermobility and a range of difficulties neurologically, affecting fatigue and inflammation Nordic Walking really was something I embraced and like Yoga is ‘for life’.  

Using the poles, the stretches and the technique which encourages postural alignment with the poles which propel you forwards and the support they offer has significantly improved my joint mobility, reduced the pain in my knees and means I can manage longer distances and enjoy accessing green spaces, hills and uneven terrain.   

Both up and down hills with poles is much easier, also from a neuro perspective the ‘cross synaptic’ activity of right, left simultaneous activity with arm and leg opposite targeted movement helps the brain, body coordination. This rhythmic walking with all 4 limbs can be useful for people with Parkinsons as well as with a range of joint conditions, reduced balance, diabetes, lung conditions such as Asthma or COPD and people who would like to be out in nature and walking over mixed terrain (hills, valleys, paths and green areas).   

With regular Nordic Walking, I find with the ‘muscle memory’ I am channelling my Nordic Walking posture and this can help me stand, walk and transfer in daily tasks.   

I have been struggling since injuring my neck in 2021 and, for a while this impacted our groups. With funding, our volunteer team are growing with 2 new Nordic Walking instructors and 1 current Nordic walking leader.  

We offer classes on a sliding scale (affordable donations) so we can support all financial needs and offer accessible exercise. We started ‘You Matter’ Long term exercise sessions in September 2025 that include the Nordic walks and My Time Yoga and breath work (mat and / or chair based) at the Stow and access to the toning tables for passive stretches and core work.    Covid was tough for many of the team and community, so we are restarting a range of beginner’s classes and regular walks with a view to grow the community and support.  

Come along for a free taster and to get to grips with the poles we have ready for you. We have 60, min graded sessions for beginners or those returning to walking to relearn technique:  

Mondays – Harlow Town Park meeting Greyhound Car park 9:30am  

Fridays – Parndon Woods Car Park 11am  

Regular walks Wednesday morning (river Stort) , Friday Lunch ( Parndon Wood Nature Reserve) and we are starting weekend walks soon.

Click here to book.