Introduction
If you’ve recently discovered Nordic Walking, you’re probably wondering how to get started — and whether it’s as simple as picking up a pair of poles and heading out.
The good news is that Nordic Walking is accessible, outdoor-based, and suitable for a wide range of abilities. The key is understanding the basics before you begin.
This guide explains everything a beginner needs to know — from choosing poles to learning proper technique and finding a qualified instructor near you.
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What Is Nordic Walking?
Nordic Walking is a structured form of walking that uses specially designed poles to engage the upper body while you walk.
Unlike trekking poles, Nordic Walking poles are designed to support a coordinated diagonal movement — opposite arm to opposite leg — creating a more active walking experience.
The technique originated from cross-country ski training and was later adapted into a fitness activity suitable for everyday outdoor environments.
If you’re completely new, you may wish to read our guide:
What Is Nordic Walking?
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What Do You Need to Start?
One reason Nordic Walking has grown in popularity is its simplicity.
As a beginner, you need:
• A pair of Nordic Walking poles
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Open space such as a park or path
You do not need specialist gym clothing, and you do not need to be highly fit before starting.
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Do You Need Special Poles?
Yes.
Nordic Walking poles differ from trekking poles. They typically include:
• Wrist straps designed to assist propulsion
• Lightweight shafts
• Rubber tips for pavement
• Carbide tips for trails
Using trekking poles can limit your ability to learn proper technique.
Correct pole length is also important. A simple starting guide is:
Your height × 0.68 = approximate pole length
Many beginners choose adjustable poles until they feel confident about their ideal size.
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Should You Take a Lesson?
Technically, you could experiment alone — but most beginners benefit from structured instruction.
Nordic Walking relies on coordinated diagonal movement. While it may look simple, common beginner challenges include:
• Planting poles too far forward
• Over-gripping the handles
• Forgetting to extend the arms
• Looking down instead of ahead
Learning correctly from the start makes the movement feel natural much sooner.
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The Learn to Nordic Walk Programme
As Nordic Walking expanded across the UK, Nordic Walking UK developed a structured induction pathway known as the Learn to Nordic Walk programme.
This programme was designed to provide consistency, safety and confidence for every new participant.
The format includes:
• Four one-hour sessions
• Progressive skill development
• Supervised practice
• Clear safety guidance
• Gradual coordination building
Rather than a single introductory session, the four-part structure allows:
• Time to embed technique
• Repetition to develop muscle memory
• Opportunity to ask questions
• Increased confidence before joining regular walks
This approach was developed to follow structured outdoor training standards similar to those used in disciplines such as sailing, canoeing and diving — where national consistency and competence are central.
By the end of the programme, participants should feel confident and capable of walking independently.
To reinforce national standards, Nordic Walking UK introduced the NWUK Passport.
The Passport confirms that a participant has successfully completed the Learn to Nordic Walk course and reached the minimum required competence.
This means the individual:
• Understands the diagonal technique
• Can use poles safely
• Is confident joining group walks
• Has completed structured induction
With a Passport, participants can book walks with other qualified instructors across the UK. Their training is recognised nationally, giving confidence to both participants and instructors.
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Minimum Competence: The Power of Poles Course
The minimum competence level within the NWUK structure is the basic shortened Power of Poles course.
This provides foundational understanding of:
• Safe pole placement
• Coordinated movement
• Basic propulsion
• Common technique errors
Once this foundation is achieved, participants can confidently progress to regular group walks.
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What Happens in Your First Session?
Your first session within the Learn to Nordic Walk programme typically includes:
1. Equipment Introduction
Learning how to fit and adjust your poles correctly.
2. Arm Swing Practice
Developing diagonal movement before adding full walking rhythm.
3. Coordinated Walking
Combining arm swing with natural stride.
4. Short Practice Route
Applying technique in a real outdoor setting.
Early sessions focus more on coordination than speed or distance.
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Is Nordic Walking Hard to Learn?
It can feel unfamiliar at first because your arms are more active than in everyday walking.
However, most beginners notice significant improvement within:
• The first session
• Or after 2–3 short practices
Focus on:
• Relaxed shoulders
• Natural stride
• Gentle pole placement behind you
• Looking ahead
Coordination develops surprisingly quickly with repetition.
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What Should You Wear?
You do not need specialist clothing.
For beginners:
• Comfortable trainers are usually sufficient
• Light layers work best
• Gloves can help in colder weather
• Avoid bulky jackets that restrict arm movement
Dress for the weather and terrain.
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How Fit Do You Need to Be?
You do not need to be highly fit.
Nordic Walking can be adapted to different levels:
• Gentle pace for beginners
• Moderate pace for general fitness
• More dynamic sessions for experienced walkers
Start comfortably. Progress gradually.
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How Often Should You Practise?
As a beginner:
• 2–3 short sessions per week
• 20–40 minutes at an easy pace
Consistency is more important than intensity.
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Finding a Nordic Walking Group Near You
Nordic Walking UK maintains a national instructor network across the country.
You can search for qualified instructors, courses and walks using the official portal:
👉 https://nordicwalking.co.uk/find-walks/
The search allows you to filter:
• Learn to Nordic Walk courses
• Regular group walks
• Specific locations
• Local instructors
This makes it easy to begin your journey — and continue it wherever you are in the UK.
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When Does It Start to Feel Natural?
Most beginners report:
• The first session feels unfamiliar
• The second feels smoother
• By the third, rhythm develops
The turning point comes when you stop consciously thinking about your arms and the movement becomes automatic.
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Final Thoughts
Starting Nordic Walking is straightforward — but learning the basics properly makes a significant difference.
Begin with:
• The right poles
• Structured instruction
• A relaxed approach
• Consistent practice
The Learn to Nordic Walk programme and Passport system were developed to ensure that every beginner receives a confident and safe introduction.
With the right foundation in place, Nordic Walking becomes an enjoyable, structured and sustainable outdoor activity.
