Total body walking is a natural but effective way to walk with unique patented WALX poles which have been designed to harness the power of the upper body and make you lighter on your feet.

Is total body walking just Nordic walking?

It has evolved from Nordic walking following over 20 years of delivery by the experts at Nordic walking UK who identified that many participants struggled with strict techniques which were originally derived from cross country skiing and not necessarily suitable. However it is fundamentally different and more inclusive.

What’s different?

The WALX poles have no glove like straps which are fundamental to strict traditional Nordic walking and yet are difficult to master and often not used correctly.

At WALX (founders of Nordic walking UK and leading experts) we believe the new patented ergonomic handle and 15 degree angle to the top of the pole shaft on WALX poles eliminates the following common faults which negate all benefits of using poles.

• Overgripping of poles
• Compromising wrist angle
• Not using the straps correctly
• Planting poles too upright which does not provide forward propulsion

Now, we do not have to spend time overcoming these issues as WALX poles have been specifically designed to simply provide a positive experience from the first step.

How is total body walking taught?

During our POWER OF POLES workshops, this pole innovation enables us to spend time ensuring people use their arms correctly, maximise core engagement and FEEL the benefits straight way.

Participants feel empowered and are walking naturally at a level that rights for them. We teach our Instructors to adapt movement, pace and pole uses to suit the fitness level and goals of every participant. Rather than focusing on getting the right ‘technique’ they leave knowing that poles will help them get fit, ease aches and pains or simply perform better in the hills.

How long is a Power of poles session?

Typically the Instructors allow up to 90 minutes but some participants may not be up to being active for that period so WALX have built in adaptations that work for all levels. Those with health and mobility concerns may only complete the basic section and not go on to use poles on hills or at pace for instance. They may also be invited to attend WALX wellness sessions where they will gently improve their pole walking in a friendly supportive group.

Who teaches Total body walking?

We have a network of former Nordic walking Instructors across the UK who now teach total body walking. We also have many who have gone on to be WALX MASTERS which means they can also add wellness and fitness drills to their sessions. In addition, total body walking instructor/leader training was funded by Parkinson’s UK so many community and rehabilitation partners have moved away from strapping people into poles – which can be a trip hazard.

Total body walking is so effective it is also being rolled out in other countries too –  already with over 60 Instructors in Italy and a new academy in Taiwan.

The WALX team are busy setting up International WALX programmes all over the globe as the simple but effective technique is the solution to getting people active outdoors!

2025 is set to be the year of total body walking and we need MORE TOTAL BODY WALKING INSTRUCTORS to help us change lives – apply now – e mail gill@walx.co.uk or enrol HERE

For International enquiries please e mail.