Role: WALX Master

Denise is the driving force behind WALX Coast & Country and is rarely short of a new idea, challenge or adventure for the group. With more than 30 years’ experience in the fitness industry, she brings a huge amount of knowledge, but members probably know her best for her enthusiasm, encouragement and ability to persuade them they’re capable of a little more than they thought.

Role: WALX Guide

Since joining the Coast and Country WALX group  I have been introduced to walking in many places by the sea and in the countryside. There is something different to experience on every walk, and being able to exercise outdoors with other people enjoying their company and nature is brilliant. I have enjoyed entering some local events and recently completed the Beachy Head Marathon, which was an amazing experience. I lead a variety of of Nordic WALX and Total Body WALX.

Role: WALX Guide

I really enjoy being outdoors and keeping active. I worked in education but now that I’ve stopped working, I’m fortunate to be able to get outside more during the week. In my younger days I did a lot of running and more recently loved doing Boot Camp, but my knees can’t cope with that now! For me, Nordic Walking is great all round exercise, especially with some of the Total Body WALX which add even more variety. I joined the group in 2016 and my fitness levels have definitely improved. The group is very friendly and supportive; no matter what your fitness level everyone can exercise at their own pace and you get lots of encouragement. There’s lots of chatting during the sessions so it’s a very sociable way of exercising. We are also fortunate to have some beautiful places to walk and take in the fresh air – what more could you want? I enjoy leading the Nordic WALX sessions, I have a lot of fun.

Role: WALX Guide

I joined Nordic Walking with the Littlehampton group in 2017 after finishing my career in the aerospace industry. I’ve always enjoyed keeping active whilst at the same time being outdoors taking in the fresh air. I took up the activity as a means to achieving both objectives, and I never looked back. I’ve now retired but in my youth I was always keen to participate in sports and maintain a healthy work and lifestyle balance. Following recent back surgery, I’ve found Nordic Walking greatly contributed to the recovery process whilst at the same time helped to enhance my fitness level. The biggest bonus is that you can exercise whilst simultaneously having a good chat and a laugh with likeminded individuals.  Nordic Walking is not only beneficial from a physiological standpoint, it’s also good for your mental wellbeing. We are fortunate to have such beautiful coast and countryside in which to walk and escape the daily stresses of life. The group is extremely friendly and supportive, and no matter what your fitness level is there are sessions that are suited to everyone’s abilities. My greatest Nordic Walking achievement thus far has been putting in a respectable time at the Chichester half marathon. I’m presently doing the Walk 1000 Miles Annual Challenge, and hope to complete The Beachy Head half marathon next year.  

Role: WALX Guide

I wasn’t particularly sporty in my younger days and even managed to get out of PE at school by doing a Photography O-level instead. Having studied Nutrition at university, I understand the importance of exercise in maintaining your health and well-being. I’ve tried working out in a gym, swimming once a week and even a bit of boxercise but it was only when I started Nordic Walking early in 2018, that I found an activity that I really enjoy.  There’s nothing better than being out in the open air in the company of your fellow walkers with the option of a leisurely stroll or a faster challenge. My fitness levels and flexibility have improved and I’ve completed the Chichester half-marathon as well as the Beachey Head Marathon and taken part in a number of charity walks.

Role: WALX Guide

I have been qualified as a Chartered Physiotherapist for 39 years. Initially I worked in a number of different acute hospital settings, but for over 20 years I worked in local NHS Worthing Community Teams, specializing in treating Neurological patients. I have specialists most recently in treating people with Parkinson’s disease. I’m now retired from the NHS and work as a Private Physiotherapist. I treat clients in their own homes; and I also instruct a weekly exercise class in Worthing and a monthly Washington class for the  local Parkinson’s UK branch. Nordic walking for people with Neurological disease I want to enable people with reduced mobility as a result of Parkinson’s disease, and other Neurological conditions, to have the benefit of experiencing Nordic walking to help them to improve their stamina and ability to walk further. Also to give them the opportunity of getting outside to walk more regularly, and to experience the benefits of walking in a group. The benefits of Nordic walking are many. Here are some that are more specific for Parkinson’s disease.it allows for more fluid movement helps to loosen stiff joints and strengthen muscles it promotes better posture by improving core strength encourages arm swing during walking promotes a more rhythmical and reciprocal gait pattern increases aerobic activity it improves balance it may increase walking speed enables people to walk further outside, and to socialise.I teach the ACTIVATOR/RE-HAB class as part of the Wellness WALX programme.

Role: Guide

Exercise, companionship, lovely walks what’s not to love about Nordic Walking. I have enjoyed it so much and become so much fitter, I have become a walk leader.

Role: Guide

I joined Nordic walking about a year after the group started and it has given me many hours of healthy enjoyment. I love walking in the countryside with new and not-so-new friends and the treat of coffee afterwards. I am looking forward to taking on my new role as a walk leader and hopefully will introduce a few new walks to the mix.

Role: Guide

Exercise, good company and fresh air .. some of the reasons I love Nordic Walking. I have become healthier, both mentally and physically, and have made some super friends. I’ve now become a Walk Leader, so I’m now looking forward to sharing this wonderful exercise with many more people, and uncovering more exciting walks in the beautiful West Sussex countryside.

Role: Walk Leader

I have been a keen nordic walker in Devon for 10 years after I retired from primary school teaching. I recently moved back to Hampshire and was very pleased to find the Chichester group. I’ve very much enjoyed discovering the lovely walks and villages of the South Downs and the pretty coast and walking with the group who have been so friendly and  welcoming. I find nordic walking to be an ideal exercise for keeping fit without much risk of injury and the peaceful countryside is great for lifting the spirits. I’ve been looking for a new challenge and becoming a walk leader fits the bill perfectly.

Role: Guide

Whether it is a cardiac workout walking up the downs with fantastic views or a peaceful flat walk along the beach Nordic walking never fails to deliver an uplifting experience. It is a lovely way to meet new people and enjoy a chat and welcome cup of coffee after the walk. It is my favourite park of the week.

Role: Guide

Hello, I am Sushma, and I am looking forward to walking with you soon. Nordic Walking is the only exercise type I love, being outdoors in the fresh air, its sociable, and my whole body is having a full workout whilst I am having fun. Through WALX there are a range of activities and locations on offer, so its flexible, versatile, and never boring- it suits my lifestyle!”

Role: Guide

For many, many years I was a keen participant in a wide range of outdoor activities which gave me great pleasure and enjoyment. I was also fortunate that many aspects of this outdoor life were absorbed into my 31 year career in the fire service. Over the years I gained a lot of experience both through participating in outdoor activities and sharing that experience with others. Then, in 2006 and without any previous indication, I had a bit of a wobbler that resulted in my balance, coordination and stamina being somewhat compromised. My days of enjoying the outdoor life came to an abrupt halt. Recovery of my lost capabilities was slow, but steady. I even managed to complete the Great North Run 5 more times (albeit rather slowly), but my lack of balance and coordination severely limited my ability to walk on unmade ground or safely negotiate hills. I was lucky to have access to the amazing rehabilitation services of the Firefighters Charity and subsequently an excellent specialist neurological physiotherapist who helped me progress in many ways. Walking other than on a properly laid footpath, however, remained very challenging and then my physio suggested that I try Nordic Walking. WOW! What a difference. For the first time in over ten years I was able to enjoy the beauty of our coast and countryside first hand with the Coast and Country group who are friendly motivating and inclusive, irrespective of age or ability. I’ve now been Nordic Walking for over 5 years and am delighted to have the opportunity to participate as a walk leader. As a walk leader I hope to share my enthusiasm, support wellbeing, maintain the ethos of the Coast and Country group and help all taking part have fun.

Role: Walk Leader

I have always loved walking, and since discovering Nordic walking have enjoyed it even more. I fully retired from working in NHS mental health services two years ago and looking forward to my new venture.

Role: Walk Leader

‘I became a member of Coast and Country 7 years ago. Having being diagnosed with some chest issues it was critical to find a method of exercising to assist and improve my lung function. Having worked in factory machine shop environments through my working career I thoroughly enjoy being outdoors in the fresh air come rain or shine. Denise came to the rescue with Nordic Walking which fitted the requirements exactly. The social side of the group is a serious plus and is extremely important to general wellbeing. I am excited and looking forward to being a walk leader and helping others in all aspects of maintaining health and gaining friends along the way.’

Role: Guide

Many of you already know me as I am Denise’s partner. When she first tried to drag me along to specific events, I was not keen. I have always enjoyed running and walking but I had mainly done that as a solo effort. Walking in groups had not appealed to me until I started walking with WALX Coast and Country. I now love a walk and a chat but more surprisingly I have realised how much more effective walking with poles can be. As a cyclist I have good breathing and strong legs, but all cyclists will tell you core and upper body strength can be weak. The poles have made a real difference.

Role: WALX Guide

I have a real passion for exercise and training in the outdoors. I have always enjoyed walking, especially with my dog in the countryside, so when I was introduced to Nordic Walking I took to it straight away. Nordic Walking is great for your physical health but I also  appreciate how good it is for your mental health. You can benefit from being in the fresh air as well as the social aspect. One of my favorite walks is Ditchling Beacon, with the lovely views of the South Downs, but I still I have so much more of the Downs to explore. I have a background in YOGA and designed the YOGA WALX programme for Exercise Anywhere. Yoga in the outdoors environment brings a whole new feeling of relaxation and wellbeing.  

Role: WALX Coach

I recently moved to Rustington from Horsham having been born and bred in South Wales. Following a career in logistics I got out of the ‘rat race’ in 2007, retrained as a Fitness Professional and for the last seven years have run an outdoor fitness business in Horsham. Having taught many forms and exercise to individuals and groups both indoors and outside Nordic Walking has always been the constant activity I return to. The combination of the benefits of being in the great outdoors with the natural movement of Nordic Walking cannot be beaten in terms of health and wellbeing and offers something for everyone. It can be done anytime, anyplace, anywhere, individually or with friends and can range from a leisurely social stroll to a full on fitness session, trek or challenge. I am really looking forward to joining the Walx community and exploring this wonderful part of the country.

Role: Walk Leader

It all began in 2014. Along with two friends I took lessons in Nordic Walking and in 2015 we completed the Chichester Half Marathon. I’ve been walking ever since and two years ago joined WALX and Denise’s brilliant gang. I have found that walking on a regular basis means I can improve my fitness, enjoy being outdoors (even in the rain) and have a fun, sociable time all in one go. If I can help others achieve the same enjoyment, that’s even better. I’ve lived in Funtington for 25 years and look forward to finding some new walks to explore.

Role: Walk Leader

I first found out about Nordic Walking when my wife, Paula, joined the group. She seemed to be having too much fun, so I decided to investigate further. Having always enjoyed walking, at that time I was restricted by osteoarthritis of both ankles. Following the replacement of one ankle joint I joined up (doing training with Colin on 2 rainy Saturdays run by Denise on Littlehampton Sea front). From slower beginnings, replacement of the second allowed me to increase my range and enjoyment of walks. Walking is part of the joy of this group, but it is my fellow walkers who add the magic touch. I have increasingly been involved in social activities, annual walking weekends away, birthday meals and much more. As a new walk leader l look forward to showing you some of our beautiful Sussex countryside, using established trails and perhaps adding something new. Michael