Thank you for visiting our page and browsing our website. Our walks are based around Derby and Ashbourne area as well as delivering long walks in the Peak District. We love to empower people of all ages and abilities to be regularly active in the outdoors and offer many different levels of weekly walks. Our shared enjoyment of the great outdoors and our beautiful county and parklands gives us many opportunities to feel amazing! If you want to improve your fitness, boost your mood and meet other people on gorgeous walks then we have a solution for you.
One thing for sure is that you are never alone on a WALX.
WALX is an inspirational global organisation committed to helping people get the most out of every step they take! Based in Dorset, England we help local Instructors to provide workshops and regular walks for all levels – guaranteed to add smiles to your miles! Our unique total body walking poles and programmes are designed to help you get the results YOU want. Whether you want to walk more comfortably with less joint pain, enjoy regular walking workouts in a sociable group or train for a long distance hike – we will get you there.
Total body walking helps you to walk with confidence, boost fitness, reduce fatigue and connect with nature!
These sociable group walks vary in distance and are always clearly marked according to intensity, elevation, and pace. You will feel inspired to discover wonderful paths, hidden locations, and the best hospitality in the area. Come along with or without poles to engage with nature and enjoy walking in a friendly group. Enjoy themed walks from bluebells to history and more!
Walking workouts at their best. You will see fast results from these sessions which combine pace, poles and exercises to boost fitness and strength. Skilled Instructors will make sure you work at the right level and keep improving – turning the great outdoors into a highly effective gym. Fun and sociable, these sessions are designed for those who want every step to count!
Gentle walks that combine being active outdoors with gentle strength, mobility and balance exercises and even specific rehabilitation for those who need it.
The qualified Instructors will help you to enjoy walking at the right pace for you whilst helping you to make the most of every step. They combine the use of poles with exercises that improve posture, fitness and mental health.
The video shows how WALX naturally engages your whole body and can fit easily into your day, supporting posture, balance, and overall wellbeing.
Take a peek at what you might get up to on one of our Walx
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When Anne joined WALX Derwent and Dales in 2021, she wasn’t new to exercise. She’d always enjoyed walking, regularly went to the gym and loved being outdoors. Like many people, she was simply looking for something different. What she found was far more than a new way to exercise. She found a community. She found
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There are some places that leave a lasting impression long after you’ve returned home, and Assynt is undoubtedly one of them. Situated in the far north-west Highlands of Scotland, Assynt is a landscape unlike any other. Ancient mountains rise dramatically from a patchwork of lochs, moorland and coastline, creating one of Britain’s most spectacular and […]
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As we age, many of us start to notice subtle changes in our bodies. Perhaps you feel a little unsteady when you stand on one leg, or you catch yourself holding your breath when bending down to pick something up. The truth is, these are small reminders of how important it is to keep moving […]
Role: WALX Master
Samantha Armstrong is the owner of WALX Derwent & Dales and has been inspiring people to lead healthier, more active lives since founding the business in 2008. With a background in personal training, sports massage therapy and outdoor leadership, she recognised the powerful benefits that exercising outdoors has on both our physical and mental wellbeing and set out to help others experience them for themselves. As a qualified Mountain Leader and WALX Regional Tutor, Sam delivers a wide range of weekly fitness, wellbeing and Explorer WALX sessions, as well as guided mountain days, walking holidays, navigation training and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. She is passionate about creating safe, welcoming and inclusive experiences that help people build confidence, improve their fitness and discover just how much they are capable of achieving. Sam’s love of the outdoors has taken her and her members on adventures throughout the UK and Europe, but nowhere compares to sharing the spectacular landscapes of the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District that she is proud to call home. Supported by a dedicated team of instructors and walk leaders who share her passion for the outdoors, Sam has built far more than a walking group. WALX Derwent & Dales is a thriving outdoor health and active ageing community where friendships flourish, confidence grows and people of all ages and abilities are empowered to live healthier, happier and more active lives.“Walking is simply how we begin. Better health, greater confidence, lasting friendships and a more active life are where the journey really leads.”
Role: WALX Coach
Steve qualified in 2021 to be a WALX Coach for WALX Derwent and Dales. Encompassing and appreciating the outside environment has played a major part in Steve’s life style over many years, and following early retirement from work he now has a lot more time to fully enjoy the great outdoors . Steve took up Nordic Walking in 2018 and became a WALX Guide before a Coach and remembers vividly completing his initial training in what was one of the wettest and windiest weekends we have had for a while. Despite that he knew that Nordic Walking was an ideal and really enjoyable exercise option for him and complimented the many years he had previously spent walking for pleasure. Prior to qualifying as a WALX Coach, Steve has been an active member of WALX Derwent and Dales and has joined us on many of our sessions and walks both near and far. Steve once commented “ its amazing how my fitness and stamina levels have improved thanks to Nordic Walking, it’s a great outdoor exercise with the added bonus of being part of a group which is so friendly and welcoming” Steve has achieved the Silver National Navigation Award and is very competent in the hills.
Role: Instructor
Helen is an experienced NHS Physiotherapist specialising in movement disorders, particularly Parkinson’s. She is passionate about helping people improve their mobility, confidence and quality of life through movement. As a WALX Instructor, Helen combines her clinical knowledge with a friendly, encouraging approach, supporting members to move with greater confidence, improve their fitness and enjoy the many physical and mental wellbeing benefits of being active outdoors.
Role: WALX Guide
Jacky has been a WALX Guide for WALX Derwent and Dales since 2009. This was after walking for pleasure for many years previous to that with a friend who had had a stroke and wanted to go to the gym. She suggested looking at the countryside for exercise as it would be far more pleasurable. After just a year of Nordic Walking, Jacky was leading her own evening class, enjoying torch lit winter evenings and long and bright summer evenings. Jacky has never looked back and amazes herself all the time with the distances she walks, thinking back to the time she would never have considered walking to any of the villages surrounding Ashbourne. Now, Jacky has travelled to many places around Europe and in the UK as well as all the local areas. Nordic walking is a great pass time, and an excellent form of exercise, in the fresh air, with beautiful scenery and the best company. So although her walking started off as helping a friend to get over a stroke it turned out to be the best stroke of luck for her. Jacky is a dedicated member of the team and always around to support us when needed.
Role: Instructor
Lisa is a Contact Lens Optician with a genuine passion for health, fitness and living an active lifestyle. She believes that regular exercise and spending time outdoors play an important role in maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing. As a WALX Instructor, Lisa enjoys encouraging others to challenge themselves, build confidence and discover just how enjoyable keeping fit can be. Her enthusiasm and supportive nature make her a valued member of the WALX Derwent & Dales team.
Role: Instructor and Mountain Leader
Ken Hames MBE is an internationally respected explorer, expedition leader, broadcaster and former Special Air Service (SAS) soldier, bringing a lifetime of experience in leadership, adventure and the outdoors. Known for his television work, including Beyond Boundaries and Lost World, Ken has inspired people to embrace challenge, develop resilience and explore the natural world with confidence. As well as supporting the delivery of our regular Explorer WALX and Total Body WALX fitness sessions, Ken works alongside WALX Derwent & Dales to lead mountain adventures and outdoor skills events. His relaxed, approachable style and wealth of experience help participants build confidence, develop practical skills and create unforgettable experiences in some of the UK’s most spectacular landscapes.
Role: WALX Guide
Julia is a WALX guide for WALX Derwent and Dales and has been Nordic Walking since 2009. She was not previously a walker or particularly active but with weight gain, arthritis and retirement on the horizon she finally took herself in hand after reading an article about Nordic Walking and gave it a go. Like so many other people she found it addictive and has never looked back. Now her arthritis is manageable with sensible eating and exercise, and she has lost weight and changed shape without really trying. She has met some wonderful people who have become firm friends and has discovered the beautiful countryside in Derbyshire and well beyond. She is fitter and happier than she has ever been. She is out walking in all weathers and still surprise herself with the distances she walks, the terrain she is tackling and the challenges she is prepared to take on. For Julia, Nordic Walking has been a real-life changer and a day without her poles is a day wasted. Julia delivers her own evening sessions is a dedicated Guide and is always on hand to support other groups.
Role: Walk Leader
Anne is a talented designer who creates beautiful handcrafted felt pieces using traditional techniques, producing unique interior accessories, fashion items and artwork inspired by the natural world. Since joining WALX Derwent & Dales, Anne has become one of our most valued members, embracing every opportunity to improve her fitness, explore new places and take on adventures she never imagined possible. Through her determination, the encouragement and growing confidence from taking part in the walks, she has achieved heights she once thought were beyond her. A familiar face across many of our weekly walks, fitness sessions and online classes, Anne became a Walk Leader to give something back to the community that has supported her own journey. She now enjoys helping others discover the same sense of achievement, friendship and enjoyment that WALX has brought to her.
Role: WALX Guide
Ralph has been a WALX Guide for WALX Derwent and Dales since November 2018, having been introduced to Nordic Walking with Sam in March earlier that year. Initially a Primary School Teacher by profession, he chose to take a period out of teaching through a 5-year Short Service Commission in the Royal Marines, which subsequently extended to a Full Career Commission lasting 28 years, having specialised as a helicopter pilot although a lower spine operation in 1980 had ended the flying aspects of his career; there was to be no return to the classroom. With such an active profession, he not surprisingly maintained his fitness throughout his years of service, but subsequently found this less easy on retirement from the Corps, leading to an increase in weight which was not helped by the need for medical procedures, firstly for bowel cancer and later for the replacement of both arthritic hips. Having been brought up very much in the outdoor environment through hiking and birdwatching with his father, Nordic Walking has enabled him to return to these country pleasures, hopefully to the ornithological benefit of his fellow walkers, whilst at the same time leading to a reduction in weight and a return of much of his lost fitness and stamina. Whilst he has had to accept some limitations in speed and uphill capabilities following his back and hip operations, this has enabled him to concentrate more on the Wellbeing aspects of Nordic Walking which he thoroughly enjoys, along the social side of Nordic Walking in general. “Where would I be now without Nordic Walking in my life? I hate to think!”
Role: WALX Guide
John Beddoes – WALX Guide John became a walk leader for Walx Derwent and Dales in December 2020 after 4 years of being a group member. During John’s teenage years, he was a member for the Derby 125 scout group and became a Queen Scout in 1965. In the same year, he started work at British Celanese in their research chemistry labs where he worked at British Celanese for 17 years. John retired from full time work in 2010 and during the years 1965 to 2015 he was a member of the British Red Cross and for 45 years he was an instructor in first aid for both members of the society and for industry for first aid at work, during that time he probably trained 1000’s in first aid. He stopped in 2015 as he thought that 45 years was enough. In 2016 at a Derby day held at Kedleston Hall National Trust property he met Samantha Armstrong who had a stall demonstrating Nordic Walking. He had a taster and during the month of October attended the official 4-week starter achieved his Nordic Walking passport on October 28th 2016, he has never looked back. At the beginning of 2020 he decided that he wanted to lose some weight, but the lockdown came, and we had to stop walking. In order to keep the group going and in touch with each other Sam ran Zoom sessions which included lots of exercise. It became obvious that his weight loss could be achieved with all the exercise plus his own walking exercise and an eating plan that meant eating less but not changing any of the food he ate just the amount. The result of all the exercise and eating regime is he has lost 3 stones; his muscle tone has improved and meets with the approval of my osteopath. John will be supporting the Wellness Walks.
Role: WALX Guide and Fitness Coach
I came to be a Walk Leader by chance as one day whilst I was out running with my group and Sam was route checking locally, we met, got on well and the rest is history. As a qualified Personal Trainer and running coach, I was already experienced and have an extensive knowledge of the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District. Apart from helping out WALX Derwent and Dales with their Total Body WALX and Explorer WALX I offer both Personal training and run coaching making it social running with other like minded folks. I also work for Derby City Council at one of their leisure centres as a Fitness instructor. My ethos – Be your happy. Previously a senior clinical project manager for a CRO and a Supply chain project manager. Proven ability to understand the needs of stakeholders and be able to both influence and negotiate their needs to ensure a win-win outcome for the business.
Role: Guide
Kerry took up NW as he was recovering from Prostate Cancer in 2017 at the age of 67. Now, 7 years later, and clear, he accepted the challenge of being a Walk Leader! He’s comfortable doing 2-3 hour walks around Derbyshire, maybe straying into Staffordshire occasionally! He’s a keen caravanner and always finds walks from wherever he goes.
Role: WALX Guide
Tim joined WALX Derwent and Dales in 2023. Following a 28 year Army career and a second marketing and communications career in London Tim moved to Derbyshire from East Sussex in 2021. After a major operation in 2022 Tim was looking for an exercise regime to focus his lifelong commitment to overall fitness and well-being. Being new to the area he was also keen to get to know Derbyshire better. By chance he came across the Derwent and Dales WALX group, which seemed to promise the flexible fitness regime he was seeking. He has not been disappointed. What he particularly likes is the ability to dial the frequency and variety of activity from one week to the next and the diverse and interesting range of people he meets. Every walk and activity has led to learning something new be that a new area visited, knowledge shared or technique learned.
Role: WALX guide
Grew up in the ‘old smoke’, London Town and enjoyed a relatively carefree upbringing. Fairly active as a teenager/young adult with fencing, cycling and adventure training (Lake District, Pyrenees etc). Also, a keen interest in photography, which proved useful later on in the RAF. Employment involved a couple of minor forays into rail transport and telecoms. Then a full career (30 years) in the Royal Air Force as Nimrod aircrew and then Operations Officer. Finally, a few years winding down as a Quality Inspector at Perkins Engines in Stafford. Current interests include fencing, cycling (when the knee functions enough!) and getting out and about socialising with the Nordic Walx community. Endorphins play a big part… We (Chris + Marie) live in Roston, nr Ashbourne feeding the log burner or drinking coffee/wine in the garden. It is also fun visiting and keeping up with the exploits of our two grown up daughters as they create their own rich tapestries of life.
It’s now been seven years since I first discovered WALX Derwent and Dales, and what an incredible journey it has been.
Over the years, I've enjoyed so many wonderful experiences, from Total Body WALX fitness sessions and specialist walks to unforgettable trips across the UK and overseas. Every adventure has brought something new, whether that's improving my fitness, exploring beautiful places or simply sharing great company.
What makes WALX so special is the people. It's a genuinely welcoming community with a fantastic team of Walk Leaders and Instructors who are always supportive, encouraging and passionate about helping others enjoy the outdoors.
A very special mention has to go to Sam, whose enthusiasm, dedication and endless encouragement have helped create such a friendly, inclusive and inspiring community. Her commitment to making every walk, workout and adventure enjoyable for everyone is truly appreciated.
I'm so grateful to be a small part of this amazing group of people. If you've ever thought about joining, I'd encourage you to give it a go. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, explore new places, meet like-minded people or simply enjoy walking outdoors, there's almost certainly something in the WALX programme that's perfect for you.
Seven years on, I'm still loving every minute.I joined WALX Derwent and Dales in 2021. I’d always enjoyed walking, spent time in the gym and loved exercising outdoors, but I was looking for something different.
Joining WALX turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Today, I’m fitter than I’ve ever been. I regularly enjoy the fitness sessions, Explorer WALX, adventure trips and online fitness classes. The variety means there’s always something new to look forward to, and I’ve discovered that my “outdoor gym” is far more enjoyable than four walls and a treadmill.
Using Nordic walking poles has taken the pressure off my feet and knees, allowing me to walk further than I ever thought possible. Every week brings beautiful countryside, fresh air, laughter and wonderful company. Along the way, I’ve made lasting friendships and met so many inspiring people.
When I first joined, I lacked confidence in the hills. Today, I proudly call myself a true explorer.
Since joining WALX, I’ve achieved things I never imagined possible. I’ve explored the mountains of Snowdonia, walked the West Highland Way, enjoyed unforgettable adventures in the Lake District and Scotland and celebrated my 70th birthday on the summit of Suilven in the spectacular north-west Highlands of Scotland.
One of my most special achievements was completing my very first Munro with WALX. My dad had been a keen Munro bagger, so reaching that summit felt incredibly meaningful and connected me to his love of the Scottish mountains. Since then, I’ve gone on to climb several more Munros, each one bringing another sense of achievement and adventure.
None of this would have happened without Sam’s encouragement, expert planning and belief that everyone is capable of achieving more than they think. Every adventure is carefully organised, with walkers of all abilities supported throughout.
What started as a search for a different way to keep fit has completely changed my life. It has given me confidence, friendships, adventures and memories that will last a lifetime.
Today, I’m proud to be one of the Walk Leaders, helping others discover the same opportunities and confidence that WALX has given me.
I absolutely love it. Joining WALX Derwent and Dales is the best thing I’ve ever done.My journey with Nordic walking began 16 years ago. I started as one of the walkers and very quickly became a Walk Leader—a decision I will always be grateful for.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday morning I enjoy a 90-minute walk. With a five-week rota of different routes, every walk is varied, interesting and fun, allowing us to experience the changing seasons in beautiful parts of Derbyshire.
We walk in all weathers, and even the rainy days are enjoyable thanks to the wonderful company, conversation and laughter along the way. It's about so much more than walking. Sam also offers a variety of other activities, and on Fridays I enjoy the Smovey sessions. I also do ballet, which complements my walking perfectly.
Friends and family often ask why I stick to such a regular routine. The answer is simple. They wake up wondering what they'll do with their day. I wake up excited to discover where we'll be walking, knowing I'll enjoy fresh air, exercise, beautiful scenery and the company of great friends. It sets me up perfectly for the less exciting jobs waiting for me at home afterwards!
Alongside the weekly walks, we enjoy longer adventures at weekends. Saturday walks often finish with lunch at a welcoming pub, while Sunday adventures usually include a picnic in the countryside.
Over the years we've explored incredible places including Wells, Shropshire, the Cotswolds, Wales, Northumberland, Croatia, Italy and Spain.
My walking has developed far beyond anything I could ever have imagined. This year alone I've climbed Scafell Pike, Sheffield Pike, Glaramara and High Spy in the Lake District.
To celebrate my 70th birthday, I joined the WALX trip to walk the West Highland Way in Scotland. It was an unforgettable experience, with glorious weather, breathtaking scenery and wonderful company. We even stayed on afterwards to climb two Munros before heading home.
None of these experiences would have been possible without Sam's encouragement, careful planning, dedication and belief in every one of us. She has inspired me to achieve far more than I ever thought possible, and for that I will always be thankful.I took up Total Body walking last autumn on the advice of a hospital pain management consultant to help manage chronic pain from knee and foot problems, as well as the effects of a stroke.
It has made an enormous difference.
I bought a pair of WALX Xplorer three-piece travel poles in May and have since used them extensively while visiting friends in Germany and France. They packed neatly into a small checked suitcase, making them ideal for travelling. (Don't expect to take them into the aircraft cabin—Ryanair and easyJet wouldn't allow that!)
I now use the poles instead of a walking stick, and both Nordic walking and the poles themselves have been genuinely transformative. I still experience pain, but I can walk much further than before, and walking has once again become a real pleasure.
The only downside? When you get on a crowded bus or Underground with a walking stick, someone will usually offer you a seat. With Nordic walking poles... not so much! That always makes me smile.My friend and I had a fantastic day on the Map Reading, Navigation and Hill Skills course with Samantha Armstrong.
Sam's patience, clear instruction, and excellent teaching helped us understand how to relate what we could see on the ground to the OS map, as well as improve our understanding of bearings, distance, and navigation techniques.
The afternoon focused on moving safely and efficiently in the hills, giving us practical skills and greater confidence in mountain environments.
It was an enjoyable, informative and hands-on day, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone wanting to improve their navigation and hill skills.I started Total Body Walking a few years ago, and it's the best exercise I've ever done. I'm now the fittest I've ever been.
The instructors—Sam, Steve, Colin and, occasionally, Helen —are all brilliant, supportive and encouraging.
I've also made some wonderful friends along the way.
Using the poles for the Nordic Walking technique is kind to the joints and can be adapted to suit all abilities and fitness levels. There's a great variety of sessions too, from running and fitness classes to Smovey workouts and resistance pole sessions, so there's always something different to enjoy.
WALX Derwent and Dales also organises longer adventures to places like the Lake District and Scotland, and I can't wait to join one as soon as I retire!I've been a member of WALX Derwent and Dales for many years, and it's one of the best decisions I've made.
The monthly membership gives me the flexibility to join classes throughout the week if I want to. I regularly take part in the one-hour fitness sessions, 90-minute social walks and the additional weekend adventures.
There are activities to suit all abilities, so everyone can join in at a level that's right for them.
Since joining, I'm fitter, slimmer and happier, and I've met so many wonderful people along the way.
Give it a go – you won't regret it! 👍😍The Lake District walks were exceptionally well planned, with each day offering a different route and a new experience.
The guides were supportive throughout, and I always felt safe and well looked after in the mountains. Their knowledge and experience were evident at every stage, giving me complete confidence that, if anything unexpected had happened, we could have relied on their expertise.
It was a fantastic trip, and I wouldn't hesitate to join another adventure with WALX Derwent and Dales.I've enjoyed lots of fantastic trips and weekend walks with WALX Derwent and Dales, but this Outdoor Skills Weekend with Ken Hames and Sam Armstrong offered something a little different.
It was hugely enjoyable from start to finish. Ken's knowledge, meticulous preparation and enthusiasm for sharing his skills created a truly unique and memorable experience.
As always, everything was well organised, welcoming and great fun, and I came away having learned so much.
I'm already looking forward to many more outdoor adventures with WALX Derwent and Dales.We had an amazing weekend with Sam Armstrong and Ken Hames, learning expedition skills and completing a 14 km walk.
Everything had been thoughtfully planned and prepared, and we felt supported, encouraged and fully engaged throughout the weekend.
The range of activities—including navigation, basha building, fire lighting, open-fire cooking and teamwork—was designed to challenge us while giving us the confidence and support we needed to succeed. Learning through experience was at the heart of everything we did, and we certainly learned a huge amount.
Sam and Ken made a fantastic team. They were positive, knowledgeable and encouraging, working seamlessly together to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
It felt like a real achievement, and being part of such a friendly and supportive group made it even more special.
I will definitely be booking another adventure!I enjoyed a fabulous four-day trekking adventure in the southern part of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park with Sam from WALX Derwent and Dales and Ken Hames.
The trip was expertly led by Sam and Ken, with the more than capable David making sure no one was left behind.
Each day's trek was different, with its own unique character. We experienced steep, rocky ascents and descents, peaceful forest trails and breathtaking scenery throughout. One of the highlights was walking quieter routes away from the busy Yr Wyddfa paths, allowing us to enjoy the mountains with very few other people around.
I wouldn't hesitate to book another adventure with Sam and Ken and can't wait for the next one.One of the best things I've ever done was learn to Nordic walk with WALX Derwent and Dales.
Being out in the fresh air, surrounded by beautiful countryside, while doing something that keeps me both mentally and physically fit is simply fantastic.
I would highly recommend WALX Derwent and Dales to anyone looking to improve their health, wellbeing and fitness while enjoying the outdoors.After moving into the area, I was a little nervous about finding a club where I'd feel at home. From the very first day, I was made to feel incredibly welcome.
Sam and everyone at WALX Derwent and Dales were friendly, approachable and supportive, making it easy to settle in.
Joining the club has made my move so much easier, and I'm genuinely grateful for how quickly everyone made me feel like I belonged.
Whether you're completely new to Nordic walking or have years of experience, this is a club where you'll feel comfortable, connected and encouraged from the moment you arrive.
I'm so glad I joined!I have been walking with Sam for over thirteen years. Total Body Waking and Nordic walking have become an important part of my life.
I've learned that there really is no such thing as bad weather—only great walks! Every session is enjoyable, and the experience is made even better by the wonderful people you meet. There's always something new to learn through the conversations and friendships along the way.
I would recommend WALX Derwent and Dales to anyone who wants to stay fit and healthy, keep their joints moving and maintain their mobility.
Sam is always an inspiration. She is cheerful, motivating and genuinely committed to helping everyone achieve their very best.I have been walking with Sam for over thirteen years, and Nordic walking has become an important part of my life.
I've learned that there really is no such thing as bad weather—only great walks! Every session is enjoyable, and the experience is made even better by the wonderful people you meet. There's always something new to learn through the conversations and friendships along the way.
I would recommend WALX Derwent and Dales to anyone who wants to stay fit and healthy, keep their joints moving and maintain their mobility.
Sam is always an inspiration. She is cheerful, motivating and genuinely committed to helping everyone achieve their very best.Great walks, enjoyable sessions and a fantastic total body workout!
I've thoroughly enjoyed every activity I've taken part in, including Power of the Poles, Pep in Your Step, Smovey Workout, and many lovely Tuesday and Wednesday walks through the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
Sam is an excellent instructor who explains everything clearly and makes every session enjoyable and accessible.
It's a wonderful community with plenty of walking, talking, laughter and encouragement. I always leave feeling happier and healthier. 😀I highly recommend WALX Derwent and Dales. I've been walking with this lovely group for just over a year now and I'm absolutely loving it.
The people are fantastic, the countryside is beautiful, and every route is brilliantly planned and organised by Sam.
There are walks to suit different abilities and interests, so there's something for everyone.
What's not to love?Sam and WALX Derwent and Dales offer a fantastic exercise programme that improves your fitness without it ever feeling like you're exercising.
Using Total Body walking poles helps you get more from every step, while enjoying beautiful countryside in the company of like-minded people.
Sam is an excellent educator, always taking the time to explain the techniques and benefits, making every session both enjoyable and rewarding.
I would definitely recommend giving WALX Derwent and Dales a try.I have been walking with WALX Derwent and Dales for over twelve years and, during that time, have enjoyed walking in some wonderful places all over the UK.
It has been a fantastic way to keep fit, stay active and boost my mental wellbeing.
I'm now nearly eighty years old, and I have every intention of carrying on for many more years to come!Fantastic! If you're looking for a friendly, social group with amazing opportunities to exercise at the same time, WALX Derwent and Dales is the perfect choice.
There's a wealth of knowledge, encouragement and friendship, and everyone is made to feel welcome and included. Being outdoors in beautiful surroundings is an added bonus that makes every session enjoyable.
There are also online exercise classes, so you can stay active and connected even when you can't make it to a walk.
I couldn't recommend it more highly.WALX Derwent and Dales offers excellent Nordic Walking sessions for all abilities, along with a fantastic range of fitness activities throughout the week in some of the most beautiful countryside.
Everyone is welcoming, friendly and supportive, making it easy to feel part of the group from day one.
Nordic Walking provides a true whole-body workout, combining cardiovascular exercise with upper and lower body strength. I also find using the Nordic poles incredibly mindful and meditative – it's a wonderful way to relax my mind as well as improve my fitness.
And, of course, no longer walk would be complete without a visit to a café for coffee, cake and plenty of conversation! 😀I have been a member of WALX Derwent and Dales since it first started some 17 years ago, and it has been an incredible journey.
Our superb leader has organised brilliant weekly walks, as well as meticulously planning extended walking weekends across the UK and unforgettable walking holidays in some beautiful parts of Europe.
Every walk, whether close to home or further afield, has had a positive impact on the fitness and wellbeing of everyone who has taken part.
Most importantly, every adventure has been filled with plenty of laughter, friendship and wonderful memories.You couldn't be in better hands. There are so many activities to suit all abilities, whether you're just starting out or looking for a new challenge.
If you want well-managed, enjoyable and effective ways to get active, look no further.
One of the very best things about WALX Derwent and Dales is that you can arrive on your own at any activity and very quickly feel like you're among supportive friends. It's a welcoming community where everyone is encouraged, included and made to feel at home.It is now just over nine months since my knee replacement surgery, and although there is still much more progress to come, there has been a steady upward trend in my fitness, flexibility and strength.
Nordic Walking with the group was the first mainstream activity I was able to return to. Cycling was out because I didn't have enough knee flexion, and fencing was simply too dynamic, with too much risk of injury to the joint or surgical wound.
Of course, you can just walk on your own, but having the support of the group, the motivation to get out and about, along with the banter and a steady stream of life stories, is a great incentive to make the effort.
The wide variety of activities available through WALX Derwent and Dales, from gentle park strolls to full-day adventures in more challenging Peak District terrain (and everything in between!), is exceptional. There's also a fine tradition of sampling local refreshments at every opportunity!
A solid recommendation.
Update – 19/07/2026: Following major hand surgery, I have been able to continue joining the walks using just one pole, allowing me to maintain my wellbeing and stay active throughout my rehabilitation.I just wanted to say what a lovely walk last night was, I really enjoyed it and I love that even if you haven't been in a while you're so well looked after and everyone is super friendly! I will continue to try and attend as many as possible. Just a massive thanks to all. Feeling really positive this morning.
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