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What is the best way to learn Nordic walking or fitness walking?

6 min read

What Is the Best Way to Learn Nordic Walking or Fitness Walking?

Understanding the options, techniques, and best practices for walking with poles

Why Learn to Walk with Poles?

Walking with poles – often referred to as Nordic Walking or fitness walking – has gained popularity for good reason. It transforms a simple walk into a full-body workout, improves posture, enhances calorie burn, and provides stability and confidence for those with balance or mobility concerns.

But before you rush out and buy poles or hit play on a YouTube tutorial, it’s worth understanding why you’re drawn to pole walking in the first place. Are you looking for:

  • A faster, more intense way to walk for fitness?

  • Support for balance, posture, or joint issues?

  • A way to regain confidence post-injury or surgery?

  • A structured and safe method to become more active?

Your motivation will help determine which type of walking poles are best for you and which learning method will lead to long-term success.

What’s the Difference Between Nordic Walking and Total Body Walking?

One of the most confusing aspects for newcomers is terminology. The phrase “Nordic Walking” is often applied broadly to any walking with poles – but in reality, it’s a specific technique that originated from cross-country ski training.

Traditional Nordic Walking:

  • Uses strap-in poles, which means your hand is physically attached to the pole handle.

  • Requires a set technique, stride length, and body movement.

  • Is sport-based and may not suit individuals with mobility limitations or joint issues.

  • Tends to be taught in a more technical or regimented way, focusing on performance.

Total Body Walking™:

  • Uses strapless ergonomic poles (like WALX Poles), allowing whole-hand engagement without restricting movement.

  • Is adaptable to the walker’s needs, from rehab to high-intensity training.

  • Focuses on natural biomechanics, functional fitness, and posture.

  • Is more inclusive and suitable for all fitness levels – especially beginners, older adults, and those with medical conditions.

In short, Total Body Walking takes the principles of pole walking and adjusts them for your goals, body, and health, rather than fitting you into a rigid framework.

Can You Learn Nordic Walking from YouTube?

While YouTube is a great resource for inspiration and general knowledge, it’s not always the best place to learn how to walk with poles safely and effectively.

The problems with YouTube tutorials:

  • Many are made by enthusiasts, not certified instructors.

  • The movements often reflect sport-specific techniques suited to already-fit individuals.

  • They rarely take into account common issues like poor balance, joint pain, low fitness levels, or rehabilitation needs.

  • They often use strap-in poles, which require a precise technique that can take time (and multiple corrections) to master.

If you do decide to explore online videos, make sure they come from a qualified professional who has experience working with a wide range of participants, not just athletes. Ideally, the video should be part of a structured learning system that includes:

  • Progressive teaching

  • Practice guidance

  • Feedback loops

  • Advice on choosing the right poles

What’s the Best Way to Learn Pole Walking in the UK?

The best way to learn is with a qualified, insured, and experienced Instructor who can tailor the session to your goals and physical ability. The easiest way to find one is via:

➡️ www.walx.co.uk/find-walx

➡️ www.nordicwalking.co.uk

Both platforms offer a search tool to find local sessions and instructors. Each Instructor’s profile will clarify:

  • Their qualifications

  • The type of poles and techniques they teach

  • Whether they support fitness walking, rehab, or both

  • What you can expect in the sessions (distance, pace, terrain, etc.)

WALX instructors – particularly WALX Masters – are trained to deliver Total Body Walking sessions designed for wellness, strength, and stability. They are based in locations across the UK, including:

  • London

  • Leamington Spa

  • The Peak District

  • Derby

  • Dorset

  • Bournemouth

  • South Downs

  • Chichester

  • Manchester

  • Preston

  • Bristol

  • Salisbury

  • Wellingborough

  • Chester

  • Oban

  • Dingwall

  • Esher

  • Swindon

  • Norwich

This means whether you live in a city or countryside, there’s likely an instructor nearby – or at least an event you can travel to occasionally.

What Happens in a Typical “Power of Poles” Session?

The recommended starting point is a Power of Poles session – a 60–90-minute introduction that gives you the tools to start walking with confidence.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Assessment and personalisation – the session will be matched to your fitness level and goals.

  • You’ll be given strapless Total Body Walking poles to start with – these are easier to use and encourage natural movement.

You’ll learn:

    • Proper posture and walking technique

    • How to engage the upper body effectively

    • How to build rhythm and stride length

If you want to try traditional Nordic walking poles (with straps), your instructor can demonstrate how the technique changes and offer progression options.

If you plan to continue with the traditional method, a follow-up session is usually required to safely build up to the full technique.

What If There’s No Instructor Near Me?

No problem. WALX HQ provides a structured online learning experience designed to replicate in-person teaching as closely as possible.

Rather than simply offering generic videos, the online learning includes:

  • Progressive videos and audio files

  • Clear practice drills for home or outdoor use

  • Guided development of technique over time

  • Advice on pole selection

  • Optional support via email or phone from the WALX team

This method is ideal for:

  • Remote areas with no local instructor

  • Individuals needing to learn at their own pace

  • People who want to build confidence before joining a group

  • Health professionals or carers supporting someone in rehab

It’s far more effective than trying to piece together random YouTube videos, especially if you’re dealing with health issues or just getting started on your fitness journey.

The Bottom Line: How to Learn the Right Way

The best way to learn Nordic Walking or fitness walking depends entirely on your needs and goals. If you’re relatively fit and looking for a sport-style challenge, traditional Nordic walking with a qualified coach might suit you. But for most people – especially those looking to improve health, mobility, or overall wellness – Total Body Walking with WALX is the most accessible and effective route.

Whether in-person or online, here’s what to look for in a learning experience:

✅ Qualified Instructor with insurance

✅ Personalised, beginner-friendly teaching

✅ Use of ergonomic, strapless poles for ease and comfort

✅ Progressive learning, not one-size-fits-all instruction

✅ Focus on wellness, posture, and functional movement

Ready to Start?

🟢 Visit www.walx.co.uk/find-walx

Find a local instructor or explore online learning options today.

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