Equipment

Poles

Specific, unique poles are required for Nordic walking. These are not simply adapted trekking poles, but poles that are tailor-made for this particular activity. A number of models made by different manufacturers are available on the global market: these vary in quality, price and style.

In the experience of Nordic Walking for Health, key features to consider when researching poles include: the carbon fibre content of, and process of manufacture into, the shaft (strength, low weight, stiffness & flexibility); ergonomic design (glove-strap & handle); technical specification (rubber paw & metal tip); nature of product guarantee or warranty; and, value for money.

British Nordic Walking, the internationally affiliated Nordic walking organisation, and the International Nordic Walking Federation currently endorse the Exel Nordic Walker range of poles, some of which are sold with a lifetime guarantee on the shaft.

The appropriate length of pole for you depends on your height.

Exel Nordic Walker Trainer poles are provided at no extra cost by Nordic Walking for Health for all health and fitness programmes.

It is advisable to arrive at the appointed meeting place up to 10 minutes before the publicised start time for group sessions to allow for individual fitting and adjustment of glove-straps.

Pole Hire & Purchase

Many clients doing full courses are telling us how much they appreciate being able to practise in between course sessions. Exel Nordic Walker Trainer poles are available for hire.

Nordic Walking for Health does not currently have a policy of officially endorsing particular Nordic walking products over and above others. At present, only Exel and Leki Nordic walking poles are available for purchase, including adjustable ones that particularly suit the regular train and aeroplane traveller. As its number of clients grows and demand for poles develops further, Nordic Walking for Health will explore stocking different makes in response to demand.

To hire poles, a returnable £50 deposit per pair is required. The hire charge is then £5 per pair per week to be paid in advance. Please contact Nordic Walking for Health for the price of poles, if you are interested in purchasing.

Footwear

Nordic Walking for Health recommends that you wear comfortable walking or training shoes for its Health & Fitness Programme.

Dedicated Nordic Walking shoes are available for purchase in the UK, e.g. the asics range - go to Running Bare

Clothing

Nordic Walking for Health recommends lightweight clothing appropriate for the weather conditions on the day, including light gloves and a waterproof jacket for cold and wet weather and suncream/sunglasses in summer. It is better to wear several light layers of clothing rather than heavier, thicker clothing.

Dedicated Nordic Walking clothing is available for purchase in the UK - for example, go to euroski