Fun Things to Do

A popular fitness technique first developed in Finland in the 1950s to help cross country skiers maintain their fitness. Suitable for people of all abilities.

Recommended by fitness experts and health professionals Nordic walking is simple, highly effective and affordable.  By using the specially designed poles, people can use all the major muscles in the body to burn up to twice as many calories as ordinary walking, even though the poles make it feel easier by propelling the walker along!

The poles also reduce the pressure on the knees and joints and the gentle upper body movement is great for easing back and neck pain too. It’s so effective that it is being used for weight loss, rehabilitation and sports specific training all the over the UK and those that have tried it all agree that being outdoors was energising and that they felt fantastic afterwards!

Walking in the Forest

Qualified Nordic walking instructor Fiona Swann offers sessions at Haldon Forest Park, where people can come along to learn the technique. After an initial session, people can sign up to regular walks with Fiona’s groups. She says: “Nordic walking is such good fun and is an excellent way to improve health and fitness.

“I am offering initial induction sessions where people can come along and have a go – it is suitable for all but you do need to learn the technique. If people enjoy it they can then join one of my regular weekly groups, which at Haldon will be on Saturdays and Wednesdays. It is a great social activity and by coming to regular sessions people can develop their technique, strength and fitness. At Haldon, there is the added bonus of a beautiful setting to walk in."

People can also find out more on the Nordic Walking UK website www.nordicwalking.co.uk

Further information about Fiona’s sessions are also available on the Forestry Commission website www.forestry.gov.uk/haldonforestpark

More useful Nordic Walking links >