Saffron Walden Nordic Walking FAQ
Walking through some of the most beautiful countryside in the U.K.
Click on the Instagram icon to see pictures from our latest walks.
Q. How can I get started?
A. Nordic walking courses cost £45 and includes equipment hire, two 1.5 hour training courses, and 2 months membership with Saffron Walden Nordic walking.
Please complete the Medical Questionnaire and return to your instructor before your course starts. A paper copy can be sent out to you if you prefer. All courses should be pre paid or payment on the first day. Following your course your instructor will direct you to a Nordic walk best suited to your ability. You can book Saffron Walden Nordic walks for 2 months following your course FREE of charge. Nordic walking poles are also included during this time. If you decide to join Saffron Walden Nordic walking, additional payment for walks will start after 2 months You will also need to buy Nordic walking poles, your Instructor can supply these for you.
Q. Do you need any medical information from me?
A. Yes for Insurance purposes and your safety you will need to download and fill in a basic Medical Health Form. Please return the form via email. A paper copy of the Medical Health Form is available on request. Your Instructor will be in contact before the start of the course so don’t worry if you have answered yes to any of the questions. In most cases it won’t prevent you from Nordic walking. However some medical conditions will need you to check with your Doctor before signing up for a Nordic walking course. An example would be recovering from Cancer or Heart Attack. You can download the form HERE
Q. What are the costs involved in Nordic walking with Saffron Walden Nordic walking?
A. Saffron Walden Nordic walking offers more than 10 Nordic walks a
week for a cost of £18 per calendar month. You can cancel at anytime and then re-join again when you are ready.
Alternatively you can book and pay for individual Saffron Walden Nordic Walks for £6 per walk.Please contact Paul Goddard for bank details
Q. My fitness is not very good, will I feel out of place?
A. Definitely not - everybody is welcome. There are Nordic walks for all
abilities. Nordic walking is the same as cross country skiing so don’t
underestimate the sport, it’s more than just walking with sticks. If you
are comfortable walking 2 or 3 miles then you are fit enough to start.
From your first day you will feel included and part of a great local
business. Friendship support and fun is guaranteed.
Q. Will I be able to come out on a scheduled Nordic walk?
A. Yes, you can attend Saffron Walden Nordic walks after you have
completed the training course and registered with Reservio the online
booking system. For experienced Nordic walkers only registration is
required before booking a Saffron Walden Nordic walk.
Q. What clothes and equipment will I need?
A. To get started you need a comfortable pair of trainers or shoes with a flexible sole. Walking boots are ok if they are flexible.
Stretchy trousers are good alongside any other comfortable fabric.
Jeans are not recommended as they can be hot and sticky to wear during the summer and very clingy if wet.
Jackets are better than coats as coats can flap in the wind and get in the way of the pole swing.
Gloves are also useful, however not bulky winter gloves as the straps won’t fit.
All equipment is provided for your initial training so you don't have to
invest in equipment straight away.
Q. What is the cost of equipment needed?
A. Equipment needed is relatively basic. You will need a pair of Nordic
walking poles and depending on the quality they range between £50 and £135 per pair. The poles come with the specially adapted gloves and paws for road walking. Trekking trainers are usually best, although any comfortable walking shoes are fine. Cost depends on personal choice, although there are many discount stores online offering great reductions.
Several layers are always a good option when Nordic walking as they are usually easy to remove and store away in a small backpack if you become hot. Backpacks and body belts are best for Nordic walking.
Please remember you only need a few essentials when on a Nordic walk.
Q. Where can I buy Nordic walking poles, spare straps and paws?
A. Saffron Walden Nordic Walking sells Nordic walking poles and spare gloves and paws. Just ask any Instructor or walk leader and they will help you. 
An ideal exercise for everyone of all ages in Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire
