Community Public Health Version

Community Nordic Walking Program

Last Updated: December 2025

This page explains how county public health teams, community health workers (CHWs), senior centers, and local organizations can use Nordic Walking to improve mobility, prevent falls, and help people of all ages become more active. The program is simple, safe, low-cost, and easy to run in any community.

What Is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking is regular walking with special poles. The poles help people stand taller, walk steadier, and use more muscles without extra strain. It feels natural and is easy to learn.

  • Safe for all ages
  • Good for balance and posture
  • Helps people walk longer with less pain
  • Works indoors or outdoors
  • Great for people who don’t exercise much

Who This Program Helps

  • Seniors
  • People with arthritis or joint pain
  • Adults with chronic conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure)
  • People recovering from illness or long inactivity
  • Low-income and underserved communities
  • People who need safe, easy movement options

What County Health Workers Can Do

You can run Nordic Walking sessions in:

  • parks
  • community centers
  • school tracks
  • senior centers
  • walking paths
  • church or YMCA grounds

No special building or gym is needed.

Why Counties Use This Program

  • Very low cost
  • Easy to teach
  • Helps reduce falls in seniors
  • Makes people more active quickly
  • Improves mobility and confidence
  • Creates social connection and community groups
  • Works for large and small counties

How the Program Works

Step 1 — Basic Screening

Simple questions about mobility, pain, or balance.

Step 2 — Intro Session

  • How to stand tall
  • How to use the poles
  • How to walk safely

Step 3 — Weekly Group Walks

30–45 minutes, at an easy pace, with short breaks if needed.

Step 4 — Long-Term Follow-Up

People keep meeting weekly or form their own walking groups. Sessions can continue year-round.

What You Need

  • Nordic Walking poles (adjustable)
  • Indoor/outdoor rubber tips
  • A safe walking route
  • 1–2 staff or CHWs trained by NWANA

Counties may also share poles between groups or store them at centers.

Training for County Staff

NWANA trains county workers and CHWs to lead sessions safely:

  • Simple technique training
  • How to help seniors and beginners
  • How to run group sessions
  • How to watch for safety issues

Community Benefits

  • Better mobility
  • More activity and fresh air
  • Fewer falls
  • Less joint pain
  • Improved confidence and independence
  • Stronger community ties

Start a Program

County public health departments, senior agencies, and community centers can start a Nordic Walking program with NWANA.

Email: info@nwaofna.com
Website: https://nwaofna.com