Find Your Flow: Why Nordic Walking Is Perfect for Menopause

Excuse the pun!

If you’re going through menopause and want to feel fitter, calmer, and more like yourself again — you’re not alone.

During our Noridc walking session today our conversation turned to menopause, all of us had a menopause story. I felt compelled to write this to let you know why you should join us.

So many women tell me they feel a “off balance” during this time, (I personally would go so far to say that the last couple of years, for me it has felt like a form of grief, not recognising myself and having my whole world turned upside down!) physically and emotionally. Hormones change, energy dips, and sometimes the usual workouts just don’t feel right anymore. (I certainly can't run anymore, and high impact hurts my joints for days after).

That’s where Nordic walking comes in. It’s gentle, energising, social, and seriously effective and it could be exactly what your body and mind need right now.

So, What Is Nordic Walking?

Nordic walking started in Finland as a summer training method for cross-country skiers. You use special poles to help you move forward engaging your arms, shoulders, core, and legs in one smooth rhythm.

It turns a simple walk into a full-body workout, without feeling like a workout. The poles take pressure off your joints, improve your posture, and make you feel light, steady, and strong.

And the best part? You can do it anywhere... in the park, by the sea, or round Sywell country park like we did today!

Why Nordic Walking Is Amazing During Menopause

1. Helps Manage Weight Naturally

As hormones shift, metabolism slows. Nordic walking works up to 90% of your muscles and can burn up to 40% more calories than normal walking — without you even noticing, because it’s such a joy to do!

2. Strengthens Bones and Muscles

The poles help you stay upright and strong, gently loading your bones and muscles to keep them healthy and resilient. It’s one of the most effective low-impact ways to protect against osteoporosis.

3. Kind to Joints, Great for Posture

If running or high-impact workouts hurt your knees or hips, you’ll love this. The poles reduce strain, support your balance, and help you walk taller literally and figuratively.

4. Boosts Heart Health

As estrogen levels drop, heart health becomes even more important. Nordic walking raises your heart rate safely, improving circulation and stamina while still feeling calm and controlled.

Feel-Good Benefits Beyond the Body

Less Stress, More Calm

The rhythm of walking with poles is almost meditative. Add some fresh air, birdsong, and good company, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for lowering stress and boosting your mood.

Better Sleep

Many women find they sleep more deeply after Nordic walking. Moving outdoors helps regulate your body clock and calm your nervous system, perfect if night sweats or restless nights are an issue.

Happier Hormones, Clearer Mind

Exercise helps balance insulin and cortisol (your stress hormones), and boosts those lovely feel-good chemicals that help with brain fog, irritability, and low motivation.

Walking Together Makes All the Difference

One of the most beautiful parts of Nordic walking is the community.You chat, laugh, and support each other while moving in nature, and before you know it, you’ve done a full-body workout that feels more like therapy than exercise.

Ready to Give It a Try?

Here’s how to get started:

1. Bring your curiosity — and comfy shoes!

2. I’ll provide the poles (and teach you the technique).

3. Come as you are, no fitness level required.

4. Leave feeling lighter, stronger, and more relaxed than when you arrived.

You’ll be amazed how quickly you feel the difference not just in your body, but in your whole outlook.

A Final Thought

I keep telling myself that menopause isn’t the end of something — it’s the start of a new, wiser, stronger chapter.

Nordic walking helps you embrace this stage with energy and balance.. It’s not about pushing yourself harder; it’s about moving in a way that feels good, heals, and empowers you.

So come and join me, come and find out why I shout 'squeeze lemons' and 'swing your arms'!! come and grab your poles, take a deep breath, and let’s walk through this together.

Kelly x