A big thank you to everyone who took part in our recent survey — it was fantastic to gather your views. Your feedback gave us valuable insight into what you’d like to see more of, how you might like to get involved, and — perhaps most heartening of all — the many ways Nordic walking is making a positive difference in your lives.
At the very top of the benefits list, with a brilliant 86%, was something we as instructors feel too: Nordic walking lifts your mood and helps you feel happier. At a time when stress and anxiety are all too common, this is a result that really matters. Nordic walking is fun, it’s outdoors, and it just makes you feel good.
Close behind, 82% of you said Nordic walking has helped strengthen your muscles, especially in your arms, legs and core. Since it’s a full-body activity designed to build strength gradually, it’s great to know that’s coming through in your experience.
And in third place, 77% of you said you now feel a greater sense of community — something we were especially pleased to see. Building connection, boosting motivation, and creating a real sense of belonging are at the heart of what we do. Alongside physical and mental wellbeing, community is one of our top club priorities — so it’s wonderful to hear that message reflected back from you.
We also left room in the survey for your comments — and you shared some really thoughtful, uplifting reflections. Here are just a few we loved:
“Definitely helps with my mental and physical health yet physically when walking, it doesn’t feel that I’m over working myself — feels good!”
“Really helped me to be fit before and after major surgery. The people met through walking are lovely and have become friends I look forward to meeting up with. The diversity of backgrounds adds to the enjoyment, I’d never meet people from all these backgrounds otherwise.”
“The Wednesday evening walks force me to finish work at a reasonable time and get me away from a computer screen. It’s something I look forward to and gets me through the week.”
What You’d Like More Of
100% of you said you were interested in more scenic walks in and around Bristol — music to our ears! As a result, we’ll be continuing our monthly scenic walks, organised by the wonderful Lucille. The next one is Stoke Park on Saturday 31st May, and we’re putting together a scenic walk schedule so you can plan ahead and join the ones that work for you.
Getting More Involved
We’ve always imagined our club as a supportive, inclusive Nordic walking community, and it was so encouraging to see how many of you are interested in becoming more actively involved. Whether it’s helping with scenic events, shaping our scenic walk schedule, becoming a walk leader or mentor, joining an advisory group to guide the future of the club, or offering your skills and expertise — thank you. Your involvement helps keep our community strong, welcoming, and full of energy.
Thanks again to everyone who took the time to share their views. Your feedback helps shape what we do — and reminds us why we do it. Here’s to walking further, feeling better, and doing it all together.
