Lucille trained in 2022 as a Nordic walking instructor through funds from a Green Social Prescribing project. She runs regular Nordic walking classes in Blaise Castle Estate, Oldbury Court, and (during the summer months) Eastville Park.
What made you start Nordic walking?
Vicky said that Nordic walking tones your arms and shoulders. She let me feel her biceps and I was sold.
Have you noticed any health benefits from Nordic walking?
I’m noticeably fitter. I used to get breathless even going upstairs and although I do other types of exercise Nordic walking has made the biggest difference. It’s also good for my mental health. An instant tonic. Nordic walking takes ALL your attention and takes you out of your head and into your body. Running and yoga don’t do that for me, I can still get caught up in my thoughts, but Nordic walking is different. I feel grounded, it’s as though the poles connect me to the earth.
What have been some of the best things about teaching Nordic walking?
I teach classes jointly with Sunita and Henrietta. All of us just love Nordic walking so much and want other people to enjoy it too. I’m not super enthusiastic generally in life but I am about Nordic walking. My friends laugh at the change of personality that Nordic walking brings out in me.
I’ve seen so many beautiful connections because of Nordic walking. People meeting who probably wouldn’t meet in any other situation. Learning together, getting to know each other, and hanging out together afterwards. It’s bigger than the sum of its parts.
Do you have any more Nordic walking plans?
I am hoping to start a Nordic walking group in Southmead, maybe also offering indoor Nordic walking for people who are anxious about walking outside. I think it would help boost their confidence and make the transition to walking outside easier.
I’m also excited to share that Sunita and Henrietta and I have joined as non-executive director of Let’s Walk Bristol. The three of us trained together as Nordic walking instructors, and by taking on this role, we hope to support the growth of Nordic walking in and around Bristol—helping people lead healthier lives and strengthening our communities.
Lucille’s Nordic walking classes:
Tuesdays 1-2pm Blaise Castle Estate
Fridays 10-11am Oldbury Court Estate
Wednesdays 6-7pm Eastville Park (summer only)
Classes cost £3 and poles are provided. If you’ve not Nordic walked before you will need to do a beginner workshop. Contact lucille@letswalkbristol.org for more information.
