Our new free Nordic walking diabetes wellbeing programme for people with Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes starts this April in Netham Park. It will be run by Subitha and Samira (pictured above).
Studies have shown that Nordic walking is a great option if you have diabetes. Nordic walking uses way more calories than ordinary walking. Research suggests it’s between 20% and 46%. The clever thing is that although you’re burning more calories it actually feels easier because your effort is spread between your upper and lower body. Nordic walking also raises your heart rate without you feeling too puffed which makes getting fit so much easier.
Another positive benefit is that Nordic walking can help reduce your blood sugar levels. Plus the active heel/toe roll and arm swing of Nordic walking boosts your circulation and improves the blood supply to your legs and feet, helping prevent cramps and nurturing your foot health.
All in all, Nordic walking is ‘exercising easy’ and great way to get moving. It’s suitable for all fitness levels. It’s outdoors, so you can exercise in nature and lots of fresh air. At the same time, you are topping up your vitamin D naturally which helps your health in many ways. And – saving the best til last – it’s sociable too, so you can chat whilst exercising and STILL get all the benefits.
Our courses are free and we are prioritising people from Bristol’s African, Caribbean, Chinese, and South Asian communities who live in Central/East Bristol. Our course timetable is below. If you are interested in joining please email us at info@letswalkbristol.org. Ideally we would like you to have a referral from your GP or other health professional.
| Location & instructors | Course Title | Day/Time | Course dates 2023 | Priority given to |
| Netham Park Samira & Subitha | Nordic walking diabetes wellbeing | Thursdays 9:30-10:30am Nordic walking plus social after | Course 1: 20 April – 25 May Course 2: 8 June – 13 July | People who are visibly minority ethnic with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes and who live in Central/East Bristol |
The Let’s Walk Bristol Team
