At WALX we create walking clubs with a unique twist.
Our WALX Masters are professional, qualified and passionate about making our WALX unforgettable!
So whether you want to walk for fitness, fun or simply to be in the great outdoors, join now and explore WALX that are welcoming, well organised and inspirational… wherever you may be.
Join one of our Drop-in WALX to find out more and take your first steps into a world of WALX.
Everyone is welcome to WALX and you don’t need to be a Member of your local WALX group to get started.
Your local WALX group runs ‘Drop-in’ WALX where the friendly WALX Instructors will welcome you and give you a feel for what WALX is all about in a safe and fun session that will last between 45 – 60 minutes.
Once you’ve taken that first step, you can discover the world of WALX and experience the full variety of WALX on offer right across the UK.
There is something for everyone at WALX with our selection of Explorer, Wellness, Total Body WALX and Nordic Walx delivered by people who care.
Have a closer look in ‘Types of WALX’ to learn more about our full variety of WALX.
Nordic Walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking – it makes something we can all do… twice as effective! Nordic Walking uses poles to in order to add two major benefits to walking.
- The use of poles means the upper body muscles are used as well as the legs
- The poles help to propel the walker along – this means he/she works harder than usual yet the support given by the poles makes it feel easier!
Nordic Walking is a specific fitness technique and is not to be confused with trekking, hill walking or trail running as the poles are not planted in front of the walker/runner but in a specific way that increases the use of the upper body. It can be done by anybody, anywhere and does not require expensive equipment or clothing.
Note: To participate in regular Nordic WALX, you must have completed our Nordic Freedom Course.
From one hour WALX in your local country park to a half day in the hills, our Explorer WALX capture the variety of scenery, themes and types of WALX that suit your lifestyle. From pub WALX to WALX with the dogs or even training WALX for challenges.
These WALX make every step count! Total Body walking ™ is a unique mix of drills, strength exercises, the use of nordic walking poles and other innovative kit. Delivered by our fully qualified Instructors who will plan WALX that work on all aspects of fitness and make the most of being Outdoors!
Gentle WALX that incorporate balance work, flexibility and strength exercises and maybe a bit of tai chi or relaxation too. Great for those who are getting back into exercise, have a health condition or simply want to move well and be fit for life!
Our wellbeing Instructors are qualified to deliver WALX for all levels so it’s never too late to take that first step.
We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy the great outdoors so we will be working hard to promote WALX that are suitable for wheels as well plenty of WALX on easy access trails. With our Partner venues we will also be able to help you locate easy access wheelchairs and buggies to hire.
Whether you have been referred by your GP, are part of a specific project or simply want to enjoy whole body pole walking in your local park with local leaders our community WALX will help you to get you active outdoors.
Using the amazing WALX Activator/Urban poles, you will be enjoying total body walking in no time and will be able to progress to join other WALX locally and right across the UK too!
What would I need to Wear?
All you really need is to dress appropriately for weather on the day and take a spare layer if you think you may need it. Ideally clothing should be comfortable and something that would dry quickly. No need to buy designated walking or fitness wear initially but do avoid tight clothing/jeans.
Footwear needs to comfortable - flexible soled trainers or walking boots are ideal (especially if they are waterproof) but avoid solid heavy walking boots if possible.
A small backpack or waistbag is a good idea and you should always bring a bottle of water even on chilly days. In hot weather don’t forget to pop on some sunscreen and a hat or visor is always a good idea.
Will I need to buy any equipment?
All Instructors provide poles or other kit for any drop in and beginner sessions that may require them. Once you have experienced some of our sessions you may feel you would prefer to have your own poles or other kit and that’s fine too. In fact, you will be able to access far more sessions if you do not have to rely on the Instructors to provide it.
You will be given plenty of advice as to what is right for you and access to discounts in our store too.
WALXhampstead is the new name of Exercise with Friends.
Specialising in Nordic WALX for posture, fitness and strength, WALXhampstead is a boutique fitness walking club offering a range of WALX classes for all abilities on Hampstead Heath and at Ally Pally.