Funded through the Department for Transport, the courses are a great way to learn a new skill in a fun and friendly environment and are led by Nordic Walking UK qualified instructor Alison Gaster.

This spring, two courses will take place at Aylestone Park starting on Wednesday 15 April. The first session begins at 1pm, followed by a second session at 2.30pm. Each session lasts one hour.

A further free five-week course will take place later in the year, starting on Thursday 4 June at 2pm, also at Aylestone Park, which offers free parking and plenty of open space to explore.

Nordic walking is a full-body exercise that is easy on the joints and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Using specially designed poles, it engages the upper body to help propel you forward. Participants can use up to 90 per cent of their major muscles, compared to around 45% in regular walking, and can burn up to 46 per cent more energy.

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, Cllr Philip Price, said:

“We’re delighted to be able to offer these free Nordic walking courses to residents this spring. They’re a great way to try something new, get more active, and enjoy the outdoors in a friendly and supportive environment.

Walking is one of the simplest ways to improve both physical and mental wellbeing, and these sessions are designed to help people build confidence and make walking part of their everyday routine.

The popularity of previous courses shows there’s a real appetite for opportunities like this, so I’d encourage anyone who’s interested to sign up early and give it a go.”

Walking has a wide range of benefits for both physical and mental health, and the courses are designed to help people build more activity into their daily lives. They can also help give people the confidence to swap shorter car journeys for walking where possible.

To book a place, visit: www.herefordshire.gov.uk/nordicwalking

For further information, contact Alison Gaster on 07837 743087.

Course details:

• One-hour sessions

• Specialist poles provided

• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels

• Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear or trainers

More five-week courses will take place later in the summer.

Find out more about National Walking Month and the benefits of walking.