We have just touched down from a full on 4 days a the annual INWA (International Nordic Walking Federation) convention in Bavaria. Six of us went from the UK, myself (Karen), Catherine and Joy as British Nordic Walking Coaches; joined by Nordic Walking Instructors – Paulina from Ireland, Elizabeth from Up North and Elin from London. The trip was amazing, it didn’t stop snowing the whole time we were there and our chalet was nestled in a valley surrounded by snow capped mountains.
The convention was hosted by the German Nordic Fitness Association who were fantastic hosts. We enjoyed a Bavarian evening of beer, sausage and song; a biathlon competition consisting of nordic walking/running and shooting, and much camaraderie between the many countries represented there… Japan, Netherlands, Ireland, Finland, New Zealand, Italy, France, South Africa, Germany.. to name a few.
There was of course time for some serious Nordic business… lectures from leading experts on Nordic Brain Training, Medical Nordic Walking theory, Biomechanical and metabolic issues, & Gait analysis as well as the latest research findings. Combined with some great outdoor sessions on deep stretching techniques, Postural exercises to improve walking, and a fab new concept in the Nordic Gymstick. We wil be sharing more news on all of this via our British Nordic Walking site… so keep an eye on www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk. And if you’re coming to class this week watch out for the deep stretches!! and brain training exercises!!!!!
Check out the photos and watch out for more nordic walking news from the weekend. (By the way Joy’s team won the Biathlon event, and I got all 5 of my shots!!!!)
Team UK & Ireland on form !!!???
Catherine presents to the convention
It snowed!
Karen shooting in the Biathlon
How many layers of clothing did we have on?
Hi Claire
Thanks for your question. The USA are a member of INWA but unfortunately couldn’t make it to the convention. Many countries come alternate years to the convention as travel is often costly. It always amazes me that people travel from all corners of the globe to get there. I think there were 14 countries in all this year.
Best wishes, Karen