EXERCISE fans have their poles at the ready for a new style of walking class being rolled out.

Northallerton is embracing Nordic walking – which uses poles to help propel the walker along.

The free taster sessions give walkers an insight into its health and wellbeing benefits, as the use of poles gives a workout to the upper and lower body.

David Earl, Hambleton District Council’s development officer for health and wellbeing, said: “Nordic walking is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It has fantastic, all round health benefits, and can be done almost anywhere.”

He said the sport can burn more calories than regular walking, improve posture and alleviate neck and shoulder pain.

It provides the cardiovascular training intensity of jogging without the high impact.

The hour-long taster sessions, which run every Thursday until November 9, are led by a qualified and experienced instructor.

Walkers meet at Hambleton Leisure Centre at 10am. Poles will be provided.

For further details contact David Earl on 01609 767202 or david.earl@hambleton.gov.uk