My name is Kathy Townsend and I saw an article in The Redditch Standard one day about a woman who has improved her health and wellbeing by taking up the relatively new sport of Nordic walking.
I am writing to you as I feel that more people need to understand what this amazing activity can do for you.

I am writing as I would really like you to feature my story, to inspire people to become more active.
I joined Mercian Nordic Walking in Bromsgrove 2 months ago.  (Please see my before photo attached.)

I have lost 7lb in weight and 10inches in total of body mass since I joined the group.
(Please see my “now” picture) 
I joined the group as it promised to be “all inclusive” and all I needed to be was fit to walk. I’d taken on a gym membership that I’d lost confidence to go to due to the embarrassment of my size. I love the fact I exercise in walking boots and trousers not Lycra

I have walked and exercised twice a week with the instructor Ian and have taken advantage of the numerous walks all over our beautiful countryside.
I have never found an exercise activity that I have really enjoyed, but this I’m loving. I have completed my “learn to Nordic walk”and my “fit  for life course” and regularly take part in muscle strength and endurance classes too. The walks range from easy to very hard so you can choose your own level once you have completed the above courses
Nordic walking might look a bit strange but the poles offer upper body resistance thereby working 90% of your muscles.  It has, quite simply, changed my life.

I feel fitter, healthier and have more energy, all achieved by going for a purposeful walk.
I hope that I can be an inspiration to others.

I made the conscious decision to start getting fit, in the summer to enable me to carry on outdoor exercising in the winter as I suffer with seasonal affective disorder, the winter depression.I also work night shifts as a nurse and then I became aware of “green prescription advice” for this very reason. I am proof that it works!

Kathy Townsend