For the past five years the PURBECK CHALLENGES have formed part of our unique Festival

Originally only for Nordic Walkers both have now been opened up to walkers with and without poles and also speedhykers too ( there is also a running event the next day so tell your Friends!) This year we will also have a VIRTUAL event for those who can not join us in person.

Choose from 16 or 27 miles – both start in SWANAGE Dorset and follow the South West Coast Path for the first section before heading through stunning chalk hills, through magical Corfe castle and back to a friendly welcome on the sunny Swanage Sea front.

Rugged cliff top terrain and some of the most scenic paths in Dorset make both routes a tough but memorable challenge with support all the way.

You can simply sign up and see us there on the day our join our training group and be inspired by training plan, support and tips from those who know the route!

Info about how to sign up for the Virtual event will follow soon but don’t let that stop you from starting your training!

Meet the Challenge Support Team

National Coach Matt Gibbs (who won the first ever 27 mile event) will head up a team of local Instructors/Leaders who will provide local support and inspiration which include:-

• Training plans to follow week by week
• Challenge group where you can track and share your progress
• Monthly zoom catch up session with tips and advice
• Local training walks (subject to COVID rules and availability)

Route Master Rob is responsible for all of the walks at the Purbeck festival and he will be working with the WALX Dorset local challenge coach Lauren to organise training walks on sections of the challenge routes to inspire you and also prepare you for the terrain and stunning views!

Your local group may also have a Challenge Coach who will link with the central team in order to inspire you get those training miles in either virtually or as a group.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

If your are part of a local NWUK/WALX group your Instructor may set up a Challenge Coach so you can train locally together and follow the training plans. Email our HQ (info@nordicwalking.co.uk) if you can not find your local group or search HERE

If you can’t find a group or they are not able to provide support walks etc, worry not as Matt and the team will provide the plans and virtual support as much as they can.