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Nordic walking after breast cancer

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There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that physical activity can play a vital role in recovery after cancer as well as managing side effects and the consequences of cancer treatment such as fatigue [1][2][3].

Exercise has a crucial role to play in both physical and mental wellbeing[1][2][3] and, after treatment, has been found to help:

Nordic walking is considered a safe activity, is suitable for people of all ages and levels of fitness and is a recommended form of exercise by leading UK cancer organisations[1][2][3].

Research suggests that walking with poles may help improve shoulder function for women who have had breast cancer and is considered a safe form of rehabilitation for women with breast cancer-related lymphoedema in the arm and may improve arm strength[3][4][5].

One of the key features of Nordic walking is that you plant the poles behind you, which keeps your posture upright and your chest open and helps with breathing. The poles provide support and therefore Nordic walking is suitable for a range of fitness abilities.

My one-to-one sessions focus on improving your physical and mental wellbeing. Each session is designed around your specific needs, gently building your fitness whilst walking through the beautiful countryside and parks around Bristol.

Please chat through whether Nordic walking is right for you with your doctor or physiotherapist and then give me a call to discuss your individual needs.

Please contact me to discuss how Nordic Fitness can help you.


  1. NHS/Macmillan, 2021
  2. Maggie's, 2021
  3. Penny Brohn UK, 2021
  4. Di Blaiso et al. - Physical exercises for breast cancer survivors: effects of 10 weeks of training on upper limb circumferences, Journal of Physical Therapy Science 2016
  5. C Gonzalez Castro - Nordic Walking as a physical exercise to be prescribed in patients with lymphoedema secondary to breast cancer, Apunts.org 2013

Nordic walking and the menopause Nordic walking for those with Parkinson's disease Nordic walking following heart attack or stroke Find out more about my sessions