Poles4PD

Nordic walking for people with Parkinson's in Sydney

A friendly, volunteer-led walking group for people living with Parkinson's, and their friends and carers. Free to join, free to attend.

Join a walk

Why Nordic walking

The benefits are real

Research suggests Nordic walking can offer real advantages for people living with Parkinson's, and our members feel it every week.

A smiling woman in a pink jacket walking outdoors with a companion

Benefit 1 of 4

Better balance & stability

Nordic walking uses your arms as well as your legs, which supports postural stability, a key challenge for people living with Parkinson's.

The poles give you extra points of contact with the ground, which many people find gives them confidence with every step. Better balance may also help reduce the risk of falls.

Two people's hands gripping Nordic walking poles

Benefit 2 of 4

Improved posture & coordination

The rhythmic, cross-body movement of Nordic walking gets both sides of the body working together, supporting coordination, which Parkinson's can affect.

Walking tall with poles encourages an upright posture that lets you look up, look around, and truly take in your surroundings: the trees, the sky, the people beside you. Better posture also supports more fluid, coordinated movement, making every walk feel a little easier than the last.

A woman smiling and looking up into the sky

Benefit 3 of 4

Lifted mood & wellbeing

Regular outdoor exercise is linked with lower anxiety and a better mood, and both anxiety and depression are common with Parkinson's.

Fresh air, green surroundings, and gentle movement combine to lift your spirits.

Two older women laughing together in a park

Benefit 4 of 4

Real social connection

Social isolation is one of the most significant challenges for people living with Parkinson's. Our group provides a warm, welcoming community.

You'll walk alongside people who understand what you're going through, and carers who are right there with you. No pressure, no judgment, just good company.

How it works

Getting started is simple

No fees. No experience needed. Just get in touch and come along.

  1. Show up to your local park

    Find your nearest Poles4PD session in Sydney. Bring a pair of Nordic poles, comfortable shoes and some water. That's all you need.

  2. Walk with the group

    Our friendly group leaders will welcome you, teach you the basics and walk along with the group to make sure it all runs smoothly.

  3. Feel the difference

    Many people notice the difference in how they feel after a session, in balance, posture, mood and energy, and you'll make new friends along the way.

A community that gets it

"Coming to Poles4PD has been great. I walk better, I feel better, and I sleep better that night! And I love the coffee stop - chatting with new friends who understand really helps."

Poles4PD member, Sydney

Poles4PD is entirely volunteer-led. There's no cost, no membership fee, and no obligation. We're just a group of people who believe that Nordic walking, being outdoors in nature and socialising with friends makes life better for everyone living with Parkinson's.

Join Poles4PD

Ready to take your first step?

You don't need to be fit. You don't need experience. You just need to show up with a smile.

When
Weekly, every week of the year
Where
Sydney parks, NSW. Get in touch to find your nearest session.
Cost
Completely free
What to bring
Nordic poles, comfortable shoes, water and a smile

Please check with your GP, neurologist or physiotherapist that group walking is right for you.

Get in touch