sorry, should have said - the last comment was from Helen. Garfield is better at staying upright on a slope than me, so doesn't use poles (not even to frighten off nosy cattle) ;-)
[Helen]

I can't comment on Nordic Walking as such, but like quit a lot of people I often use two ordinary walking poles, especially on very steep or uneven ground. As far as I know I've never tripped anyone up, but there is definitely an art to getting over a stile without nearly poking the person behind you in the eye! It's a good way of getting a bit more 'personal space' though....... ;-) A more serious benefit to carrying walking poles is that they are really good for waving at over-curious cattle & persuading them to back off a bit.

Thanks David for your reply and advice. I take it from the lack of response from any other member, that Nordic Walking is not used all that much by LDWA members. Or perhaps members are not reading and getting involved with this forum.

I took lessons and bought a CD few years ago, It is a useful technique, but mainly as a training aid, though I have used what I learnt on long flat stretches using two ordinary poles. I would advise any one thinking of trying it out to go for lessons first as the Nordic walking poles are fairly expensive and there is a definite knack to using them The instructor I had did not recommend, the poles for multi day use or long day treks.

Do any members use the Nordic Walking technique on events? I cannot say I have seen anyone - but perhaps I have just not noticed. What concerns me is the poles dragging behind with so many feet around. It would be awful to trip someone up! Has anyone got any hints or tips. I have only tried Nordic Walking for the first time today - and thought I would use the Forum to get other people's ideas and views on people Nordic Walking on Challenge Events. Katie