1. Teaching Responsibilities

1.1. Delivering Basic Technique Instruction

The instructor must teach:

  • natural gait fundamentals

  • basic pole handling

  • proper pole positioning

  • coordinated arm–leg movement

  • the first elements of the push phase

All teaching must follow the step-by-step progression of the training system.

1.2. Demonstrating Correct Movements

Instructors are expected to provide clear, slow, and accurate demonstrations that beginners can easily imitate.
Demonstrations must reflect safe and technically correct Nordic Walking.

1.3. Providing Clear and Simple Explanations

Instructions should be:

  • concise

  • easy to understand

  • free of unnecessary terminology

Beginners learn best when instructions are simple and focused on one correction at a time.

1.4. Giving Basic Corrections

The instructor identifies beginner-level errors and provides gentle, constructive feedback.
Corrections should focus on the most essential points:

  • posture

  • rhythm

  • pole angle

  • arm swing

  • hand release

Advanced corrections are outside the responsibility of this level.

2. Safety Responsibilities

2.1. Pre-Session Safety Checks

The instructor ensures that:

  • equipment is appropriate and safely adjusted

  • terrain is suitable for beginners

  • weather conditions allow safe participation

  • participant spacing is adequate

Safety must be monitored throughout the entire session.

2.2. Managing Risk

Beginner instructors must:

  • avoid unsafe terrain

  • prevent excessive intensity

  • adapt pace to participant fitness

  • recognize signs of discomfort or fatigue

Any potential issue must be addressed immediately.

3. Participant Management Responsibilities

3.1. Creating a Positive Learning Environment

The instructor supports beginners by:

  • encouraging progress

  • reducing anxiety

  • correcting respectfully

  • promoting enjoyment of physical activity

A supportive atmosphere improves technique acquisition.

3.2. Working with Mixed Beginner Groups

The instructor must adapt teaching to:

  • different ages

  • different fitness levels

  • participants with basic physical limitations

Adaptation should stay within beginner-level methods.

3.3. Monitoring Participant Progress

The instructor observes and records the basic progress of each participant to ensure they are developing:

  • correct posture

  • coordinated movements

  • confidence in using poles

Progress monitoring is essential for maintaining training quality.

4. Professional Responsibilities

4.1. Acting Within Certification Scope

A beginner-level instructor may:

  • teach introductory Nordic Walking classes

  • work with general recreation groups

  • deliver basic technique sessions

A beginner-level instructor may not:

  • teach advanced technique

  • provide athletic training plans

  • diagnose injuries

  • conduct performance testing

  • certify other instructors

Working outside the certified scope is strictly prohibited.

4.2. Maintaining Professional Conduct

Instructors must:

  • arrive prepared and on time

  • respect all participants

  • communicate clearly and professionally

  • model correct technique and safety behavior

  • uphold the standards of NWANA and the training system

5. Summary

A beginner-level Nordic Walking instructor is responsible for:

  • teaching foundational technique

  • ensuring safety

  • creating a positive learning environment

  • managing diverse beginner groups

  • maintaining professionalism

  • working strictly within the defined scope of certification

These responsibilities form the basis of your work as an instructor and prepare you for more advanced levels of certification.

Last modified: Friday, 27 March 2026, 7:55 PM