1. Purpose of Communication Protocols

  • establish clarity and expectations

  • maintain order and safety within the group

  • ensure participants understand technique and route

  • reduce anxiety for beginners

  • enable quick response in unexpected situations

  • build trust and professionalism

Consistent communication is part of the instructor’s leadership role.

2. Pre-Session Communication

2.1. Opening Briefing

Before warm-up, the instructor must provide a short overview covering:

  • today’s session plan

  • expected duration and route

  • any important safety notes

  • weather-related adjustments

Example:
“Today we’ll focus on pole-plant technique. We’ll use the flat loop in the park, about 1.5 km. The ground is a bit damp, so watch your footing.”

2.2. Equipment Check Reminder

Briefly remind participants to:

  • tighten straps

  • check shoe laces

  • adjust clothing layers

  • confirm poles are secure

This reduces avoidable interruptions later.

2.3. Participation Check-In

Ask a general question:
“Is everyone feeling okay to start today?”

This signals that participant well-being is a priority.

3. Communication During the Session

3.1. Simple, Short Instructions

Use clear, direct commands:

  • “Group together.”

  • “Slow pace.”

  • “Watch the ground here.”

  • “We stop at the next tree.”

Avoid long explanations, especially while moving.

3.2. Clear Technique Cues

Cues must be concise and actionable:

  • “Stand tall.”

  • “Angle back.”

  • “Smooth rhythm.”

  • “Open the hand.”

Avoid technical jargon unless already explained.

3.3. Volume and Tone

  • speak loudly enough for the whole group

  • use a calm, confident tone

  • avoid shouting unless necessary for safety

Confidence in voice = confidence in instructor.

3.4. Group Management Signals

Use predictable verbal markers to organize participants:

  • “Regroup here.”

  • “Line up behind me.”

  • “We move in 10 seconds.”

Consistency keeps the group disciplined and efficient.

3.5. Safety Alerts

When hazards appear (slippery area, cyclist approaching):

  • “Caution — slippery.”

  • “Bike on the left.”

  • “Narrow path ahead.”

Short, immediate alerts minimize risk.

3.6. Positive Reinforcement

Motivation is delivered through simple comments:

  • “Great posture.”

  • “Nice work on that push.”

  • “Good pace — stay relaxed.”

Positive tone helps beginners learn faster.

4. Communication With Individuals

4.1. Quiet, Private Corrections

Move closer and speak softly:

  • “Let’s try a smaller swing.”

  • “Lift the chest slightly.”

Never call out individual mistakes publicly.

4.2. Encouragement for Low-Confidence Participants

  • “You’re doing well — no rush.”

  • “Your rhythm is improving.”

This reduces anxiety and keeps them engaged.

4.3. Respect Boundaries

Avoid physical contact; use demonstration instead.

5. Communication in Unexpected Situations

5.1. If Someone Feels Unwell

Stop the group and communicate calmly:

  • “Let’s pause for a moment.”

  • “How are you feeling? Do you need to rest?”

Do not minimize or ignore symptoms.

5.2. If the Group Becomes Too Spread Out

  • “Slowing the pace.”

  • “We regroup at the bench ahead.”

Coordination prevents loss of control.

5.3. If Conditions Change (weather, terrain)

  • “We’ll shorten the route.”

  • “Avoid this area — follow me this way.”

Be direct and decisive.

6. End-of-Session Communication

6.1. Closing Summary

Briefly review what was practiced:

“Today we focused on posture and basic pole-plant. Excellent improvements by everyone.”

6.2. Hydration Reminder

Encourage participants to drink water and cool down properly.

6.3. Next Session Preview

Creates continuity and motivation:

“Next time we’ll work on improving rhythm and stride.”

6.4. Availability for Questions

Allow participants to approach individually after the session.

7. Communication Principles for Professionalism

Every instructor should follow these standards:

  • be clear, calm, and consistent

  • avoid unnecessary complexity

  • maintain positive tone

  • speak confidently, without hesitation

  • ensure everyone hears and understands instructions

  • create an atmosphere of safety and trust

Communication is not an accessory to instruction—it is the backbone of effective teaching.

8. Summary

Communication protocols ensure that Nordic Walking sessions are safe, organized, and effective. A proficient instructor:

  • opens with clear briefings

  • gives short, actionable instructions

  • manages the group with predictable cues

  • provides private corrections and public encouragement

  • communicates decisively in unexpected situations

  • closes each session with structure and clarity

Reliable communication builds trust, reduces risk, and strengthens the learning experience for all participants.

Last modified: Friday, 27 March 2026, 8:43 PM