Scolton Manor will tomorrow (Saturday) host a free taster session in one of the fastest growing fitness activities in the UK, a novel way to get the blood pumping.

Nordic walking or pole walking, is more than just ordinary walking – it is twice as effective and gives a total body workout.

The hour-long session at Scolton Manor, near Haverfordwest, will be led by a fully trained Nordic Walk instructor, who will teach walkers the correct technique and provide suitable poles.

Nordic walking has been used as a summer training activity by cross country skiers since the 1930s and is now practised by walkers all over the world as a way of maintaining and improving strength and endurance.

It uses poles to encourage the use of the upper arms, which also help propel the walker along making the walk appear easier. The taster session, which takes place tomorrow, Saturday, October 18th at 10.30am, is organised by the National public health service for Wales and Health Challenge Pembrokeshire.

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Follow-on sessions will also be offered, with details of cost and dates available on the day.

To reserve a place on the session, call Rebecca Evans, senior public health officer on 01437 771270, or e-mail rebecca.evans@nphs.wales.nhs.uk. Leave your name and contact telephone number.