Active IQ has announced a new partnership with Nordic Walking UK, which will see the awarding organisation provide flexible training options to the outdoor activity provider’s unique range of learners.

Nordic Walking UK has more than 3,000 trained instructors, while 500 new learners complete their qualifications each year – a large number of which are completely new to the fitness industry. Under the tie-up, Active IQ will oversee Nordic Walking UK’s Circuits, Fitness Instructing, Education and Training and Exercise Referral provision.

Given its accessibility to a wider audience than some forms of physical activity, Nordic Walking also attracts a more diverse range of instructor. Almost 90 per cent of Nordic Walking UK’s learners who are new to the fitness industry are 44 or older, while nearly half are over 54, with some of the oldest learners in their 70s. As a result, said Nordic Walking UK master trainer and founder Martin Christie, the company needs its training to be flexible to learners needs and lifestyles by encompassing e-Learning modules and blended learning options.

“Active IQ recognises the importance of providing accessible education for all learners; those with differing academic backgrounds and learning needs,” added Christie.

“Partnering with a flexible awarding organisation that could offer tailored qualifications catering for our learners’ needs was very important to us.”