During 2010 I was waiting to have my right hip replaced, and walking any distance was becoming more and more painful. I had always been a keen walker and found the restriction quite depressing. I then met Michal and was introduced to Nordic Walking. This was a life line for me, as I was able to walk with the poles and keep much fitter mentally and physically, than I would have been able to with my worsening condition. To keep my muscles strong was very important leading up to a major operation and as a result I have recovered much quicker than if I had not been fit. As I now have my own poles, and after some ‘brush up’ lessons from Michal, I will be looking forward to a healthy 2011, both physically and mentally. I like the overall wellbeing feeling after a good Nordic Walk. Michal is so fit and so well trained, but it seems to me that every person, no matter what their level of fitness is worthy of his attention, expertise and kindness. Margaret Tunbridge Wells.