Nordic Walking on the Blue Coast: When Sports Health Rhymes with Pleasure and Fresh Air

On this sunny Monday morning, the port of Carro became the starting point for a human and sports adventure. Laurence Durandau put on her sneakers to follow the NWA Côte Bleue Club (Nordic Walking Attitude). Between well-being, competition, and breathtaking landscapes, the discovery of a discipline that is gaining more and more followers of all ages.

“We take a deep breath!” These were the words Laurence Durandau used to kick off the journey on the coastal trail of Martigues after a rainy Sunday. 70 members of the NWA Côte Bleue club gathered for a session of Nordic walking that combined dynamism and conviviality. After warming up to the sound of Kuduro at the Carro port, the energy spread from the very first steps.

Sandrine Barnich: the pioneer of Nordic walking in PACA Heading this enthusiastic group, Sandrine Barnich, a “health & fitness” coach and iconic figure of the discipline. Since 2007, she has been a pioneer in the region and founded the NWA club in 2009. For her, Nordic walking is more than just a walk with poles.

“The Nordic walk is dynamic, regardless of the level of practice. From well-being levels to more sporty levels, we walk in rhythm!” she explains passionately to Didier, one of the club’s coaches.

What drives the enthusiastic coach is the desire to showcase “her Côte Bleue,” a playground full of stunning scenery along the sea, hills, and calanques. Nordic walking, with its specific technique using poles to propel the body forward, allows for a versatile experience.

“We are in 4×4 mode, it goes everywhere!” jokes Laurence Durandau after covering 11 kilometers on the technical trails of the Côte Bleue. During the circuit, the pace is maintained, and the fun atmosphere prevails as members exchange with each other and note tips from experienced competitors.

Sport as therapy: the moving testimony of Véronique Beyond physical performance, the club focuses on sports health. Véronique’s story, a loyal member who survived leukemia and a bone marrow transplant in 2025, illustrates the therapeutic value of Nordic walking.

“I found everything I was looking for here: well-being, health, and above all, rebirth. Thanks to Nordic walking, I feel alive again,” says Véronique emotionally.

Sandrine Barnich confirms this therapeutic dimension: “It is an activity focused on health. One must know how to manage oneself and adapt training according to one’s current fitness level.”

Competition and contemplation While well-being is central, NWA Côte Bleue also shines in sports achievements, boasting several French and regional champions like Leslie Lejeune, David De Lavenasse, Christophe Rey, and Marc Castellani.

However, the spirit remains the same: “We are competitors but not addicts. We aim for longevity,” notes Sandrine. During a recent session immortalized by Laurence Durandau, competitors completed between 12 and 13 kilometers, guided by the sea breeze and the beauty of yellow flowers in a rapeseed field.

Next appointment: La Calanquaise on April 19th The club is busy organizing La Calanquaise, a trail and Nordic walking event taking place in Carry le Rouet on Sunday, April 19th for its 11th edition. The event has been fully booked for two months, showcasing the enthusiasm for this region.

The day’s program includes a 15 km trail, a 7.3 km mini-trail, a timed 12 km Nordic walk (FFA label), and a leisurely stroll for all levels. The spirit of the NWA Côte Bleue club revolves around accessibility, maintenance, challenge, socializing, and relaxation without any hassle.

The relentless motivation of members over time, the kindness of the administrative staff led by Domi, and the sharp humor of Patrice Barnich, the president, demonstrate the club’s enduring appeal. Trying the discipline is adopting it! To join the club, visit nordicwalking-attitude.fr.

[Context: The article discusses the Nordic Walking Attitude Club’s activities and participants in a recent event at the Carro port. It highlights the health benefits and social aspects of Nordic walking among members.] [Fact Check: Verify the event details and names of individuals mentioned in the article for accuracy before publication.]