Mercy Hospital demos Nordic Walking poles for mall-walking club
Maine winter weather can challenge the most committed outdoor enthusiast — and winter can last well into what is considered spring else. Therefore, the Maine Mall in South Portland has been a popular walking venue since it opened more than 35 years ago. Mercy Hospital now has partnered with mall management to it walking as a safe and convenient environment for older adults to get a year-round cardio workout and to socialize with other mall walkers.
On March 12, 2007, the hospital and the mall partnered to launch Pacesetters, a free club with perks that include free monthly breakfasts, information on health and health screenings. With security staff on duty both inside and out, the mall unlocks its doors between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m. on weekdays and Saturdays and between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays — and Pacesetters are ready to get moving. They can get in a lot of mileage before the stores begin open, which is 9:30 on weekdays and 11:00 on Sundays.
One lap around the mall is about a mile, and many Pacesetters, who range in age from their 50s to a spry 106-year-old who arrives with her 78-year-old daughter, do several laps. Pacesetters members were given free pedometers in celebration of the club’s first birthday earlier this month and also had a Nordic Walking demonstration put on by the hospital.
Conveniently, for Pacesetters who need or want orthotics to help them walk comfortably, Foot-O-Pedics is right at the mall. So are The Walking Company, Sports Authority, Foot Locker and other footwear retailers for those in need of new walking shoes. What a benefit to be able to try them on right there.
For information on Pacesetters, call the mall’s Customer Information Booth, 207-828-2063, Ext. 233
