Maine's Capital Area

Walk with MaineGeneral health providers!  MaineGeneral Medical Center now offers free group trail walks led by health care providers at the Alfond Center for Health in Augusta. The Walk with Us program is another way MaineGeneral supports healthy lifestyles throughout the Kennebec Valley.

“MaineGeneral provides many free and low-cost resources for living healthier in our communities,” said CEO Chuck Hays. “Our medical staff and providers support these efforts. A number of them are making the commitment and taking time during the workday to lead walking groups around our scenic trails and paths at the Alfond Center for Health. We encourage anyone with an interest in getting out to walk in a safe, scenic environment to join us.”

“Making small changes in your daily routine can really add up to better health,” said Joy Osterhout, program leader for the Healthy Living Resource Center, a division of the Center for Prevention and
Healthy Living at MaineGeneral.

Health providers who have signed on to lead walks are Jamie Bullock, FNP; Barbara Crowley, MD; Andy Dionne, MD; Richard Fein, DO; Tim Pieh, MD; Roger Renfrew, MD; and Melanie Thompson, MD.

The walks begin at the entrance of the Alfond Center for Health, 35 Medical Center Parkway, Augusta. Walks are offered (weather permitting) each Tuesday through Sept. 22 from 12:30 – 1 p.m. and each Thursday through Sept. 24 from 3:30 – 4 p.m.

People of any age and ability can benefit from walking. According to the American Heart Association, 30 minutes of moderate physical activity like walking has many health benefits, including:

• Reducing the risk of heart disease,
• osteoporosis, diabetes and some cancers
• Improving blood sugar and blood pressure 
• Reducing stress