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Monday, June 20, 2005
Hey, Buddy, take a hike
Copyright © 2005 Blethen Maine Newspapers Inc. | ||||||||
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Walking man, walking man walks Well, any other man stops and talks But the walking man walks. -- James Taylor Walking outdoors is wicked easy for most people. No heavy weights to lift or foot pedals to pump up and down. Just a trail, a sidewalk or an open field is all that walkers need to set their course for 20 minutes, an hour or even longer. A good pair of sneakers or hiking shoes are also essential for a comfortable or rigorous stroll though woods, fields or city streets. Studies show that walking regularly reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke, and can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. An aerobic exercise, walking also keeps fat off and just plain makes people feel better. And there are lots of places in the Augusta area to walk. Matt "Twig" Largess, 50, is a walking man. As a professional forester and arborist, he usually directs his feet to the nearest stand of trees. On a recent day, Largess was enjoying a stroll in the Pine Tree State Arboretum with his 10-year-old dog, Gus, a chocolate Labrador retriever. "This place is very enjoyable. There are fields and forests, and the trails are excellent," said the Jamestown, R.I., resident. Five miles of easy-to-walk trails crisscross the 224-acre preserve off Hospital Street in Augusta. Some people prefer walking in familiar places such as neighborhood streets or nearby ball fields. Largess usually has a goal in mind when he hits a trail -- to seek out large trees, and the older the better. "I saw the Constitution pine here. I got a look at it," he said during a short break. Largess, who was in Augusta to give a lecture, plans to walk the trails again the next time he visits the city. The arboretum is bustling this time of year with flowers, and with birds, bugs and small animals on the move. Largess said he found the hosta plant collection particularly appealing. The collections of rhododendrons and lilacs were in bloom this spring. And Viles Pond attracts dragonflies and frogs. Bruce Chase, Augusta's recreation director, said another favorite walking area in the city is on the grounds of the Capital Area Technical Center. "A great place for walking is up at the 'vo-tech,' on the track (Alumni Field), and it's lit up at night," he said. Chase said another good walkway is Piggery Road and the sports fields beside the road, which is next to the arboretum. Studies have shown that walking improves self-esteem and helps relieve symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. Walking is also a social event, whether enjoyed with co-workers on a lunch break or with friends and family members at other times. And it's a great way to enjoy Maine's summer. Dan McGillvray -- 621-5642 dmcgillvray@centralmaine.com |
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