RUMFORD – In partnership with Rumford Community Hospital, Black Mountain of Maine and Maine Winter Sports Center’s Healthy Hometowns Program will return the Nordic walking program to the River Valley starting at 4:30 p.m. today, at the Black Mountain of Maine Lodge, 39 Glover Road.

Nordic walking is walking with cross country ski poles for a more complete workout for the upper and lower body. Aside from the physical benefits, some of the reasons for the sport’s popularity are its low cost, the ability for participants to Nordic walk almost anywhere and its accessibility for all ages and abilities.

Stating that it is the perfect exercise for anyone who wants to start an exercise program, regardless of age or level of physical fitness, Healthy Hometowns coach Mike Yeo said, “Generally speaking, if you can walk, you can Nordic walk, and most people who try this sport really like it. It’s fun, it’s a great social activity, and it can be as easy or as rigorous a workout as the participant wants to make it.”

The free program will begin with a video and demonstration. Walking poles will be available on loan to participants, at no charge, for the duration of the program. Nordic walking will take place at 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Thursday from Sept. 17 to Oct. 25. Attendance of the introduction session is not required.

Depending on the number of participants, two groups a session are planned. One group will be targeted at people interested in walking for shorter times and distances and the other will be targeted at people interested in walking farther and faster. Everyone who is interested is welcome to join. For more information, call the Black Mountain of Maine lodge at 364-8977.

Black Mountain of Maine is a nonprofit organization owned by the Maine Winter Sports Center and is dedicated to re-establishing skiing as a lifestyle in Maine.