RUMFORD — A Nordic walking demonstration will be held from 5 to 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. on May 2, 9 and 16 at Hosmer Field in Rumford and Akers Ski in Andover, respectively.

According to Carol Emery, member of the River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition, she and certified Nordic walking instructor Kathleen Carroll held a demonstration for Nordic walking a few years back and decided to bring it back this year — nearly three weeks before the coalition’s second annual Healthy Hearts 5K Run/Walk on May 19.

“When we did the demonstration a few years back, it was very popular,” Emery said. “This is just another form of walking that people can do during the Healthy Hearts 5K that’s coming up.”

The demonstration, which will take place on three consecutive Thursdays from May 2 to 16, weather permitting, will begin at Hosmer Field from 5 to 5:45 p.m. Emery and Carroll will lead participants around the track and field. Emery said that a second demonstration will be held from 6:30 to 7:15 at the one-mile square at Akers Ski in Andover. Carroll likely will arrive early at Hosmer Field to help measure and adjust the walking poles for those who attend, according to Emery.

Emery said that participants are welcome to bring their own Nordic walking poles, and walking poles will also be available for those who do not have any.

“We’re asking for people to call and reserve the poles, to make sure we have enough,” Emery said. “We have 20 poles that will be free to use those evenings. It’s free to borrow the poles for a night, but if you decide you’d like to rent them out for each night of walking, it will cost $10.”

Emery said that if this year’s demonstration goes well, she and Carroll will consider doing another next year.

“It’s a great way to start walking early in the season,” Emery said.

To reserve Nordic walking poles, call Emery at 364-7408.

mdaigle@sunjournal.com

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