Feeling well on the Wellness Trail

Pine needles on the Wellness Trail.
Photograph by Melissa Jeffers

If you're feeling bogged down, overwhelmed with your classes, or just need a break then LBCC has a solution for you.

For the first time ever at the Albany campus there will be a recreational group meeting twice a week at the Wellness Trail. On Sept. 30 the debut of the LB Roadrunners activity group dawned a new era of healthiness on campus as they announced their plans to meet weekly.

Leslie Hammond, associate dean of liberal arts, will meet every Tuesday and Thursday at noon behind the Activities Center with LB Roadrunners to enjoy some healthy living as they walk or run together.

There is no fee or sign up sheet to join. All you have to do is show up and enjoy a walk or run with a friendly face.

“I like being able to run for miles and miles,” said Hammond.

Students are constantly in their books, studying, and staring at computer screens instead of getting the exercise that they need. The Department of Health and Human Services recommend that healthy adults should spend 150 minutes a week practicing moderate aerobic activity.

“I run for enjoyment and health,” said LB RoadRunner Josh Carper.

The Wellness Trail originated from the need of track and cross country runners to have a softer place to practice and train. Initially made with a layer of bark dust, the trail didn't hold up to the elements well. The Wellness Committee kickstarted the transformation of the trail to what we have today. Money for improvements came from fundraisers and Track and Field donations.

Leslie Hammond takes a noon job on
the Wellness Trail.
Photograph by Melissa Jeffers

The Wellness Trail has two loops to utilize. By walking or running the entire figure eight, users will have gone one mile. Walk or run the smaller trail and you will have completed half a mile.

Along with the Wellness Committee, fundraisers, and donations there were people who helped with the physical labor of the rebuild. Brad Carman, a physical education instructor, was one of the people responsible for construction of the trail. He helped excavate the former trail and lay the new material down.

“The track and Wellness Trail have been convenient resources for our campus community for years. I hope many of you will be able to take advantage of those areas for exercise or as a place to go for a break and fresh air,” said Carman.

No matter your fitness level LB Roadrunners can move at your pace. Take 30 minutes twice a week out of your schedule to walk or run for your health. If noon doesn’t fit into your schedule there is also a walk or run at 1 p.m.

For questions regarding the LB Roadrunners Wellness Trail walk or run...

Contact: Leslie Hammond, Associate Dean of Liberal Arts

Phone: (541) 917-4911

Office: SSH 101

Email: hammondl@linnbenton.edu