University of Southern Maine

News Releases

USM Lifeline Celebrates 30th Anniversary

October 19, 2006

The 30th anniversary of one of the region’s oldest and best known wellness programs will give the public a chance to learn more about Latin line dancing, get weight lifting tips from a power lifting champion, or just participate in a walk-jog exercise program. 

USM’s Lifeline Center for Wellness and Health Promotion, which began as a single exercise program serving 10 people, and today serves the health needs of hundreds of individuals, businesses and other organizations, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an open house on Friday, November 3. The open house will be held from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in USM’s Sullivan Recreation and Fitness Complex, Falmouth St., Portland. See the complete schedule of events.

The 12 hours of scheduled activities reflect Lifeline’s public service-focused mission of helping people – regardless of age or physical condition – meet their fitness goals and enjoy healthy lifestyles. 

In addition to walk-jog demonstrations and a cardiac rehab class for heart disease patients, open house activities include Latin line dancing; massage therapy; a heart healthy cooking class; a Nordic walking guide clinic; and a weight training demonstration by AWPC World Power Lifting Champion Stephanie Ross.  Lifeline staff also will be on hand to offer advice on exercise equipment and to give fitness evaluations and blood pressure screenings.

“As part of a public university, we’re here to give members of the general public, the campus community, and employees of Maine businesses and organizations, the tools they need to reach their optimum level of wellness,” said Tom Downing, Lifeline’s executive director who has been with the program since its inception. “Our open house is intended to give the public a chance to come by and get some advice on fitness programs and techniques, and take away a tip or two on healthy living.”

Hundreds of people take advantage of Lifeline’s community-based fitness and rehabilitative services. Lifeline also has more than 20 years of experience in helping public and private organizations design and implement worksite wellness services. Those organizations include Hannaford Bros.; LL Bean; the Maine Turnpike Authority; Harriman Associates; and Bath Iron Works.

For more information, please call 780-4170.

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