The East Portland community has a new fitness trail!

Adventist Health Portland LivingWell Fitness Trail runs the perimeter of the scenic Adventist Medical Center campus providing a fun way to gain the benefits of physical activity in a beautiful natural setting.

The one-mile outdoor fitness trail, and other locations in and around the campus, incorporate a series of QR code trail signs.

Guests may choose to use their Smartphone to scan a QR code at each station to gain immediate access to brief video exercise demonstrations on strengthening the core, lower body, upper body, and/or on improving flexibility. Body weight provides the perfect resistance, so no extra equipment is needed – other than a Smartphone.

• Walking boosts immune function.  A study of over 1,000 men and women found that those who walked at least 20 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week, had 43% fewer sick days than those who exercised once a week or less.
• Outdoor activity boosts mood. A study at the University of Queensland, Australia, found that those who exercised outdoors on a regular basis had higher levels of serotonin, a hormone that regulates mood, than those who mainly exercise indoors. They also had higher levels of endorphins, the “feel good” rush that occurs after exercising, especially in green, outdoor environments.