Black receives 13th annual Maine Fitness Award

    HOULTON — When it comes to physical fitness, Alissa Black of Houlton has received state-wide recognition.
    Black was presented with the Maine Fitness Award in the Special Populations Category for the Houlton Band of Maliseets Fitness Program on April 26 at the 13th Annual Maine Fitness Award Celebration held in the State House Hall of Flags.
    Black’s position as fitness coordinator began in 2003 through a grant with the goal of providing Maliseet Tribal members with fitness/nutrition opportunities within the community.
    At the initiation of the program, she implemented a couple fitness classes, which included “Stability Ball” and “Strength Training” classes. Opportunities expanded to include Youthand Head-start fitness classes, as well as an elder fitness class.
AWARDED — Alissa Black, HBMI fitness coordinator, was recognized with the Maine Fitness Award April 26. Taking part in the ceremony are, from left, Ann LePage; Black; and  Maine Governor’s Council Co-Chairs Erik Steele DO; and Joan Samuelson.
    “Alissa helped to establish a fitness room with unused equipment, and has since added new treadmills, elliptical, bikes, and strength training equipment,” said Clarissa Webber, Tribal public health liaison. “This fitness room is available for community members and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians staff to use during their established fitness hour two days a week.”
    The program continues to show growth with physician referrals for person training consults and specialized classes. She also works one on one with some children in the tribal community at the request of parents, recognizing a need for their children to be more physically activeand to establish a healthy lifestyle.  The latest fitness craze has been the Zumbafitness class which has grown to include participants from surrounding communities, and is averaging 75 participants per class, which is held two nights a week.
    The only cost involved to any participants is for non-tribal members who take Zumba, paying $3.50/class.  Alissa also developed an exercise component that is incorporated into our diabetes program.  She holds lunch time fitness classes that tribal employees take advantage of, which switches the focus of workout each class.
    With all of the programs she has implemented she evaluates success based upon number of participants, as well as feedback.  Her goal is to continue offering fitness opportunities to community members of all ages along with education on the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle.  She enjoys seeing the youth taking part in the games and activities, and states “it is my desire to see that movement become a habit that grows with them into adulthood”.
    Black is a Certified Master Personal Trainer, Licensed ZUMBA instructor II, Licensed Aqua Zumba Instructor, Certified Aerobic Instructor, and has received the Nashville Area Tribal Recognition Award for outstanding service in healthcare within the community.