New smoothie bike brings fun, fitness, and fresh flavors

Date: 05/27/2026

It looks just like an ordinary stationary bike, but take a closer look, and it is clear that this cycling machine is building healthy habits in a fun and unique way. Northern Light Mayo Hospital recently welcomed its new Smoothie Bike, a bike that blends nutritious, delicious fresh fruit smoothies as people pedal away.

The Mayo Hospital Community Outreach Team purchased the bike with grant funding to support their exercise and nutrition education efforts in area schools and local communities. 

“Each push of the pedal turns the blender blades and mixes the smoothie,” says Hanna Bouchard, community health coordinator. “It only takes about a minute to fully mix the smoothie, depending on the specific ingredients and how fast the cyclist pedals. Once it has been mixed, the participant will get to try their delicious smoothie.” 

The Community Outreach Team plans to feature a variety of smoothie recipes, including a strawberry banana smoothie and smoothies that use ingredients from Maine. Participants will learn about the nutritional value of the smoothie ingredients and discuss the importance of staying active as a part of overall health.

In Piscataquis County, nearly 40 percent of people consider their health to be fair or poor, according to the 2025 Maine Shared Community Health Needs Assessment. Bouchard believes that showing how better nutrition choices and a more active lifestyle can be fun may inspire people to work toward a healthier life.

“The Smoothie Bike is an interactive way to promote healthy living, wellness, and community engagement for people of all ages,” says Bouchard. “It is not about providing a workout, it’s about drawing attention to the fact that exercise can be fun, and healthy food can be delicious. It’s a creative way to share an important message.”

The Community Outreach Team will debut the smoothie bike in the community at the Dexter Regional High School JMG and Positive Action Team Color Run on Saturday, May 30 from 8:30 am to 10:30 am in downtown Dexter.