How do you use the Groene Loper, Nol?
“The Groene Loper exudes vitality, which fits in well with my practice.”
The Groene Loper is not only a traffic link, but also a special place in Maastricht where urban nature, relaxation and exercise come together. We are curious to find out how people use the Groene Loper. This time, we asked physiotherapist Nol Rosier (35).
My first encounter
‘I remember that we used to always get stuck in traffic here on the A2 motorway.’ Nol points outside from his physiotherapy practice on the Groene Loper. ‘At that time, the first large signs about the construction of the tunnel appeared. It was hard to imagine back then. And look how the Groene Loper has developed since then.’ In 2021, Nol moved his practice from Scharnerweg to the Groene Loper. ‘My business philosophy fits perfectly with what this area stands for: health, well-being and vitality.’
My choices
He now has a thriving physiotherapy practice, where he also regularly treats residents from the surrounding neighbourhoods. ‘Many come by bike and via the Groene Loper. Of course, I welcome that. I myself consciously choose the Groene Loper as a place to do various tests and measurements. Or to exercise with patients who need to rehabilitate. It's a flat course. Ideal!’
What strikes me
While Nol quietly exercises with his patients on the Flaneerpad, fast-moving electric bikes sometimes whizz past them. ‘That bothers me. It's also quite unpleasant for people with a walker or mobility scooter. Fortunately, that is changing now that fast cyclists are using the road more. This way, the middle path is really becoming a place to stroll and cycle quietly again.’ You can also do that with an e-bike, but if you want to go fast, you can do that on the road.
My tip
Nol's practice is located on the corner of Groene Loper and Professor Cobbenhagenstraat. "I regularly see near-accidents there when crossing towards Voltastraat. So my tip would be: pay attention! And motorists should stick to the 30 km/h speed limit more. But also take a look around and see what the Groene Loper has to offer in terms of sports. That offering is only growing."
My favourite moment
‘On weekends, early in the morning, you see a lot of joggers here. I love that. The morning sun, a little dew.’ Nol sees opportunities for the Groene Loper. ‘By using the middle path as a walking path and the roadway for fast cyclists, you get the most out of this area. That way, everyone can enjoy it in their own way.’