Mall Walkers
Don’t let the colder temperatures keep you from enjoying your morning walk. Head over to the Quail Springs Mall and join a team of people who have discovered the many benefits of walking indoors.
Karen, a sixty-six year old regular walker at the mall, said she goes to Quail Springs 4 to 5 days each week and walks approximately two miles in her routine.
“One reason I like to walk here is because it is climate controlled. Regardless of the weather, I know I’ll be getting my exercise.” She also stated that it’s better for her allergies when she’s inside rather than subjected to the pollen outdoors.
“I like to meet people here and I’ve actually made some good friends while walking," said Karen. The walk goes faster when you have someone to talk to.” She believes that her exercise has helped her stay healthy. “I have several friends who struggle with their weight and arthritis. I feel that I’ve avoided some of that by walking regularly for many years.”
Janelle and Lynn, a sister and brother duo, walk 45 minutes, 6 days a week at Quail Springs Mall. It gives them a chance to keep in touch as well as stay in shape. Both are in their sixties and look fit.
“I like it because there’s no charge to walk here and I don’t have to have a membership,” Janelle said. “I feel better when I walk and I can tell a difference when I don’t.”
Her brother added, “I just like getting out in the morning and it gives us a chance to visit.” They prefer exercising before the stores open. “It’s more of a challenge to get around people when the shoppers are here,” he said. The couple has made it part of their morning routine and walk at the same time each day.
Each of the mall walkers set their own pace but most of them walk briskly. They don’t seem too distracted by the window displays or special signs advertising sales.
“Occasionally I buy something when I’ve seen it during my morning walk,” Karen said. “One thing I like is that there’s a lot to see.”
Stacey Aldridge, the Director of Marketing at Quail Springs Shopping Mall, is glad the mall walkers are there.
“We enjoy being able to offer a comfortable environment for people of all ages to exercise and socialize,” she said, adding that she also has been a mall walker and that it’s a good workout.
“With the upper and lower levels combined, it is a mile and one fourth in distance to walk on the corridors.”
The mall doors open at 7 a.m., Monday through Saturday, and at 9 a.m. on Sunday. The mall has public safety personnel 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
