Husbands will probably find this article quite dangerous. Despite being about a unique form of exercise, it may wreak havoc on their wallets! Husbands of financially independent women need not fear! Mall walking is here!
Actually, it's not that new. It is a form of exercise of which I was reminded while away on an educational seminar recently. Despite being on a business trip, I snuck in some time at Sawgrass Mills Mall in Florida, to which I had never been. Not being a huge shopper, I had just a few set things I hoped to find, and had intentions of leaving the mall by lunchtime.
I entered the car park looking to park near to one of the stores that I wanted to visit. I drove, then drove some more, thinking that just around the corner I would see the store. But I kept driving, and driving, eventually wondering just how huge this place really was.
Finally, I saw the store, parked, and found myself amongst a number of people pulling large suitcases. "People sure buy a lot of luggage," I mused, until I realised that these people were entering the mall with suitcases, not leaving it. That was another clue about the enormous size of this mall and the innumerable stores it contained.
Lunch time came and I had not even touched half the mall. In fact, I spent a considerable amount of time trying to figure out where exactly I was, and where to find the stores in which I was interested. The mall was so gigantic that there were employees at each directory (which also seemed multitudinous) helping lost shoppers like myself find their way!
And on and on I continued, dodging crazed consumers pulling massive suitcases in their wake, oblivious that they were at risk of rolling over some poor soul's foot and causing serious injury. Between the clatter of rolling luggage, the variety of languages (although dominated by Spanish) and the hoards of people walking in all different directions, I could have sworn I was in Miami International Airport.
And the walking went on. If one walks the entire internal perimeter, Sawgrass is apparently one and a half miles around. I can only imagine the distance I walked, traipsing back and forth, totally confused, trying to find stores of interest. Note to self: Plan out mall shopping prior to entering, otherwise, prepare to walk and walk. I easily clocked close to 3 miles that day.
Mall walking has been around for decades. In fact, I believe it used to be quite popular with some folks in our very own West Mall at some point. I wonder what led to its decrease in popularity as I no longer hear about it in Trinidad.
Mall walking might actually be quite an appropriate form of exercise in Trinidad, simply because it is safe! One need not worry about being mugged, or raped, or even falling into potholes and over crumbling pavements.
Mall walkers are safe from raging motorists and cyclists who these days seem to share a mutual dislike for pedestrians in their way. There is no rain, no uncontrolled dogs of irresponsible owners, and no exhaust fumes with which to contend.
Malls offer a climate-controlled environment, greatly appreciated by the elderly and others who are sensitive to the heat and humidity, and simply by those who dislike sweating excessively. Although, I must admit that walking briskly through Sawgrass, dodging bewildered shoppers at every step, I got not only a good sweat going, but also a devious stitch! Who gets a stitch walking in a mall? It's exercise I tell you!
Mall walking actually occurs before the malls open, in the earlier hours of the morning. That way, there are no shoppers to ruin a good steady pace. Although, having a few dazed shoppers in one's way can certainly help agility and balance! Mall walkers usually form clubs, similar to other sporting clubs like swim clubs, cycling clubs and running clubs. It becomes quite the social experience as regulars get to know each other and offer good company throughout the walks.
The down side of this is that one can window shop. I can just imagine walkers with the best intentions slowing down to observe a piece of clothing that has "caught their eye." So much for maintaining a good pace!
Then there are those with a bit more discipline, who continue walking, but certainly make a mental note of what they saw and sneak away after the walk is over to make a secret purchase. Husbands be warned, although I am sure some of you are just as guilty as your wives!
Mall walking seems to provide quite an entertaining alternative to mundane exercise. So people, walk on, but beware the food court!
Carla Rauseo, DPT, CSCS, ATRIC is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Certified Aquatic Therapy Rehabilitation Instructor at Total Rehabilitation Centre.