If you’re young at heart and looking to stay (or get) in shape this summer, consider taking a trip to the mall. No, not to pick up some hot new exercise product or dietary supplement, but to walk a few laps. Safe and convenient, “mall walking” has become one of the biggest trends in senior fitness. THE EXERCISE VENUE THAT WILL KEEP YOU COOL AND FIT THESE MALLS WERE MADE FOR WALKING
COOL IN THE SUMMER, WARM IN THE WINTER
This time of year, heatstroke can be a real concern when exercising outside. But that doesn’t mean you have to be a homebody. Because malls are spacious and climate- controlled, they make great year-round walking venues, especially when summer temperatures spike. You don’t even need to put on sunscreen!
REST STOPS ABOUND
While the average American shopping center isn’t as scenic as the Appalachian Trail, they are far more convenient. Replete with bathrooms, cool drinking water, and plenty of benches, the mall lets you focus on exercising and removes all of the “what ifs” that come with aging. Most malls are also outfitted with EMT kits in the event of a medical emergency.
KIELBASA KABOBS
INGREDIENTS
SQUEEZE IN SOME SHOPPING
• 2 pounds fully cooked smoked kielbasa • 2 large onions • 2 green bell peppers
• 3 red bell peppers • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1/4 cup olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste
It is still a mall, after all. Why not check a few items off your shopping list or reward yourself with a new pair of sneakers? Getting things done as you exercise makes the experience that much more rewarding. Just remember not to overdo it. Carrying too many shopping bags can place undue stress on your back — and your wallet.
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat grill to medium.
YOU WON’T BE ALONE
2. In a small bowl, combine oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Today, malls are the second-most popular places to walk in America, after neighborhoods. Mall walking has become so big that many communities and senior living centers have put together official groups to stride together. Your local mall may already open early to accommodate walkers. So if you’re looking to make friends in an active, fun-loving community, do some research. Chances are there’s a mall- walking club near you!
3. Cut pepper, onion, and kielbasa into 1-inch chunks.
4. Thread onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
5. Brush with oil mixture and grill, covered, 10–12 minutes.
[NOTE: If using bamboo skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.]
Inspired by Good Housekeeping
PATRIOT WEALTH | 919.322.4113 | P3
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