Here in Minnesota it’s very cold today. Actually as I write this at 9:30am it’s -3 degrees. Although I’m not a big fan of walking indoors I can appreciate that this kind of weather makes it very difficult or impossible for many to be outdoors. Taking your walk indoors is the perfect solution to keeping active during the cold and dark days of winter.
So where to go? We’re very lucky to have indoor malls with extra open hours that allow walking. No matter what time you head to your local shopping mall you’re bound to see people walking. And what’s better than just walking? Nordic Walking of course.
Look for a mall with a carpeted level. If you’re taking your poles indoors you need a floor surface that will let the pole hook up and not slip out from under you. In my local area Ridgedale Center, Mall of America and Southdale Center all have good “pole surfaces”. You can also check with your local community programs; Plymouth Creek Center, Delano and White Bear Lake have indoor walking tracks. Eagan Community Center, many of the YMCA’s and other fitness centers have indoor tracks.
When planning to walk indoors be sure to call ahead and confirm that they will allow you to walk with your poles. The tips are non marking so there should be no problems with damage to floors. Try to go during less busy times, be considerate of walkers and runners around you, and be ready for lots of questions about what you’re doing with poles.
