Something as simple as walking can make a huge difference with your health. And as a parent, when you are feeling good the rest of the family reaps the benefits.
Research has shown that the benefits of walking and moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day can help you:
- Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease
- Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Improve blood lipid profile
- Maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity
- Enhance mental well being
- Reduce the risk of osteoporosis
- Reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer
- Reduce the risk of non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes
Who would have thought so many positive benefits could come from the simple act of walking? But talking about it and acting upon it are two different things. Now you have to start walking. Don’t worry you don’t have to join a fancy expensive gym. You can walk for free at Merle Hay Mall! Grab a friend or the kiddos and go for a nice warm indoor walk today!
Doors & Hours for Walking at Merle Hay Mall
Monday through Saturday walkers can enter the mall at 10 am and on Sundays, they can enter at 11 am. The mall is closed to mall walkers on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Environment
Mall walking inside Merle Hay Mall is a great benefit. The mall is environmentally controlled, lighted, and safe, making it an ideal place to walk. Additionally, the weather is never an issue, so you can continue your exercise routine year-round.
Length
Merle Hay Mall is approximately 1 mile inside. Mile markers are located throughout the mall. There is a start marker at the East entrance and markers every 1/8 mile. Click for a printable map. [divider]
Thanks to Merle Hay Mall, the Des Moines Moms Blog is beginning a weekly meet up/walking group – which is simply an opportunity for local moms to get together, laugh, share stories, offer support, lose some calories, and gain lasting friends. Bring your strollers, walk the mall, and maybe indulge in a little retail therapy before you go home. After a long week of wrangling kids, you deserve it!
Mommy Meet-Ups will happen every Tuesday evening from 6pm-8pm and Thursday morning from 9am-11am. Come for the whole time or come for a few laps. These days/times are open and come as you can. There’s no RSVP needed, just go at your own pace and make some friends.
Begin at the children’s play area near the East Entrance off Merle Hay Road then decide as a group which direction to go. One lap around the mall is approximately 1 mile.
I work at Merle Hay doing security. This information is no longer valid. Monday through Saturday Walkers can enter the mall at 10 am and on Sundays they can enter at 11 am
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