Christmas Shopping Burns Calories

“Once again, we come to the Holiday Season, a deeply religious time that each of us observes, in his own way, by going to the mall of his choice.”– Dave Barry

If you can maintain your normal workout schedule between October 31 and January 1, I’m super proud of you, but also skeptical that you’re lying. The holiday season is full of routine busters. The cookies tease us, parties take over our weekends, extended families fill our homes, and the shopping…Oh the shopping is my favorite part! AND, Christmas shopping counts as exercise!! Wait, let me clarify…getting out of the house and physically walking around a mall or outlet counts as exercise.

Here are some benefits of walking that will enhance your holiday season experience:

  1. Burns Calories
  2. Improves Energy
  3. Improves Sleep
  4. Boosts Immune Function
  5. Strengthens Bones/Joints
  6. Improves Mood

Don’t feel guilty if you need to skip the gym this week for a trip to the mall. These local spots will help you get in your steps.

  1. Concord Mills Outlet Mall: A complete walk around the mall is 2 miles.
  2. Northlake Mall Upper Level: 1 lap is .66 miles. 3 laps equals 2 miles.
  3. SouthPark Mall: Walking the perimeter, including the food court, is 1.5 miles.
  4. Birkdale Village: over 800 acres of stores.

Here is an added Bonus: If you buy gifts, carrying the bags adds more weight and increases your calorie burn!  Happy Shopping and Happy Holidays!

Article written by Sarah DoBroka Cooley PT, SCS, COMT, Cert DN

Sarah DoBroka Cooley PT, SCS, COMT, Cert DN has greater than 17 years of clinical experience and highly respected credentials including being a Board Certified Sports Clinical Specialist, a Certified Manual Therapist, and certifications in dry needling and instrument assisted manual therapy. She specializes in treating orthopedic injuries in athletes who compete on interscholastic, collegiate, Olympic, and professional levels. Locally, she has served as a PT consultant to Davidson College and was a member of the Motorsports Outreach Team for NASCAR. Contact her at dobroka11@yahoo.com.

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