Wednesday, April 5, 2017, is ‘National Walking Day,’ and Westfarms is encouraging its 2,000 employees, as well as those who regularly walk the mall that straddles the West Hartford/Farmington border, to participate.

By Ronni Newton

Even the most fashion-conscious Westfarms employees are being asked to wear their sneakers on Wednesday and participate in the American Heart Association’s “National Walking Day” by walking at least one lap around the mall’s hallways.

The American Heart Association’s recommendation is that everyone take at least a 30-minute, heart-healthy walk.

According to Westfarms spokesperson Amanda Sirica, the 400 people who faithfully walk the hallways on a daily basis – a diverse ground ranging from moms with strollers to groups of seniors, will also be celebrated at post-walk events Wednesday morning. Others are encouraged to join the regulars.

The “Stroller Strides” workout will begin at 9 a.m., and the “Senior Mall Walkers” event begins at 10 a.m., Sirica said. Employees can complete their challenge laps at any time during the day.

According to Sirica, a lap around the entire upper level of Westfarms, including all corridors, adds up to 0.76 miles, or about 1,520 steps. Walking the lower level, including all corridors, adds up to 0.72 miles or approximately 1,440 steps.

In honor of National Walking Day, healthy snacks and giveaways will be available at the Hartford HealthCare Rest and Rehabilitation Lounge in the Nordstrom wing. A representative from the American Heart Association will also be on hand to discuss the healthy benefit of a daily 30-minute walk.

The American Heart Association advises that “moderate walking vs. vigorous-intensity running results in similar reductions in risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and possibly coronary heart disease.” Just 30 minutes of walking per day, five days per week, can “help prevent weight gain and lower the risk of obesity, as well as improve mental well-being and increase energy and stamina.”

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