Mall walkers bring vintage vibes to Portland shopping center

PORTLAND, Ore. (InvestigateTV) — A sea of spandex and neon fills the Lloyd Center every Sunday morning as a group of mall walkers brings 1990s energy to the shopping center.

The group calls itself ‘The Food Court 5000′ and meets weekly for 3.5 miles of power walking through the mall. Led by Krista Catwood, the walkers embrace vintage fashion and community spirit while getting exercise.

“Call me the mall walking queen, America’s next mall walking superstar,” Catwood said.

From fitness reluctance to community building

Catwood started the group while searching for a fun way to stay active. She said she knew the idea was good, but had no idea how many people would be interested.

“Fitness is brand new to me. I am not an exercise person. I literally started this because I hate exercise,” Catwood said. “It’s changed the way I look at fitness. And I get to wear amazing outfits.”

Catwood said spreading joy through performance has been part of her life since middle school. Her love of vintage clothes fits perfectly with the group’s aesthetic.

Building connections at the mall

The group has become a recognizable fixture at Lloyd Center.

Catwood said they have become “sort of B celebrities of the mall,” and most people who come there know who they are.

“If they don’t know who we are, they get this look of what the heck is going on – and then the smile across the face, cuz we’re waving at them,” Catwood said. “That’s one of the rules of mall walking, you have to wave at absolutely everybody.”

Member Mary said the group often supports mall businesses by eating at restaurants after their walks. She said the people, energy, kindness and inclusion keep her coming back.

Inspiring all ages

The group includes walkers of various ages, including 80-year-old Leslie, who will turn 81 in two months.

“I’m having the time of my life,” Leslie said. “I get so much from those 2 hours, you have no idea. And it’s fun, it’s healthy – and it’s inspiring. It’s the joy of my week, it really is.”

Leslie encouraged others to join the group, saying, “Get up, get out. Get over here.”

Catwood said the group has a core of regulars and continues to grow. Through their weekly walks, the mall walkers are breathing new life into the Lloyd Center while creating community connections.