Too hot to run outside? This country has the solution: races in shopping malls

Those who live in northern climes know that there are times in the winter when it is perilous to go outside to get some exercise, lest you want to get frost bite or even freeze to death. In places like the United Arab Emirates, they have the opposite problem, with summer temperatures surging into the triple digits exercising outdoors can be deadly.

However, both locations have found a convenient way to get some exercise while avoiding the adverse conditions outdoors, heading to the shopping mall. In the case of the UAE, an Abu Dhabi-based sports event company has been hosting organized indoor mall runs since 2017 so that people can stay fit and runners can enjoy their passion safely.

UAE’s malls uniquely suited for running indoors

Shopping malls are popular destinations in the UAE, especially Abu Dhabi, providing space not just for retail, but also entertainment, dining and social gatherings. They have also become venues for races organized by Gulf Multi Sport.

Abu Dhabi is home to several behemoth malls, two of which are about half the size of Mall of America, that offer plenty of space to organize runs of varying distances that follow different courses for runners of all fitness levels and ages. The ample space along with having groups start at staggered times ensures safety by avoiding overcrowding.

“Running inside a mall is climate-controlled, surfaces are even and good, with marshals to guide us. Mall runs are becoming more popular and attracting all ages,” Martin Corrado, a septuagenarian typically runs with his wife, shared with CNN. “To be able to continue running throughout the year is the most enjoyable feature.”

Gulf Multi Sport organizes all types of races including ladies-only events, that can attract over a thousand runners, and multi-run series like that held at Reem Mall.

The latter consists of four events, each consisting of three separate races, held each month from June to September. Runners can participate in individual races or compete across the series with the chance of becoming the Reem Mall’s Champion. Runners can even compete virtually if they happen to be out of town during the event.

Steve Watson, founder and managing partner of Gulf Multi Sport, told CNN that he’s been pleased with the shift he’s seen over the years. He explained that the events were originally mainly attended by expatriates, but nowadays there are many Emiratis among those participating, including whole families.

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