Lloyd Center Mall Walking Group Brings 80s Fitness Fun to Portland
A weekly walking group at the Lloyd Center mall in Portland, Oregon, is blending nostalgia with wellness. Known as Food Court 5000, the group has become a local sensation since its founding about a year ago.
"I sought to incorporate movement into my sedentary office job."
Participants don retro 1980s workout attire, listen to hit music from the decade, and walk approximately 3.5 miles through three levels of the mall.
Founded by Krista Catwood, the group is open to all ages and abilities, including individuals who use mobility devices. What began as a small initiative has grown significantly:
- Special events now draw around 200 participants
- Typical weekly attendance averages about 50 people
The Lloyd Center mall, which first opened its doors in 1960, is scheduled to close in August after more than 65 years of operation. The group's weekly walks offer a vibrant community celebration of both fitness and the mall's enduring legacy.