Feeling stuck in a sedentary routine? Ready for a change or aiming for those health goals? Dubai has the perfect solution! The Dubai Fitness Challenge 2024 kicks off this week, running from October 26 to November 24. It’s designed to transform you—physically and emotionally. And guess what? Overseas Filipinos in the UAE are excited to join in!
What is the Dubai Fitness Challenge?
The Dubai Fitness Challenge, launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has been inspiring residents and tourists since 2017 to commit to 30 minutes of daily exercise for 30 days. Last year alone, the event attracted 2.4 million participants with its city-wide activities, free workouts, and tournaments.
In a recent poll, The Filipino Times asked readers which events they’re most excited to join. The poll showed that 47.4 percent wanted to join cycling events, while 42.1 percent wanted to run. Meanwhile, yoga and dancing garnered 5.3 percent each.
Solo goals, stronger you
The Dubai Fitness Challenge is the ultimate event to enjoy with family and friends. But what if you’re going solo? No worries! Meet Mheanne Codico, who is proving that you don’t need a team to crush your fitness goals.
“I am doing Zumba at home po,” Mheanne told The Filipino Times, explaining that she does Zumba alone to be healthy and lose weight after being diagnosed with high blood pressure. This proves that even if you are not participating in a public Dubai Fitness Challenge event, you can be fully aligned with Dubai’s initiative for a healthier lifestyle.
Those interested in free Zumba and dance classes can join the JLT Fitness Hub at the JLT Park Amphitheater or the Zumba Festival at JBR Beach. Registration is free and takes just a few minutes on the Dubai Fitness Challenge website!
Group goals, better together
Meanwhile, some OFWs are on the lookout for fitness buddies. Many Dubai residents are turning to Threads, a popular social media app, to find companions for the Dubai Run 2024. One netizen posted, “Yung sasali ka sa Dubai Run 2024 na mag-isa. Saan pwede makisabay?”
Joining the Dubai Run 2024 is simple—just sign up at www.dubairun.com/en/register, select a running time slot, and keep an eye out for an email detailing when and where to pick up running T-shirts and bibs.
Ready, set, sweat
Whether you’re running solo or with friends, being prepared is key for any fitness event. Abu Dhabi-based Marjorie Martinez is gearing up for the Dubai Run 10K by mixing short and long runs two to three times a week, in addition to her regular resistance training at the gym.
“If you are going just for fun, I suggest signing up for the 5k run instead of 10k. Depending on your fitness level, you can start off with short 2k walks and build up to a longer 5k a week before the Dubai Run. There are free apps you can use such as the Couch to 5k app to help you with you’re training,” she added.
Safety is priority
While many OFWs are excited to join the Dubai Fitness Challenge, Ricky Bang Elliot is participating in a different way—serving as a marshal for the Dubai Ride and Dubai Run, ensuring the event runs smoothly. He may not be running as your usual participant, but he’s playing a crucial role in making it all happen.
“Ang duties po ng marshal sa Dubai Run is to guide the participants to the starting line, crowd control, at i-encourage yung mga beginners na nagwa-walk na mag jog and run,” Elliot said. “Sa Dubai Ride naman po, tsini-check namin yung riders kung naka safety gear, like helmet. Ini-instruct din namin yung rider na i-follow yung maintaining speed na 30kph at yung distance to avoid an accident,” he added.
Dubai Ride is a cycling event where participants can choose between the 12km route along Sheikh Zayed Road or the family-friendly 4km route along Downtown Dubai. Interested participants can register at www.dubairide.com/register for free.
Let’s do this!
The Dubai Fitness Challenge has truly inspired Filipinos in the UAE to adopt healthier lifestyles. This month-long initiative not only encourages individual wellness but also creates a vibrant sense of community and camaraderie among participants.
What about you? What motivates you to join the Dubai Fitness Challenge?
