AL FRESCO EXERCISE: EMBRACE THE LAST WEEK OF DUBAI FITNESS CHALLENGE AND FEEL THE BENEFITS OF AN OUTDOOR WORKOUT

Improved mood, a boost of vitamin D, lower blood pressure and better sleep are just some of the benefits you can look forward to after exercising outdoors. Fresh air and natural light work will add some extra magic to your workout, and with plenty on offer outside this Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), it’s time to step into the sunshine.

Sunshine boosts vitamin D and feel-good hormones

Sunlight improves our energy by enhancing muscle performance and improving oxidation of the tissues, along with giving us a vitamin D boost. Choose a morning swim to catch some recharging rays, or head to the DP World Kite Beach Fitness Village to soak up some seafront sunshine for a dose of serotonin – the hormone that affects our mood. Studies show our brains change how they perceive situations after just five minutes of being outside, so, in more ways than one your day will feel brighter once you step out.

Outdoor running burns more calories

Studies show that outdoor running can burn up to 10% more calories versus a static treadmill run, thanks to wind resistance and navigating changing terrains and routes, even if that is simply an outdoor running track. Not to mention it is usually a lot more interesting, so switching up your surroundings should also make your workout fly by a little faster.

Nature helps regulate blood pressure

Just seeing a hint of green is enough to start to settle our heart rate and blood pressure, studies show, and research has also found that any scenic view, whether that be cool urban landscapes, a serene beach, or golden desert, will have a positive effect on our self-esteem.

Spending time outdoors boosts productivity

Think you don’t have time for a workout? In fact, getting in a pre-office class or run might mean you can clock off a little early, because exercising outside is proven to increase productivity. Improved cognitive function thanks to better oxygen flow can help us stay sharper, and maintain concentration. So, a brisk morning walk may help you whizz through that PowerPoint twice as quickly. So, no excuses!

Nature helps our minds switch off

If you have pounded the treadmill and watched the seconds slip by what feels like far too slowly, you might not have felt recharged after your workout. Research has shown that outdoor exercise is beneficial to our brains because it provides an environment that does not require our direct attention (unlike a screen on a cross trainer, for example), meaning our minds have an opportunity to recuperate from mental fatigue. So, while you might feel too tired to exercise, a workout might actually give you the restoration you require.

Ready for an outdoor workout? Here are just some of the DFC options across the city that you can sign up for today:

• Dubai Run | the ultimate community run, presented by Mai Dubai and in association with Sun and Sand Sports, is taking place on Sheikh Zayed Road on 26 November (the final weekend of DFC 2023). Whether you choose to run solo, with friends, or with your family, itpromises to be the biggest and most unforgettable event yet.
• City Centre Mirdif Run | lace up your running shoes and join for an exciting adventure through the City Centre Mirdif Mall on 25 November starting from 7 AM. This is not just a race, it’s a celebration of unity, health, and community spirit during the last week of DFC. Choose from two routes – 600M or 2.5KM.
• Tomorrow Ride 2023 | gear up for the second edition of the Tomorrow Ride – a thrilling cycling event taking place on 25 November from 6:15 AM to 10:30 AM. The ride starts at Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University campus, with two courses – 4KM and 26KM, with the option of 52KM.
• The ICP Cycling Challenge |be prepared for the ride of a lifetime at the ICP Cycling Challenge 2023, sponsored by the Identity and Citizenship Authority. On 23 November, pedal your way through 50km of pure thrill on the stunning Al Qudra Cycling Track. Whether you’re a powerhouse woman, a dedicated member of the Identity and Citizenship Authority, or a passionate community rider, there’s a category just for you. With staggered start times, set your alarm for an exciting day of cycling.
• RTA Mushrif Park Cycle Centre | perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures, offering a range of cycling activities suitable for riders of all ages:
  • Guided Mountain Bike Trail Rides | beginner-friendly 5km trail or a more challenging 15km route designed for riders aged 12 and above.
  • Mushrif Park’s Road Tracks |beginners can take the 5km road track, while the 12km road track provides an intermediate route for the more adventurous.
• Community hubs across the city | designed to bring daily free activities and workout sessions to your doorstep, these community fitness hubs make it incredibly convenient for the entire family to achieve a healthier and more active lifestyle. Wherever you are in the city, there’s a community fitness hub nearby waiting to inspire you on your fitness adventure. Some examples include:
  • The Ultimate Dance Party | get ready to dance your way to fitness at The Beach, JBR with Zumba, trampoline fitness, boxing, kickboxing, yoga, and meditation classes. Revel in six hours of fitness fun every Friday and Saturday on the lawn area opposite the Pavilion. What’s more, a DJ will be on hand to keep the crowd entertained and energized between classes
  • The Ripe Market Fitness Hub | start your mornings the right way with a timetable of free events and classes that cater to all levels, held in partnership with F45, Karma Yoga, 8D Yoga, My Core Studio, Yoga House, Padel Park, Fetid and Earth Goods