Dubai resident Safa G., who works long hours at a financial firm, often struggles to fit exercise into her hectic schedule. “I barely have time to grocery shop, let alone work out,” she shared. “I manage one gym session and a game of Padel on weekends, and I hope that’s enough to keep me healthy.”
Like Safa, many UAE residents juggle demanding schedules and only find time to exercise on weekends. But is this limited activity enough for maintaining health?
What Experts Say About Weekend Workouts
“Exercising only on weekends is better than no exercise at all,” said Dr. Swati Prasad, Specialist Internal Medicine at Aster Royal Clinic, Downtown. “It can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and hypertension. However, intensity and consistency are crucial. While weekend workouts help improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and mental well-being, they don’t provide the same benefits as regular exercise throughout the week.”
Dr. Swati’s comments come as the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) encourages residents to move for 30 minutes daily. The eighth edition of the initiative, led by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to make fitness a part of everyday life.
How to Stay Active During Busy Weeks
Personal trainer Radosław Leśniak from Fitness First Marina Gate recommends incorporating shorter, high-intensity workouts for those with tight schedules. “Even a 20-minute workout can make a difference,” he said. “Treat exercise like an appointment and make it a non-negotiable part of your day.”
Former Olympian and founder of FlexoFix, Karl Dariane, emphasized the importance of daily movement. “Our bodies need maintenance every day, not just on weekends,” he explained. “Sudden intense exercise after a sedentary week can lead to soreness, lactic acid buildup, or even injury.”
Karl advises incorporating small, consistent activities like walking, stretching, or active commuting to stay active during the week. These small changes help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
Making Fitness a Lifestyle
Finding enjoyable activities is key to making exercise sustainable, Radosław added. Whether it’s cycling, walking, or climbing stairs, integrating movement into daily life helps create long-term habits.
Karl concluded, “To maximize weekend workouts, add simple activities during the week and schedule regular physical rehabilitation to keep your body in its best shape.”
