Each November, Dubai reinvents the concept of getting moving. Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is a month-long progressive city-wide exercise event that turns the city into one giant open-air gym, which encourages residents to dedicate 30 minutes of exercise per day for 30 days. Although the most popular fitness events, such as the Dubai Run and Dubai Ride, attract thousands of fitness enthusiasts, they also have their fun side to the game, as the oddest, most unusual exercises show that fitness is fun in itself. Whether you are bouncing in bubble soccer or floating through yoga with puppies, the Dubai fitness month has it all. Here are five unusual ways to get fit this month—all happening across the city.
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5 Most Unusual Workouts Taking Over Dubai
1. Try Stand-Up Paddle at Hatta
Set against the astonishing backdrop of the Hajar Mountains, the Dubai Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) activity in the Hatta Dam is back this weekend (November 8 and 9). Get ready to see a series of complimentary activities and yoga classes on paddleboards, kayaking, and SUP training, taught by qualified instructors. This is one of the most picturesque means of engaging your core, your balance, and your mind all at the same time, no matter how advanced a paddler you are or are not.
2. Play Bubble Soccer or Football Zorbing
Have you ever desired to play football in a huge bubble? Here’s your chance! Bubble soccer is also known as Football Zorbing, which replaces serious sports activities with funny ones. As soon as the whistle is blown, it is all about hitting each other, rolling, and laughing to reach a goal. This game is equal parts cardio, coordination, and comedy—the best way to remember that fitness does not have to be serious.
3. CRANK Night Spin
In case you are into high-energy workouts with a twist, then this is one to go for. On November 27, at 7 pm, join the Crank Glow Ride at the Bluewaters, whereby the riders will ride together to generate light on a neon installation. The sooner you move, the lighter it becomes. It is a kind of workout, it is an art installation, and it is all-encompassing; the thriving combination of music, movement, and light is guaranteed to leave you glowing (literally).
4. Puppy Yoga at Palm West Beach
Who does not want to do a downward dog with real dogs? Fitness First returns Puppy Yoga at Palm West Beach on November 15, connecting sweet yoga with cuddly puppies. Mats, goodie bags, free day passes, etc., are given, but the best thing about it is the unconditional love and laughing throughout with your furry co-participants. Ideal for melting stress and developing flexibility and balance.
5. Water Yoga at Kempinski Hotel
Bring in the end of the month in peace—but with how much more difficulty? In Water Yoga, which will be held at the Kempinski Hotel on November 29 and 30, the participants will do yoga poses on floating paddleboards. All the actions must be controlled and mindful when you stand on the wavering water, making the most basic positions a whole-body workout. It is the perfect place to finish the Dubai Fitness Challenge—serene, cool, and Instagram-envy-worthy.
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Final Thoughts
The fitness community in Dubai is still there to show that wellness is not one size fits all. You can always have fun in a creative way when you are bouncing in bubbles or pedaling during the stars or floating on water. Get your sneakers (or yoga mat) on and immerse yourself in the more unusual but unforgettable workouts of the month in the city.