Sheikh Zayed Road. Photo: Shutterstock
If speeding down Sheikh Zayed Road without getting a ticket is on your bucket list, you’re in luck — but only if your car is left at home. On November 8, runners of all levels are welcome to dash across a portion of the major 14-lane highway for the first time as part of the ongoing Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) 2019, in which UAE residents are on a mission to dedicate 30 minutes of their day to physical activity for 30 days. Starting at the Dubai World Trade Center, registered participants can choose between a 5km- or 10km-route for a unique glimpse of the city’s iconic skyline, with the 5km Fun Run inclusive of all ages and fitness abilities and the longer option catered to those 18 and older.
An initiative started by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, the third annual #DFC30x30 encourages individuals to adopt a healthier lifestyle and make Dubai the most active city worldwide. More than 5000 free exercise classes and activities can be found throughout the city, whether it’s an energizing Zumba class at Festival City Mall, sunset yoga at Kite Beach, or a high-intensity interval training sesh in Downtown Dubai. Aiming to create a well-rounded approach to fitness, health checkups and other wellness assessments are also available at select facilities.
Technology is further integrated into the event this year with the introduction of the “Find Your 30” virtual platform sharing access to various digital content from social channels, blogs and podcasts to daily challenges. Challengers also have the ability to create personal goals, track their progress, and compete against friends via the Dubai Fitness App.
With only a little more than two weeks until 30×30 ends on November 16, it’s time to put down the tiramisu and pick up our running shoes—after just one last bite.
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