Navigating Nutrition During Ramadan in Dubai: A Healthy Fastening Journey Guide
As the city of Dubai transitions from cooler months to summer, maintaining fitness during Ramadan fasting becomes a priority for many. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you stay active, hydrated, and healthy during this holy month.
- Splitting workouts into shorter, manageable sessions is a good way to stay active without overexerting during fasting. This approach allows for consistent exercise while minimising the risk of fatigue or injury.
- Hydration is essential during fasting, and it's important to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during the day. Electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or sports drinks can help balance hydration during fasting.
- Focus on low-impact activities such as yoga, Pilates, swimming, cycling at a moderate pace, light stretching, and walking. These activities are suitable for fasting and help maintain a targeted fitness routine while protecting health. Exercising during cooler times like early morning or after breaking the fast is advised.
- Proper sleep enhances workout performance, supports muscle recovery, and helps regulate appetite. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep a night, even if it means adjusting your routine.
- Fuel properly before and after workouts. The Suhoor meal should include slow-digesting carbohydrates and protein, while the Iftar meal focuses on lean protein and complex carbs.
- Timing workouts during fasting hours is crucial to avoid fatigue and dehydration. The best times to exercise are either before Suhoor or after Iftar. Exercising before Suhoor allows for immediate fueling up afterward, while post-Iftar workouts help take advantage of the energy boost from food.
- Avoid overeating during Iftar. Overeating can lead to digestive issues and sluggishness.
- What to avoid while fasting: Overeating, excessive caffeine consumption, engaging in intense workouts on an empty stomach, ignoring sleep, skipping Suhoor, not hydrating enough, focusing only on cardio, and neglecting strength training.
- Aim for moderate intensity during workouts and be mindful of the heat if exercising outdoors.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can maintain your fitness routine during Ramadan fasting in Dubai while ensuring your health and well-being. Stay consistent, stay hydrated, and enjoy a healthy and active Ramadan!
