Your Guide to the Dubai Fitness Challenge!
On Saturday, the annual Dubai Fitness Challenge began! For the seventh year in a row, the Dubai Fitness Challenge invites people of all ages to participate in the month-long series of sporting events.
Launched back in 2017 by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Fitness Challenge is all about promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among the residents. The challenge encourages individuals to commit 30 minutes of their day to exercise for the next 30 days, also known as the 30X30 challenge.
Thousands of residents around the city participate in the 30X30 Challenge each year, joining various activities including group workouts, sports events, and fitness classes. The Dubai Fitness Challenge has not only brought the Dubai community together, but it has encouraged a culture of fitness and well-being in the city.
This year, the event will last from October 28 to November 26 and will feature a huge selection of activities suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Participants can look forward to exciting challenges, expert-led fitness sessions, and specialized workshops.
Here is your complete guide to the motivating Dubai Fitness Challenge!
Source: Dubai Fitness Challenge
EVENTS
It wouldn't be called the Dubai Fitness Challenge without, of course, some challenging events. All these challenges are designed to push participants out of their comfort zone and encourage a healthier, more fit lifestyle.
Here are some of the DFC events taking place during this month!
Dubai South Ride
If you love cycling, this event is for you! The Dubai South Ride is an exciting DFC event where participants can cycle around the city. Starting at the Dubai South HQ building, you can choose between a 40 km or an 80 km route. After registering online, you'll receive an essential Race Pack, which includes your race bib and a cool t-shirt among other things. And when you're done with the challenge, you'll get a medal, a certificate, and some tasty snacks!
When: 5 November 2023
Where: Dubai South
Price: 95 AED
Adidas x Les Milles Guinness World Record Challenge
Dubai is known around the world for all its world records, but the ambitious city is always aiming for more. This time, as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, the city is planning to host the largest HIIT workout in the world. HIIT is a type of interval workout, where you start with a high-intensity workout and then go down to a slower, less intense activity. In collaboration with Adidas and Les Mills, Dubai residents and tourists can be a part of this historic fitness achievement!
When: 12 November 2023
Where: Museum of the Future
Price: FREE
Dubai Ride
Another fun adventure for the cyclists of Dubai! Conquer the streets of Downtown Dubai at the Dubai Ride event. You can choose between the 4 km route or the 12 km route along the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road. There are five starting points you can begin from, and as you cycle through the city you can see all the marvelous landmarks. The event is not only a great way to explore the city, but it's also an opportunity to join thousands of other fellow cyclists in a friendly competition.
When: 12 November 2023 from 6:15 AM to 7:45 AM
Where: Sheikh Zayed Road
Price: FREE
Dubai Stand-Up Paddle
Presented by RTA, the Stand Up Paddle (SUP) challenge is the perfect way to escape the city and enjoy some tranquil views. Taking place at the iconic Hatta Dam, this challenge is a one-of-a-kind event that combines adventure and relaxation. Participants will have the opportunity to paddle through the calm waters of the dam, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and a serene atmosphere. When you register online, you have the option to enroll in some training sessions, suited for every experience level.
When: 18 November 2023
Where: Hatta Dam
Price: FREE
The Dubai Run
By far the most iconic and most anticipated part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge is the annual Dubai Run. Initiated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event is one of the largest runs in the world! This year, it's expected that the event will break the 200,000 participant mark, making it the biggest run to date. The running route goes along the Sheikh Zayed Road, where you can choose between a 5 km route or a 10 km route. This exciting event is definitely something you don't want to miss!
When: 26 November 2023
Where: Sheikh Zayed Road
Price: FREE
CLASSES
All it takes is just 30 minutes! Countless gyms and wellness centres are offering some great deals in honour of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.
J Club Jumeirah
J Club by Jumeirah is one of the active supporters and collaborates with the annual Dubai Fitness Challenge. Members can take part in three different free activities, including yoga at sunrise and a scenic beach run. Each of these activities also gives you a gorgeous view of landmarks in the city, including the Museum of the Future and Burj Al Arab.
When:
- Outdoor HIIT: 6 November 2023 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM
- Sunrise Yoga: 16 November 2023 from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
- Beach Run: 24 November 2023 from 8:15 AM to 9:00 AM
Where: Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Price: FREE
Truth Yoga
Truth Yoga is all about conscious fitness. For the Dubai Fitness Challenge, the centre is collaborating with Sunset Mall to provide you with 30 days of free yoga sessions. These sessions are designed to help you achieve both physical and mental well-being through various yoga practices and even workshops. Truth Yoga's expert instructors will guide you in finding a balance between your mind and body.
When: Daily at 6:30 PM
Where: Sunset Mall
Price: FREE
UFC Gym
The UFC Gym is one of the more popular fitness facilities in the city. Known for its high-intensity workouts inspired by MMA fitness, the gym offers classes for all ages and abilities. For the 30X30 month, the UFC is offering a free 5-day pass for those looking to try their unique workout style. With a variety of classes to choose from, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and group classes, members can experience exciting MMA workout styles.
When: Daily from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Where: Multiple branches including JBR, Business Bay, and One Central
Price: FREE
FITNESS HUBS
If you're looking for more free classes and fitness events, then look no further than the dozens of fitness hubs all over the city. All these fitness hubs offer a wide range of classes, all equipped with the best facilities and experienced instructors.
Here are some of the fitness hubs you can visit!
Zabeel Ladies Club Fitness Hub
This month, the Zabeel Ladies Club is giving all the ladies access to a huge range of gym equipment. When you register, you get complimentary access to both the indoor and the outdoor areas of the club, where you can try out all the activities from their designated schedule. You can choose from Zumba, pilates, and boxing lessons.
DANUBE Sports World Fitness Hub
Located in Al Habtoor City, DANUBE Sports World is offering great deals for the DFC season. When you sign up, you can get 6 free classes every week until November 25th. These free gym classes range from BoxFit and XFit yoga and Zumba. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced trainers, DANUBE Sports World ensures a dynamic and engaging workout experience for all its members.
Dubai International Financial Center – Gate Avenue Fitness Hub
At Gate Avenue in DIFC, there are numerous workout studios and fitness centres, all offering a huge range of exercises. All these centres, including F45 and Fitness First, are offering over 50 free fitness classes during the Dubai Fitness Challenge. From boxing and lifting to yoga and pilates, you can easily find an exercise that suits you and your abilities.
Kite Beach Fitness Village
The Kite Beach Fitness Village is a must-visit destination during this month-long challenge. Covering a large part of the iconic Kite Beach, this fitness village holds over 24 different fitness zones and offers a huge range of free classes to take part in. You can find different sports courts, yoga and meditation spots, and even a 40m tall water obstacle course! The Kite Beach Fitness Village is definitely among the most exciting things happening during this DFC season.
The Beach Fitness Hub
At The Beach in JBR, you can find a mix of fitness and fun. Every Friday and Saturday, you can take part in 6 hours of some excitement and fun. The venue will host 4 classes per day, all of which include Zumba, Boxing, and even Trampoline Fitness. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can join in on the free classes and enjoy dozens of activities.
So grab your running shoes and your water bottle and get ready for an exciting month of fitness!