Getting Fit at 50: Why it’s so Important

This year, the UAE is celebrating its 50th Jubilee and with the Dubai Fitness Challenge launching on October 29, there has never been a better time to get fit, and enjoy your 50s, 60, 70s and beyond.

50 is the new 40

Most of us have heard the phrase: “50 is the new 40”, and in fact, there is actually scientific evidence to support this. According to an in-depth scientific study by the Jama Network Open, getting fit in your 50s can be as beneficial as starting early, and can have a transformative effect on your overall health, which can last for decades. And in honor of the UAE’s 50th Jubilee this year, the Dubai Fitness Challenge offers several impactful ways you can get fit in your fifth decade.

Combat muscle loss

A key difference between getting in shape in your 20s, compared to doing so in your 50s is that later in life you need to take great care of your muscles. Resistance training is a great way to make sure you are supporting your muscle health, bones and joints while getting in shape. This can include anything from Pilates, to exercising with dumbbells, kettlebells and barbells at the gym. Be sure to consult with a professional first, so they can ensure you are using the equipment correctly – as bad posture or the wrong move can do far more harm than good. There are also thousands of free fitness classes for Dubai Fitness Challenge, so it’s a great opportunity to find the type of class you enjoy.

Maintain a record of your diet

A healthy lifestyle starts in the kitchen and in order to make meaningful change, the best way to start is to make a record of what is being consumed on a daily basis, noting down the nutritional content in each meal. Try doing this for two weeks, and also make a note of how you feel after each meal—sluggish, energetic, or refreshed. Also, as we get older, our metabolism changes. We don’t need to consume as many calories as we did when we were younger, and it can also affect our ability to digest certain foods. It’s also important when you are trying to strengthen muscle mass to make sure to eat enough protein. Once you’ve taken an in-depth look at what you are eating, book an appointment with a recognized dietician, nutritionist or doctor to discuss your current diet, and any changes you should make to assist your health goals.

About Dubai fitness challenge

The Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is an initiative of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The Challenge was created to support His Highness’ vision of making Dubai one of the most active cities in the world. Now in its fifth annual edition – with more opportunities than ever to get involved – Dubai Fitness Challenge brings friends, families, colleagues and communities together to improve their health and wellbeing with 30 days of fun and fitness. Featuring a packed calendar of activities and events across the city including Dubai Run and Dubai Ride, this year’s Challenge runs from October 29 to November 27, 2021. H

For fitness inspiration, advice, virtual classes and fun ways to find your 30 x 30, visit www.dubaifitnesschallenge.com