Hundreds strut their superhero charms on Marina promenade

Dubai: The lawns of Skydive Dubai were abuzz as nearly a 1,000 people registered for the Superheroes Walkathon that began on Friday, in the latest chapter of the 30X30 Dubai Fitness Challenge. Thousands of other residents turned up to take part in the array of activities lined up for the day.

Scores of people dressed up as comic book superheroes, making for a riveting sight, were flagged off for a 3.2km walkathon around the Dubai Marina promenade even as hundreds of others lent the atmosphere a charge of pure adrenaline as they participated in the daylong fitness carnival which began at 8am and continued until 10pm.

Brimming with enthusiasm, Dubai residents took to a range of fun activities as toddlers, teens, mums, dads and even grandparents, were seen putting their best foot forward. Competitions such as boxing, football, headstands, aerobic classes and rope gymnastics offered ample opportunities to showcase physical strength proving that group exercise can create a collective energy burst that can help push one’s physical limits.

The two-hour superhero walkathon made for a delightful scene as residents got under the skin of their favourite superheroes from comic books and took to getting fit. The most popular superheroes seen getting into their stride were Superman, Batman, Spider-Man, Cat Woman and Wonder Woman. Dozens of similar looking superheroes of various kinds thronged the grounds, filling the scene with an infectious vitality.

John Colvin, wife Clarissa, kids Eden, Ryan, Ella, Cam and Cedar were in an absolute state of enjoyment playing superheroes: “We do this a lot at home and the walkathon was a fantastic idea to have fun and work out, all at the same time,” said Clarissa.

Paul Jensen, who takes fitness very seriously, was in full focus about his crouches and leaps, navigating non-existent webs. “I love Spider-Man and am a fitness freak. This theme brings out the best in me,” said Jensen.

T.S. Sayed, dressed as Wolverine, had his toddler daughter attired as Mini Mouse and son Shafi as Mickey Mouse, while wife Sophia chose to simply enjoy the fun. “We love to keep fit and could not miss all this fun for the family. The walk is doable and will be unforgettable for my children,” said Sophia.

Karim Mohammad, looking majestic in his Batman costume, stood towering like a Lone Ranger, posing for selfies with members of the public. ”I am big on fitness and body building. I absolutely love Batman and this walkathon is giving me a chance to bring the kid out in me. I love it. Just proves that fitness can be so much fun, especially when it’s done in a group activity like this.”

Kieran Line from Leeds, the UK, arrived in Dubai just a week ago and loves the fun under the sun. He broke the Guinness World Record for maximum Jumping Jacks in 30 seconds. He did 53 jumps breaking the previous record of 52.

“I am a brand new expatriate and am loving the place. I have always been interested in fitness and this challenge has made workouts a community activity. I love the atmosphere here and the enthusiasm,” said Line.