Dubai: Nabil Al Busaidi, the first Arab to reach the magnetic North Pole earlier this year, dragging 50 kilogrammes of equipment through the biting cold, said a simple thing like walking up the stairs daily could keep you fit.
"But not many people will do that," he said, adding that a lot of people in the Middle East have medical issues and are obese.
He was the first to sign a "Pledge to Good Health", a campaign at the Arabian Centre Mall in Mirdiff, which has been launched to get more people active.
VLCC, a fitness group, has initiated the campaign which will culminate in a cyclethon starting from Jumeirah Beach Park on December 18.
Those who do not own a bicycle can purchase one at the venue for a discount, said Praful Dwivedi, business head of the group.
He said obesity figures in the UAE were "alarming", because it was not only adults, but children who were overweight due to lifestyle and improper diet.
Motivation
Al Busaidi, who has been dubbed the "Sultan of Snow", walked 650 kilometres from Canada to the Magnetic North Pole.
"We walked 12 hours every day," said the Omani.
"My motivation was to be a role model for Arab youth and present a positive image of Muslims."
The mall will open early for those who have signed the pledge and plan to come for check-ups, exercise under supervision, get dietary advice and lifestyle tips.
"A health bazaar will be created at the mall," said Sunil Bhardwaj, senior VP of the centre.
"The food court will offer a green health menu," he added.
The Group plans to get more malls involved in the campaign.
