To read more about when you should be excercising and other tips, see here
1. Contact sports
Contact sports are a good way to maintain your general fitness level during Ramadan, and for overall conditioning. Such sports can include football, basketball, volleyball, and tennis, among others. Any contact sport requires a high level of energy as it can be an intense workout for the body. During Ramadan it is advised to play such sports a few hours after ending your fast. During fasting hours, the body’s glycogen levels are already depleted so it cannot perform at the required intensity.
2. Yoga
Yoga is a great form of physical and mental exercise for the whole body. It can be classed as a lighter form of exercise that does not require too much cardiovascular demand on your body. During Ramadan, yoga can be practised during the day without exerting too much effort, however, it is advised that all exercise should be carried out after iftar, once the body is nourished and hydrated.
3. Aerobics/Dance exercises
Aerobics and dance exercises such as Zumba and body jam can improve one’s cardiovascular endurance while burning a lot of calories. Both forms of exercise depend on one’s fitness levels, and can be more strenuous for those who are not regularly active. Such exercises should be carried out after iftar during Ramadan, as they are likely to elevate heart rate and body temperature. The body cools down by opening the sweat glands, and sweating. Being hydrated before starting such exercises is essential.
4. Pilates
Pilates is a great way to maintain your core strength during Ramadan. Similar to Yoga, pilates will not significantly elevate your heart rate or core temperature to a high level where you will feel dehydrated. While it could be practised during fasting hours, it is recommended to practise a session of pilates after iftar as many times a week as possible.
Input by Trevor Flowers, Floor Manager at Fitness First Jumeirah Beach Park Plaza
