The eighth edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) has concluded in record-breaking fashion with the highest number of participants ever taking part in the 30-day calendar of activities and events.
Its grand finale flagship event, Dubai Run presented by Mai Dubai, also broke records with 278,000 runners taking part on Sunday 24th November, cementing its status as the world’s biggest community fun run. Led by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the event featured a surprise appearance by international R&B star Jason Derulo. Former Paralympian swimmer Jessica Smith, ex-professional basketball player Fadi El Khatib, and Arsenal football legend Bacary Sagna, also participated, adding star power to the record-breaking occasion. The other flagship events also attracted record participation: Dubai Ride presented by DP World with 37,130 participants, and Dubai Stand-Up Paddle presented by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) with 2,330 participants.
Starting on Saturday 26th October, the city-wide Dubai Fitness Challenge brought together fitness enthusiasts of all ages, backgrounds and sporting abilities to embrace an active lifestyle by committing to 30 minutes of daily exercise for 30 days. The month-long calendar of free events, activations and activities is central to Dubai’s mission to become one of the most active cities in the world. This year’s initiative was more inclusive and accessible than ever, with numbers far exceeding those of DFC 2023. Dubai is the only city in the world offering a fitness activation of this scale, entirely open and free for all, helping to create a fitter future.
The full impact of the initiative on its people echoes long after the 30 days are over. Since its inception in 2017, more than 10 million residents and visitors have participated in DFC, making the most of the 30 x 30 challenge to kickstart healthier habits, boost motivation and connect with their communities.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), taking part in physical activity provides significant physical and mental health benefits. Regular exercise significantly reduces stress and enhances mood, contributing to a happier, more vibrant society, and DFC’s long-term positive impact is already being felt. According to DFC data, participants have seen improvements in their physical and mental health, with 18% reporting improved fitness, 15% seeing improvement in their psychological well-being and 14% enjoying better self-esteem and less anxiety. The results are even more compelling when it comes to positively impacting sleep patterns, with more than four in five people (83%) saying that taking part in the Challenge improved their sleeping habits.
GUESTS:
- Shahab Shayan, Regional Director Asia Pacific International Operations, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
About Dubai Fitness Challenge
An initiative of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) was created to support His Highness’ vision of making Dubai one of the most active cities in the world. A gateway to a healthier, more active lifestyle, this eighth edition of DFC offered an action-packed calendar of sporting events and activities, bringing friends, families, visitors, colleagues, and communities together as they committed to 30 minutes of exercise for 30 consecutive days. Featuring flagship events, Dubai Run, Dubai Ride and Dubai Stand Up Paddle, this year’s Challenge ran from Saturday 26 October to Sunday 24 November 2024.
For more information and to get inspired for next year’s challenge, please check out our socials and visit www.dubaifitnesschallenge.com.
ENDS
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GV: Dubai Run, presented by Mai Dubai
Interview: Jessica Smith, Former Paralympian swimmer
Interview: Bacary Sagna, Arsenal football legend
GV: Dubai Ride, presented by DP World
GV: DP World Kite Beach 30x30 Fitness villages
Dubai Stand Up Paddle, presented by RTA
Interview: Alreem Alredha, Manager, Leisure Events and Festivals at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism
26 November 2024
