Practice some exercise after iftar
Fasting undoubtedly is a practice that rejuvenates the mind and body. Including moderate exercises, postiftar can add value to fasting during Ramadhan, particularly during the testing times of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ramadhan is an excellent opportunity to stand up and start healthy habits and maintain them. Fitness experts advise continuing with some physical exercises as there is absolutely no reason to stop practicing them in Ramadhan unless there are known medical conditions.
“Exercise wisely. It is recommended to do moderate exercises during the holy month in all cases,” says Hatim Abdulsalam, a religious scholar.
“But it should be at least an hour after meals so that the digestion is already done,” he added.
“Walking, jogging and aerobics are some modes of mild exercises that one can try out after breaking fast and they should be done moderately,” says Dr Mahmood al Rahbi, Head of Emergency Department at Al Nahda Hospital.
“We burn energy when we exercise during fasting. We rely on our body’s sugar and fat. However, this cannot provide immediate and continuous energy to our body during fasting and exercising. This may lead to fatigue and may have harmful effects on our heart,” adds Dr Al Rahbi.
“Exercises may be done after breaking the fast and drinking plenty of fluids to hydrate well and a light meal. After exercise, one can have the main meal,” says Dr Benny Panakkal, Medical Director of Badr al Samaa hospitals.
Athletes and fitness freaks have to adjust their exercise to suit fasting, and the focal point is moderation.
According to fitness experts, the moderation in exercises from a medical perspective is finding a balance between calories gained and consumed by controlling the intensity and timing of workouts.
MODERATE EXERCISES:
“While fasting, avoid getting into stress and consider indoor exercise at moderate temperature, as the temperature is high outside,” says Rabyab Sidhique, Gold’s Gym certified gym trainer.
“One should exercise wisely and be watchful of any new or unusual symptoms that appear during or after exercise. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor should you find any unusual symptom and know your chronic health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure and exercise according to your doctor’s advice,” adds Rabyab.