Stay Fit While You Fast
We know that it sounds nearly impossible to keep your fitness on point while fasting this Ramadan, but we speak to local experts who tell us how to do it!
Ramadan has officially started. And while the Holy Month makes us question how we consume and what we spend our time and money on, it also can be physically strenuous. Many of us don’t get the hang of Ramadan eating for a while. When we abstain from food or drink all day, we break our fast by eating too much food and worse still by not engaging in any physical activity. Not great for our health.
To many, engaging in any physical activity to stay fit in Ramadan seems ludicrous. In fact, to some it’s impossible. But we can’t stress how important it is to stay fit and active during Ramadan.
Just in case you’re one of those people who think that it can’t be done, we’ve done all the work for you and found a Dubai based challenge you can take part in, have tips for you to stay health this Ramadan and spoke to three fitness experts who share their advice on how to stay fit during the Holy Month.
Here are top ten tips to stay healthy during the Holy Month
1. Reduce your caffeine intake. Try and cut out caffeinated drinks when breaking your fast, as they can dehydrate you.
2. Avoid salty and spicy foods. These ingredients can make your body retain water and cause you to be thirstier.
3. Drink plenty of fluids after you break your fast to keep your body as hydrated as possible.
4. Regulate your sleep patterns. Try and maintain a routine so that you are waking and sleeping at the same time every day.
5. Plan when and what you are going to eat, ensuring a balance of dishes that are fresh and containing necessary proteins, carbohydrates and vitamins.
6. Contrary to popular belief, light exercise such as yoga can keep your body and mind energised during Ramadan and helps to regulate blood pressure.
7. Cut out smoking. Ramadan could be a good opportunity to consider giving up altogether.
8. Calm your mind. Fasting can cause irritability, so practice being more patient and understanding to others. Mindfulness exercises can help you to think more positively.
9. Arrange things in advance. It’s important to spend more quality time with family and friends during the Holy Month, so make sure your diary is well thought out.
10. Avoid high-sugar food items such as sweets, candies and chocolates. Instead turn to the natural sugars found in dates, Ramadan’s most popular food item.
Tips provided by Banyan Tree Residences