STEP IN RIGHT DIRECTION

Now that the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) is putting a spotlight on physical education in schools, sedentary lifestyles will start taking a back seat, Jennifer Chalouhi, a personal trainer in Dubai told Khaleej Times.

“The underlining message is health and well-being first and foremost for these young minds. They are the ones that need it most in this fast paced, dynamic world.”

And Marcus Smith, fitness coach and athlete, agreed saying it’s a step in the right direction as far as health is concerned.

“It’s simple. As a population, we move less than ever before and that is killing us. We have to move more and teach kids from an early age.”

Looking at the benefits of promoting sports excellence in schools, Smith said “physical activity has been proven to boost mental focus and productivity”. And Chalouhi said it needs to become regular practice. So where better to promote this but in schools.

“A child’s mind and body needs to be activated, enlightened and challenged, not just mentally and academically, but physically too in order to lessen stress, anxiety, peer pressure and even obesity and diabetes during their most critical years.”

But this initiative will only gain more momentum if parents are on board too, Smith said.

“Inactivity and obesity is not only rising in kids but in adults too. Parents need to be responsible, initiate the changes and stop blaming things on school systems etc. It can all start at home.”