UAE Sports Day is more about fitness and health

When the buzzer goes off today for a number of events, the idea would be about participation, and not being at the top of the podium. Sure, winning is a heady feeling, but simply participating at the sports fairs across the country is certain to lift the spirits of people. Everyone is a winner. There’ll be plenty of activities, and lots of fun. The second edition of the National Sports Day on February 16 is the UAE’s way to nudge everyone to take little steps on the path of fitness. For a country that suffers high levels of obesity and related lifestyle diseases, it is an important national event. And more than that, the event is becoming a vital lever in bringing people of all backgrounds together to celebrate diversity. For the UAE, which is home to over 200 nationalities, the second edition follows a successful inaugural event that happened in Abu Dhabi in 2015. It not only nudged the residents to take up a sport, but also promoted the idea of a healthier lifestyle. This year, the event follows the directive of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, an accomplished sportsperson himself. He is one leader who truly understands that the benefits of participating and following sport.

Sports transcends culture and bring communities together. Research proves it challenges the cognitive limitations of the mind; inculcates organisational skills, and along the way teaches the qualities of selfdiscipline and leadership skills. Some studies also go on to prove that participating in sports activities discourages whining, and rewards self-discipline. It teaches self-control — qualities that have a more powerful effect than anything taught in the classroom. Besides, events like a National Sports Day is all about championing the inclusivity of people and showing that games can bring people together. Celebrated under the theme, Emirates Brings Us Together, the event is organsied as part of Gulf National Sports Week. Be a part of it.