Bored with working out indoors? Take to the water instead. With its gorgeous coastline, beaches, lakes and pools, the UAE is one of the leading destinations for water sports enthusiasts around the world. Ditch the dumbbells and try one of these water workouts.
Wakeboarding
If you’re new to wakeboarding, it might appear tricky at first. But there is no need to worry as there are plenty of wakeboarding and wakesurfing camps in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that will help you get started. The traditional version of the activity involves surfing on a short, wide board while being towed by a motorboat, similar to water-skiing. It is a brilliant way to cool off in the heat while burning calories.
On the flip side, learning how to wakeboard within a short time is both challenging and physically tiring. If you’re an amateur, you can expect to leave your first few sessions with aching legs and arms. You might also get used to swallowing saltwater while learning to maintain your balance.
Calories burned: 300+ per hour
Website(s): www.xtremewakeuae.com, www.wake-evolution.com
Contact details:
- Phone number: + 971 563423012
Email: info@xtremewakeuae.com
- Phone number: +971 501545385
Email: info@wake-evolution.com
Aqua Spinning
Aqua spinning, also known as aqua cycling, is an innovative fitness technique that combines the buoyancy and resistance of water with the cardiovascular benefits of cycling. In aqua spinning, a stationary equipment resembling a bicycle is placed in a pool. The top half of the rider’s body stays above the water as they pedal against the resistance. This helps to boost blood circulation, reduce muscle soreness and flush away the toxins in the body.
In Dubai, Fairmont The Palm has recently introduced Aquaspin classes - a total of nine per week. In addition to the existing benefits, Fairmont The Palm’s Aquaspin classes are gentle on the joints, making it ideal for those who are experiencing joint pains or post-operation recovery. The classes are open to everyone above eighteen years of age.
Calories burned: 800 per session
Website: www.fairmont.com/palm
Contact details:
- Phone number: +971 44573330
Email: palm.healthclub@fairmont.com
Stand-up Paddling
Stand-up paddling is a gentler variation of surfing that originated in Hawaii. Before it became a sport, stand-up paddling had practical value - the natives used it as a means to travel from island to island. From Hawaii to the UAE, stand-up paddling has become a popular water sport that engages the abs and core, and is safe for all age groups.
Unlike surfing which relies on waves, stand-up paddlers use their paddles to propel their boards over the water. Stand-up paddling requires specialised clothing, gear and equipment depending on the temperature and water conditions. Popular places include the Kite Beach in Dubai, the Palm Island in Jumeirah, and Sunset Beach off Jumeirah Beach Road.
Calories burned: 320+ per hour
Website(s): www.surfingdubai.com, www.ignitesurface.com
Contact details:
- Phone number: +971 505043020
Email: info@surfingdubai.com
- Phone number: 04 4562482
Email: info@ignitesurface.com
Dragon Boat Racing
Dragon boat racing has come a long way from its roots in Chinese folk rituals to become one of the premier water sports of the UAE. Dragon boats are essentially human-powered watercraft; a single team consists of twenty-one paddlers who work together to reach the finishing line in the fastest time.
As a competitive sport, dragon boat racing improves teamwork, timing, strength and endurance. It also delivers a great upper body workout and targets the core muscles in the abs and legs. Fiercely competitive and thrilling, this activity is right up your alley if you’re looking for the ultimate team challenge.
Calories burned: 300+ per hour
Website: www.dubaiflyingdragons.com
Contact details:
- Phone number: 056 9824947
Email: info@dubaiflyingdragons.com
Scuba Diving
From the Arabian Gulf near Dubai and Abu Dhabi, to Dibba Island in Fujairah, to Musandam nearby Oman, the UAE has a diverse variety of locations with plenty to see for scuba divers including wrecks, corals, and marine life. The climate makes it possible to scuba dive all the year round as the seas are at a comfortable temperature for most of the year.
The UAE is a great place for all levels of divers from novices to certified professionals. Most of the sites are relatively shallow and serve as safe training grounds for inexperienced divers. Scuba diving is not recommended for people with medical issues.
Calories burned: 600 per hour
Website: www.padi.com
Contact details:
- Email: customerservices.emea@padi.com
Take a break from sweating it out in the gym. Cool off this summer with some exciting water workouts.