The Wellness Centre at Rawdat Al Khail Health Centre has conducted an awareness event for gym instructors and health coaches to provide guidance on identifying possible ways of continuing their usual exercise programme, healthy eating, sleep, and self-care during Ramadan.
Dr Sarah Rashid Musa, wellness in-charge at Rawdat Al Khail Health Centre and consultant community medicine, stated: “Fasting can have effect on different variables including nutrition, hydration, and sleep patterns. It also reduces alertness, motivation, physical and psychomotor performance, therefore it is important to plan a holistic approach to meet the need for each individual including biological, psychological, cognitive and behavioural and not be “one -size-fits-it”.
Patients were made aware of the importance of maintaining their physical activity during Ramadan to enhance their weight control, physical and muscular fitness, mental health, help to control medical conditions and increase energy level. Gym instructors explained the precautions to be taken while practicing physical activities during the month of Ramadan.
“One of the biggest challenges of fasting is staying hydrated,” Dr Sarah added. “It is essential to drink plenty of water before sunrise and keep your body hydrated, avoid sugary drinks like sodas and energy drinks. Getting enough sleep is also essential to help the body recharge and recover aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and try to go to bed early to maintain the sleep cycle. To help improve quality of sleep, avoid caffeine and other stimulants before bedtime. Also to consider naps and schedule times to rest to avoid fatigue.”
Dr Sarah Rashid Musa
