Summer in the UAE means huge amounts of time spent indoors. For many, this may seem like a deterrent in either keeping up with or starting a fitness routine. That, however, couldn’t be further from the truth. We round up some of the best indoor fitness activities to keep you busy this summer. Whether you’re looking for solo or group activities, if you want to focus on building muscle or burning fat, or just add a new activity to your repertoire, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Indoor rock climbing
Rock climbing is an adrenaline-pumping activity that requires a strong body and mind. Arm strength, while it certainly helps, is surprisingly not the main source of your climbing power. Instead, a strong core, legs and hand grip will be what gets you up the wall. You'll also need a healthy dose of concentration and confidence – one slip or moment of self-doubt could easily land you back down at the bottom. Indoor rock climbing is an amazing full-body workout. If you're heading to a climbing gym for the first time, it's best to call ahead to find out if they offer in-house belayers – an individual who will manage the rope that prevents you from falling. Some gyms offer belaying classes so that members will eventually qualify to belay one another. Indoor rock climbing gyms typically offer gear to rent. If, however, you prefer your own, consider investing in a pair of shoes, a harness and chalk bag. These items can be purchased at most outdoor stores including Adventure HQ (www.adventurehq.ae). Shoes will be the most costly item on your equipment list, starting from Dh365. Those living in Dubai will find several climbing gyms, including Dorell Sports (dorellsports.com), where day passes start from Dh60 per person. Abu Dhabi, unfortunately, has fewer options, though Paris-Sorbonne University, Abu Dhabi (www.sorbonne.ae) offers memberships on a semi-annual basis.
Dubai Sports World
Those who love outdoor sports will be able to continue playing through the summer months at Dubai Sports World (www.dubaisportsworld.ae). Visitors will find just about any sport and fitness activity, from basketball to football, athletics to cricket, and even fitness classes such as boot camp and personal training. Activities for children are also available. New for 2015 is the Against GraviTi Parkour and Streetworkout area, Wire World Park – a circuit of wooden platforms installed and secured on a four-metre-high pole base – and GX classes run by Fitness First. Those looking to attend should come in sports gear appropriate for the activities they intend on participating in. Located at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Dubai Sports World will run from June 21 to August 29. Admission is free for adults and children. However, some activities have a fee, such as using the football pitches and the Skate & BMX park and participating in GX classes. For more details and rates, visit dubaisportsworld.ae.
Squash
The weather may have become too hot to play tennis outside, but for those looking to take part in a similar sport – one that requires two players, the use of a racket and decent hand-eye coordination – why not try squash? A fast-paced version of tennis, squash is played in a four-walled court with a small, hollow rubber ball. Each player must alternate in hitting the ball with their racket and hit the ball on to the playable surfaces of the four walls of the court. Squash, much like tennis, is not only fun but also a great workout. The game builds upper-body strength, increases stamina and can burn approximately 600 to 1,000 calories in a one-hour session, making it an ideal cardiovascular activity. The equipment required is minimal – a good pair of trainers, squash racket and moisture-wicking clothing – and can be purchased in most sporting goods stores around the UAE. Those living in the capital can book one of two air-conditioned squash courts at Abu Dhabi Golf Club (www.adgolfclub.com). Rates for non-members start from Dh100 per hour. Dubai residents will find places like Dubai Golf Club (www.dubaigolf.com) offer indoor, air-conditioned courts available for booking.
Trampolining
Those after a great indoor cardio workout – but cringe at the very thought of spending more than 10 minutes on the treadmill – should try trampolining. A study carried out by Nasa found that 10 minutes of bouncing on a trampoline is a better cardiovascular workout than 33 minutes of running. Not to mention it's far gentler on weight-bearing joints than running and jogging. An improved cardiovascular system isn't the only thing you'll gain from bouncing, though. A sense of awareness of your body as you bounce is needed, requiring – and eventually improving – both your balance and coordination. Not only is it fun, but it's also a great stress reliever. As the activity can be done on your own and with friends, this is the perfect way to unwind after a stressful week at the office. Luckily, equipment needs are minimal, only requiring workout clothes – shorts, T-shirts and trousers. Bounce – the indoor trampolining gym (www.bounce.ae) – is only available in Dubai but is launching soon at Marina Mall, in Abu Dhabi. General admission starts from Dh80 per session, per person.
Ice skating
If you love winter sports – or just prefer working out in cooler temperatures – ice skating will make for a great indoor activity this summer. The sport is relatively easy on the joints and works smaller stabiliser muscles – such as those around your knees, ankles and hips – that we don't use every day. Strengthening these muscles will, in turn, help with other activities like running and yoga. Ice skating is also a wonderful way to torch calories. A person can burn anywhere from 380 to 630 calories an hour, depending on their weight and the speed at which they're skating. Equipment required depends on how serious you are about taking up ice skating. For those just looking to dabble in the sport, most skating rinks will provide skates. If, however, you're planning on adding this to your weekly workout regime, we suggest investing in a pair of your own. Skates can be purchased at The Skate Shop, conveniently located next to the Dubai Ice Rink (www.dubaiicerink.com) at the Dubai Mall. While they don't run cheap, investing in your own skates will mean better support for your feet and ankles. Those in Abu Dhabi can take to the ice at Zayed Sports City (zsc.ae). Prices start from Dh45 per session, with annual membership available for Dh1,500 and private lessons from Dh110 per session.
