More than 220 people, wearing bright orange t-shirts and cycling to the beat of loud music, participated in the launch of Cycle for Health UAE.
The initiative from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi kicked off on Wednesday, October 26, with a series of outdoor stationary cycling classes and will include community cycling events in the coming months.
Cycling is one of the fastest growing participation sports in the UAE and there are plans to double the number of walkways and bike trails in Abu Dhabi by 2020. There are also several community initiatives, such as The National’s annual #CycleToWorkUAE, that encourage the activity as well as an increasing number of amateur and professional cycling events, including the recent Abu Dhabi Tour.
“Increased physical activity is one of the most effective ways of preventing some of the health conditions we commonly see at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and obesity. Cycling is an easy, enjoyable way to incorporate more exercise into your lifestyle and improve overall wellbeing. In the coming months, we look forward to organising more cycling opportunities for the community to enjoy,” says Dr Tomislav Mihaljevic, CEO, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
“As a healthcare provider, our role extends beyond providing clinical care. We have a responsibility within our community to promote overall wellness, and help people understand how to take better care of their health. Through Cycle for Health UAE – which also provides designated, safe places within Abu Dhabi for people to cycle – we encourage the community to consider getting on a bicycle for both health and fun.”
As part of Cycle for Health UAE, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides complimentary bikes and helmets at Yas Marina Circuit every Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday night for StartYAS, TrainYAS and GoYAS.
For updates and more information, follow #CycleForHealthUAE on social media.
healthyliving@thenational.ae
