UAE: People must focus on physical activity in post-Covid era – News

International delegates gather at Abu Dhabi Congress to discuss health and wellbeing

Dr. Mumtaz Meeran, ADPHC’s Public Health Specialist. – Photos provided

As Covid-19 restrictions ease and gradually return to normal, now is the right time to promote physical activity and health as a way of life, said an expert from the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC).

The 9th International Society for Physical Activity and Health (ISPAH) Congress – the largest event of its kind, held for the first time in the Middle East, is currently taking place in Abu Dhabi. Under the theme “Making Every Action Count”, the congress brought together key policy makers, health regulators, experts, academics and doctors for a wide range of workshops and workshops and a series of events for community members Fitness classes and games, take part.

ADPHC’s public health expert, Dr Mumtaz Meeran, said the timing of the congress was well aligned with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions and underscored the need to focus on individual health and wellbeing.

“One of the most important reasons for having an in-person conference now is that we are just coming out of the pandemic, all the restrictions have been lifted and life is back to normal. A lot of international delegates are here. They are really happy that this is an in-person event. Last time The conference in Vancouver, Canada is held virtually. This event provides an opportunity to network, meet and collaborate in person.”

Dr Mumtaz stressed that ADPHC has played a vital role in the fight against Covid-19.

“All restrictions are in place to ensure the health and well-being of the population. As such, in collaboration with our strategic stakeholders, Abu Dhabi has consistently been rated as one of the best countries in the world to respond to the pandemic. ADPHC and Abu Dhabi All the steps the government has taken to get life back to normal have contributed to the status quo and the format of this Congress.”

Held until Wednesday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, community members can take part in football games, yoga, Zumba classes and the “Ring the Bell Challenge”, which will be donated to the Reach campaign, which aims to end neglected tropical diseases. Additionally, people can join the “Billion Steps” challenge launched last month.

“Unlike in the past, this convention is also open to the community. The idea is to add value to the Abu Dhabi community. Because of the pandemic and many restrictions, people can’t really go out for physical activity etc. Now, Congress is convened when restrictions are lifted, Promoting physical activity is very consistent. Also, for the first time, people are not wearing masks. They can come and enjoy. We want to leave a legacy that inspires them to continue physical activity in their everyday lives,” Dr. Mumtaz added.

The ADPHC is the first dedicated centre in the region to protect the physical, psychological and social well-being of the Abu Dhabi population through public awareness and preventive healthcare.