More than 1.9 billion adults under the age of 18 and above were overweight. Out of this figure, over 650 million are categorised as obese according to the World Health Organisation.
To help counter the problem, Bareen International Hospital has launched a campaign encouraging the public to engage in even the simplest of exercise.
The 30-day take the stairs challenge is asking people to use the stairs instead of taking elevators to get to their workplaces and homes.
As an added modern twist, participants are requested to post image of their climbing feat on social media and using the #TakeTheStairs hashtag.
“With statistics showing 10% of people in the world are obese, and the UAE doubles that world average, people are putting themselves at higher risk of heath complications like type 2 diabetes and heart diseases,” said Dr Zaqui Ladha, the hospital’s consultant – bariatric and general surgery.
“In the world that we live in, many of us lead sedentary lifestyles, where we spend a lot of time in our cars and at our desks.
“We are excited to launch our #TakeTheStairs challenge, and encourage people to make small changes to be more active in the long-term.”
“With so many high-rise buildings in the UAE, it is often easier to take the lifts. But where possible, we are encouraging people to take the stairs – even if it is only for a few floors.
“Even a small amount of exercise that helps to raise the heart rate will make a difference to fitness levels for every person. Whether you are six or 60, we hope that people will join and pledge to take the stairs.”
0 Comments