(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Many people think it is not advisable to exercise during Ramadan but health experts say it should be continued as consumption of food high in sugar and fat content during iftar with no workout can lead to weight gain.
According to Dr Badriya al Mahrooqy director Amerat Health Centre Ministry of Health walking is the best form of exercise particularly during Ramadan as most people tend to eat food high in sugar and fat.
'Those who exercise regularly should continue with the regimen but it shouldn't be strenuous. Walking is the best form of exercise and Ramadan should be the starting point for those who still haven't taken working out seriously' she said.
However Dr Badriya advises against walking before iftar. 'One needs to be careful about the timing and type of exercise during Ramadan. Exercising without having food or liquids for a long period of time is not advisable. One needs to know one's body well before starting with a workout regimen' she added.
For Obaid al Khaldi no day goes without a walk. In Ramadan too he walks a little less but never misses the exercise. 'On normal days I walk 12km in the mornings. But during Ramadan I walk less because I fast' he said.
Dr Bashir A P senior internist and diabetologist Badr al Samaa Hospital in Ruwi recommends brisk walking as he says it helps refresh the mind and increases blood circulation. 'The best time to walk during Ramadan is after the Taraweh prayers. People should eat little for better results but avoid heavy and strenuous exercises and weight-lifting on an empty stomach. Drinking lots of water is also important' he said.
To encourage walking Muscat Municipality has built pavements along beaches and in public parks. Qurum Natural Park Riyam Park Amerat Park and Sarooj have walkways too. This is in addition to dedicated walking lanes in residential areas.
'Muscat Municipality has built many walking lanes in the city. Parks and gardens are open from 4pm to 2am during the holy month' said an official from the Muscat Municipality. Fitness enthusiast Samya Khalaf says that she walks more during the holy month. 'I usually walk for 4km but during Ramadan I add a kilometre. I walk after the evening prayers.'
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