Don’t have time to hit up a gym? Here are five cardio exercises to try that are both free and fun.
*Based on a person weighing 80 kilograms. Source: myfitnesspal*
Walking is low-impact and easy for most people. Walk around your neighbourhood, head to one of the many parks, or if the weather is hot, make your way to your favourite mall and do a spot of window-shopping as well. Brisk walking at a pace of 6.5 kilometres per hour can burn up to 400 calories*.
Swimming is another excellent cardio exercise that is low-impact. If you don't have a pool at your apartment or villa, why not visit one of the public beaches. You'll top up your vitamin D levels too. An hour of light to moderate swimming can burn 560 calories* .
Cycling is easy on the joints and can be a lot of fun. There are a number of safe cycling areas in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, such as Al Qudra, Nad Al Sheba and Dubai Autodrome in Dubai and Yas Marina Circuit and the Corniche in Abu Dhabi. Moderate cycling at 20kph can burn 640 calories in an hour*.
Running is a popular activity in the UAE and with all of the fun runs, marathons and running clubs, it can be a social or serious hobby. Mix up your running routine to keep things interesting. An hour of running at a moderate pace of 8.5kph can burn 800 calories*.
Roller blading is a great family activity that is so much fun you won't even notice that you're getting a good workout too. Look for parks and quiet pathways with a smooth surface. You could burn up to 960 calories in an hour of roller blading*.