Ramadan Feature ATRC Keeps Active, Fit, and Healthy during Ramadan

As the Muslim world observes the ritual fasting from dawn to dusk during the Holy Month of Ramadan, organizations in the UAE are redoubling their efforts to ensure their workforces remain fit, healthy, and energized – particularly after the extended period of health challenges the world confronted during COVID-19. 

Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), the entity shaping the advanced research and development (R&D) ecosystem in the UAE capital, launched its inaugural ATRC Ramadan Football Tournament. After an overwhelming response, it is set to become an annual fixture in the company calendar. ATRC has also brought back its weekly Yoga and meditation classes to ensure health remains a top-of-mind goal for all its employees.

Throughout Ramadan, keeping active, remaining hydrated and eating small nutritious meals between iftar and suhoor are undoubtedly key to ensuring you have the stamina to weather the next day of fasting. The hydration rule is a no-brainer, particularly when you consider that the human body comprises over 60% water. Dehydration is a likely fallout of fasting that you need to guard against as the amount of water in the body continues to ebb and flow throughout the day.

On average, adults need two to three liters of water each day. Unsweetened juices or milk are wholesome low-calorie alternatives. As caffeine in coffee, tea and soda may lead to dehydration, it is best to limit your intake of these beverages during the non-fasting hours. Making healthy food choices when breaking your fast, such as a handful of roasted nuts rather than ready-to-eat processed crackers or biscuits is key. 

However, just as important as your diet, if not more, is exercise. While a period of fasting can make you lethargic and dull, it is important to factor in some walking, light stretches and low impact workouts where possible. Participating in a team sport or daily activity you enjoy could be a great way to build physical and mental endurance.

The football tournament is in line with the efforts of ATRC’s senior management to foster a high-performance culture and encourage a spirit of healthy competition among its researchers, scientists, and multinational R&D community. 

His Excellency Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General, ATRC, said the focus on health and wellness since the COVID-19 pandemic first broke out, has compelled companies in the UAE to prioritize employee wellbeing and encourage them to lead healthier lifestyles.

“Since the early days of our federation, the UAE leadership has always prioritized and hosted sports competitions during the Holy Month to keep people productive, healthy, and motivated. Sports has been a unifying force for the good and we are confident that this initiative too is set to ensure greater cohesiveness and integration across work streams and teams in the upcoming months, and ultimately, to improved productivity,” he noted.

The organization-wide sporting event has helped boost engagement and productivity levels during the Holy Month and witnessed successful teams in each round facing off one another throughout Ramadan with the semi-final and final rounds taking place on April 18 at Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi. With professional referees overseeing the tournament to the best international standards, the teams were in fine form making it an exhilarating fight to the finish.

Dr Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Researcher of Technology Innovation Institute’s Directed Energy Research Center, said he believed the tournament has helped boost energy levels and motivation among his colleagues, in addition to highlighting the importance of collaboration and teamwork. 

“Getting together on the football pitch after the workday has quickly become a tradition that we all looked forward to. In the past weeks, this tournament has given us the opportunity to really come together as a community in line with the essence of Ramadan.  Our team spirit is at an all-time high and we are hoping to spread the positive spirit across the entire organization, while also focusing on health and well-being,” he said.