How Sheikh Hamdan changed our lives in 2017

Dubai - He got people moving and sparked off a fitness movement in the country while supporting noble causes

Who inspired you to feel better and fitter this year? Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum got Dubai moving out of its comfort zone. He was active and connected with the people of the UAE. They listened and took up fitness as a lifestyle after he urged residents to exercise for 30 minutes daily for 30 days. People were motivated and they upped their physical goals. Parks and beaches were teeming with joggers, yoga enthusiasts and athletes in training. The 30x30 Dubai Fitness Challenge was an unprecedented success. #Dubai30x30 ruled the social sphere from October 20 to November 18. The country had never seen anything like it, and the Crown Prince made 2017 about living healthier lives.
It didn't stop there. Sheikh Hamdan, last month, asked for suggestions from UAE residents on what volunteering activities he should undertake. "Dubai, I heard you," wrote @faz3, as he posted with pictures of his experience of spending a day collecting waste from the bottom of the sea. "Thank you for your incredible contributions," he said. "Making a difference to the environment starts with small changes we make in our everyday lives." 
Thanks to his efforts, Dubai hopes to make waves as a healthy and clean metropolis as it innovates for the future.
- nivriti@khaleejtimes.com

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• Dubai