Struggling with weight? Find motivation to get fit at Dubai Fitness Challenge

Dubai - Some residents who have been struggling with their weight, plan on changing for the better through this challenge.

A Filipina resident in Dubai has been struggling with her weight for years now, which took a huge toll on her confidence and self esteem. However, she wants to turn over a new leaf with the newfound motivation she has received from the 30x30 Dubai Fitness Challenge.
Dez, 42, was one of the many residents who turned up at Safa Park for the group exercises that are part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.
Three residents, who have been struggling with their weight for years, opened up to Khaleej Times on their battle with their health and how they plan on changing for the better through this challenge.
"I was active but when I moved to Dubai, I gained a lot of weight because I couldn't afford to pay for a gym and I didn't want to run under so much heat. My confidence went away when I gained weight, especially when I dress up, I don't feel good. I don't feel confident," Dez said. "But with this challenge, I feel motivated to start losing weight again. Seeing all of these people here, is encouraging me to get fit."
Another Filipino, Renato, struggling with weight loss, said he has developed "insecurities" because of his body.
The 45-year-old said it has become more important now than ever for him to get fit to maintain a good health.
"I would admit that I have insecurities because of my weight. It's reality, but at the end of the day it's how you view yourself. Now, it's become more about losing weight for my own health reasons because I'm getting older. I'm not getting any younger, I need to be healthy," Renato said.
"I was a bit big since I was young. When I moved to Dubai, I joined a gym and I lost a lot of weight. But then I stopped because of work and personal life. Then a month ago, I wanted to lose weight again because a friend from Philippines challenged me to lose weight. Incidentally, there was this Dubai fitness challenge and I grabbed this opportunity."
An Indian expat, Ash Nind, 30, said the Fitness Challenge exercises at Safa Park is a great opportunity for her to lose weight.
"I have personally struggled with weight constantly throughout my life. It's been like seesaw, gaining a lot of weight and losing a lot of weight. So, this initiative has been a great step for me to take the first step and start my weight loss. I've always had this battle that I want to lose weight but it's not that easy. I am naturally lazy but whenever I do have the motivation I take the initiative and this challenge has been the excellent opportunity to do so."
The group exercising sessions at Safa Park will go on until November 18, every Friday and Saturday.

• UAE
• Dubai