There is a new, intense competition among NYU Abu Dhabi students — waking up before 7 a.m. each morning to attempt the near impossible task of securing a gym slot. In a moment of concentration that only rivals course registration or newly released concert tickets, many students wake up to only be disappointed at the results of this daily ritual. With space capacity greatly reduced due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Fitness Center can currently only accommodate 10 people at a time and requires thorough cleaning between each use. It also runs the risk of being closed down anytime amid rising Covid-19 cases in the UAE.

And so, it is time to get creative in planning your workout. Staff members of the NYUAD Athletics team have shared their suggestions of workout options that go beyond the restraints of the gym.

We think of our campus as a place for stress or socializing, but it can also be our own personal gym. Don’t limit yourself to the Fitness Center — a great workout awaits at the swimming pool, indoor or outdoor track. The 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. time slot at the practice pitch for a serene sunset on the empty field is highly recommended.

Photo courtsey of Nastassja Gerlich.

Matt MacDonald, PE Curriculum Manager, recommended walking one lap around the highline before heading to the dining hall; each lap is approximately one kilometer or 10 minutes of walking.

“Adding 10 minutes of movement to an already established routine, like eating dinner, compounds over time. If you walk just 10 minutes each evening before dinner that's almost 61 hours annually or 365 kilometers per year,” MacDonald emphasized. You can always bring along a friend for a conversation and catch up over walking instead of sitting.

Lyne Ismail, Athletics Administration and Special Projects Coordinator, added that you can do burpees outside of your residence hall. The grassy area above the West Dining Hall (D1) for a larger workout space is another viable option; the benches there are ideal for step ups. The five liters water jugs received during quarantine — or purchasable from the convenience store — provide the perfect adjustable weight for strength training.

Siya Chandrie, Class of 2021, follows HIIT videos in her dorm room and uses a water jug for weight. [Photo courtesy of Kaashif Hajee.]

Simply taking the stairs around campus can also make a big difference. “Make an effort to do some kind of movement everyday. It doesn't always have to be a “workout” — take a walk with a friend, go for a run, kick a football, do yoga,” explained Miriam Maher, Physical Education Instructor. “Even 10 minutes will energize you and make your day better.”

Why not accomplish two goals in one and use your workout as a reason to get off campus? Whether walking, running or cycling, this is an opportunity to explore Saadiyat Island or other parts of the city.

“I live in Al Raha Beach which has a great path that runs along the water, and, of course, the Corniche is fantastic,” added Vicky Davis, Facility, Equipment and Competition Manager. “If you see a hill, incline or a staircase while you're out, sprint up and then walk down for a microburst of exercise to get your heart rate up.”

Asma Aljanahi, Club Sports and Intercollegiate Administration Coordinator, similarly suggested exploring the neighborhoods around you. If you find yourself at a beach and in a safe swimming spot, Aljanahi also recommended taking a dip for a quick cool down.

Scott Cannie, Assistant Director of Athletics and an avid cyclist, encouraged students to utilize the NYUAD Bikeshare program and explore Saadiyat on two wheels. “You will find me out on my road bike around Saadiyat regularly, so if you see me, give me a wave and say hello,” added Cannie.

“Alternatively, head to Yas Marina Circuit and TrainYas on Sunday and Tuesday evenings to cycle, walk or run on the F1 track,” he suggested, adding that you can rent a bike for free from the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club while following the Covid-19 protocols.

Cannie, along with Salma Al Busaeedi, Intercollegiate Athletics and External Sports Relations Manager, also recommended Al Hudayriat Island as an ideal cycle spot with their 10 kilometers cycling track. You can rent a bike from Yas Cycles on site, and Cannie recommended to ride at sunrise or sunset to best enjoy the Abu Dhabi skyline view.

Members of the women’s intercollegiate football team cycling at Al Hudayriat in December. [Photo courtesy of Lyne Ismail.]

Understandably, booking the Fitness Center gives students a sense of structure and accountability to follow through on their workout plans. However, given the current constraints, you can make use of the early spring weather of Abu Dhabi and endless outdoor space for a workout upgrade. “Turn your workout into something entertaining and fun,” emphasized Al Busaeedi. “If your current workout routine becomes too boring, try something new and exciting.”

Cannie emphasized the importance of consistency: “Build movement and exercise into your daily routine and be consistent. Also, if you are unsure or not sure what to do, reach out to any of the coaches.” The NYUAD Athletics team is ready to help you out as you embark on more creative ways to stay fit.