Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
What if improving your health required only a little time each day?
Across neighbourhoods in Abu Dhabi, residents are opting for outdoor activities as part of "Degayeg", a community initiative that encourages people to develop healthier habits through small, everyday moments of movement.
"Degayeg" – which means minutes in Arabic – was launched by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, with support from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
The idea behind the initiative is simple: make physical activity easy, welcoming, and naturally integrated into daily life for people of all ages.
Instead of focusing on intense workouts, "Degayeg" highlights the power of small steps.
A short walk, a stretch in the park, or a light activity with neighbours can all make a difference.
Residents can participate in events in Al Shamkha, Al Bahiyah, and Madinat Khalifa in Abu Dhabi, as well as Al Amrah and Al Dhahir in Al Ain, and Madinat Zayed in Al Dhafra Region.
Walk, Run and Cycle Together
One of the most popular activities of the initiative is "Run with Us", a weekly Saturday morning gathering where residents walk, run or cycle together. For many participants, it is not just about exercise, but also about starting the weekend with a sense of community.
Young people are encouraged to stay active through "Youth in Motion", which aims to help Emirati boys and girls build confidence, teamwork, and healthy habits through sports and physical activity.
Meanwhile, "Stronger Together" offers simple strength and mobility exercises designed to help participants stay active while enjoying the experience together.
For those who enjoy friendly competition, "Play to Win" organises district-level sports tournaments that bring young people together through teamwork and sportsmanship.
Women can also take part in "Water Wellness", which offers gentle water-based exercises focused on improving flexibility and overall fitness.
Another activity, "Walk to Gahwa", combines movement with social connection. Participants walk and stretch together before sitting down for coffee and conversation, turning a short walk into a shared community moment.
Short Burst of Activity: A Game Changer
Speaking to Aletihad, fitness professionals highlighted the importance of initiatives like this for physical and mental wellbeing, as well as fostering communal connection.
Riad Zalihić, Co-founder of Exclusive Trainers AD, said exercise helps people destress and reduce anxiety, and community initiatives allow them to feel part of something larger.
"We can analyse human health holistically, beyond hormones or muscles, to include psychological wellbeing," Zalihić said.
"In the Year of Family, nurturing such initiatives is especially important. Many families lack opportunities for shared activity and emotional support, so we should work to expand and strengthen these programmes."
Miloš Jovanović, owner of Fitness Vibes, noted that even short periods of movement can have a noticeable impact.
"As a fitness professional, I always tell people that you do not need hours in the gym to see real benefits. Even a few minutes of daily movement can be a game changer for your mind and body, especially in the current situation.
"Short bursts of activity, such as a quick walk or light stretching, instantly release endorphins, the body's natural mood boosters, while helping flush out cortisol, the main stress hormone. This brief physical reset clears brain fog, lowers anxiety, and gives you the mental clarity needed to continue the rest of your day with fresh energy."
Jovanović added: "Initiatives like Degayeg are brilliant because they remove the intimidation often associated with fitness. They show that building a healthier community can start simply by making those few minutes of daily movement accessible to everyone."
Residents interested in taking part or learning more about the activities can register through the initiative's website at www.Degayeg.ae.
