Can’t be bothered dragging yourself out of bed in the morning, and too worn out in the evening to exercise? Nice try. We’ve tracked down a selection of the best fitness classes the capital has to offer – all of which you can fit into your lunch break. Work these sessions into your afternoon and you’ll find yourself energised and less stressed throughout the day – and, best of all, you’ll be fighting fit in no time without giving up any of your precious evenings and weekends.
Power Spinning – 30 minutes
For: Quick-fire cardio
The workout: A fast, intense workout that’ll have you pouring sweat and pedalling like you’re in with a chance of winning the Tour de France. This is a high-impact calorie burner that will get your heart racing, and give your legs and bum a tough workout. Sound like a waking nightmare? Well at least it’s all over in 30 minutes and you can be back at your desk, showered, pumped full of adrenaline and enjoying a well-earned sandwich.
Where: Sheraton Abu Dhabi (02 697 0272)
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 12.30pm-1pm
Cost: Dhs30 for members, Dhs35 for non-members
Body balance – 60 minutes
For: Unwinding
The workout: Hate pounding the treadmill, but still want to get a good workout? Try a body balance session that’s all about developing poise, balance and strength. Drawing on yoga, tai chi and Pilates techniques, this class uses controlled breathing, concentration and a carefully structured series of stretches, moves and poses that are set to music. It’s perfectly suited for anyone who wants to switch off and just focus on their body for an hour. You’ll be left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for the rest of the afternoon.
Where: Abu Dhabi Country Club (02 657 7777)
When: Fridays, noon-1pm
Cost: Free for members, Dhs50 for non-members
30/30 Pump & RPM – 60 minutes
For: A high-octane energy blast
The workout: This session is split between cardio and strength work. The first half-hour is devoted to strength and toning using barbells – the focus is on the back, shoulders and arms. Next up it’s a blitz of RPM (aka spinning), allegedly the world’s fastest activity for fat burning. If that combo doesn’t wear you out, well then you’re too fit already. Go home and eat a few doughnuts.
Where: The Club (02 673 1111)
When: Fridays, 12.30pm-1.30pm
Cost: Free for members, or Dhs40 for guests (plus club entrance fee)
Abs Blaster – 30 minutes
For: A washboard stomach
The workout: It might be an excruciating half-hour, crammed with crunches and curls that will have you wincing with exertion – but it’ll definitely be worth the pain next time you hit the beach with a trim tummy. This session concentrates on toning all the muscles of the abdominals and back, using techniques that will strengthen rather than strain.
Where: Grand Millennium Al Wahda (02 495 3831)
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 1.30pm-2pm
Cost: Dhs40 for members, Dhs60 for non-members
Aqua Fitness – 60 minutes
For: Gentle afternoon exercise
The workout: The Shangri-La’s elegant health club pool is an excellent setting for this low-impact workout. The class strengthens your heart, lungs and vascular system, while the water’s resistance helps to condition muscles. Ideal for those who don’t want to work up too much of a sweat, and who enjoy a bit of socialising afterwards.
Where: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Health Club (02 509 8888)
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 11am-noon
Cost: Dhs30 for members, Dhs50 for non members
