| Kippreport.com

In Motion fitness club set to wipe out obesity in UAE

March 9, 2009 12:00 by Aarti Nagraj

The first Exergames fitness club in the MENA region, In Motion is now open in Dubai with a mission to promote wellness and reduce obesity amongst children and adults. A one-stop wellness solution for youth, the club offers a means to develop ‘smart brains and dynamic bodies’ through unique fitness solutions called Exergames.

This new concept of combining entertainment and exercise comes as a solution to the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and lifestyle related illnesses. “Obesity has reached alarming levels in the Middle East with over 45 per cent in the age group of 15 and 49 being overweight”, says Dr. Philip James, Chairman of International Obesity Task Force. The figures are expected to rise further in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Obesity is also said to be increasing dramatically in the UAE, to a level even higher than that found in western countries. Recent statistics released by the UAE Ministry of Health reveal that 26% of children in the country are obese. Prevention of type-2 diabetes in young people, through reduction in childhood obesity rates, poses a major public health challenge to the Ministry of Health in UAE.

Lack of exercise and improper diets, unhealthy lifestyle are the major factors leading to increased obesity rates in the country. In Motion Club, targeting the primary age group of 6 to 17 years, provides complete fitness facilities based on Exergames and Exertainment, in a child-friendly environment.

Exergaming, a portmanteau of “exercise” and “gaming”, is perfect for the sedentary youth who prefers to play video games, watch TV or sit at the computer. While the games are virtual, the calories burned while playing Exergames are real. A study by Mayo Clinic, a medical group in the United States, reveals that Exergaming can fight childhood obesity as the energy spent is similar to that of ‘traditional playtime’. The kids lose weight while challenging themselves and having fun. Exergaming is also said to improve the players’ stress levels, cardio-vascular health, sensory-motor learning, cognitive alertness and performance.

Besides Exergames, In Motion also provides certain traditional strength & resistance equipments for the serious health-buff. Fitness equipment for adults are made available here with a view of enhancing family bonding through exercise and fun. Nutrition counseling, one on one training, group exercise classes, a healthy juice bar, a party zone, summer camps, all form a part of services offered here. In Motion is also an exclusive distributor of Exergaming & Kids Fitness Equipment in the region and plans to build In Motion in schools, airports, parks, playgrounds, adult fitness clubs etc.

In Motion, a Dubai based company, driven by the limited edutainment activities available for our youth between 6 and 17. We at In Motion – in association with one of the leading exergame fitness experts “Exergame Fitness – www.exergamefitness.cm” and a leading child wellness education center – have initiated a novel wellness club for kids and families comprising the latest interactive “exergaming” equipment along with an integrated educational curriculum that teaches practical strategies to improve physical activity and eating habits. In Motion is determined to make quality, health-and-wellness-based physical education a reality in the U.A.E and the region. www.in-motion-club.com

For More Information please contact:

Noura Souki

Pencell PR & Events

Tel: +971-4-4278733

noura@pencelldubai.com