Fitness in Qatar

Expat life in Qatar, as in all other countries, can initially be accompanied by a sense of isolation and loneliness. Weight gain and non-activity are normal during the first year or so as you learn to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings, and depression, apathy and procrastination seem to be especially commonplace in this desert country, where stricter rules apply. 

 

A good way to combat the extra kilograms and loneliness is to get out of the house and make an effort to engage in one of the many fitness options in Qatar.

 

Because of the country’s high level of involvement in international sport, staying in shape plays an important part in both local and foreign lives.  Residents are encouraged to adopt a fitter lifestyle through media fitness promotion and easily accessible, top-class sporting facilities.

 

Additionally, fitness clubs and personal trainers abound here, but exercise is also obtainable in various fun ways.

 

During summer months, between June and September, extreme weather conditions might hamper plans to be outdoors, thus sunrise or after-dark walks are advisable.

 

 

The Corniche, a paved and landscaped pathway on the edge of the water surrounding the Bay, is a popular site for both picnickers and those looking to get in shape. The outdoor pedestrian area affords exercise enthusiasts a broad, flat area, perfect for running and walking. Not to mention, the Corniche features views of the city and an island, and distance measurements are displayed on the pavement for those interested in keeping track of their mileage (or kilometres travelled). Early morning and late afternoon seems to be peak hour for foot traffic, but the walkway never gets too crowded for free exercise; although, parking may become tight after dark. 

 

 

Manicured lawns, small trees and cement walkways characterise the many exercise parks dotted around Doha. Apart from individual walking and running, various Boot Camp groups utilise these public facilities to work out in. All of the parks sport a similar design and are conveniently spaced to enable easy access from all areas. Like the Corniche, parks can only be taken advantage of outside of summer months, due to the extreme heat. 

 

Cycling is a hugely popular sport in Qatar; during summer months cyclists are out by sunrise to capitalise on the cooler air, and during winter roads are busy all the time.  

 

►Contact Qatar Cycling Federation on their Facebook page or call 4447 5522

 

Qatar Fencing Federation promotes fencing at national and international levels. Classes are available for beginners, as well as advanced participants.  Training sessions are held separately for men and women, and take place from Sunday to Thursday from 4pm to 7pm at Tariq Bin Ziyad Training Centre in Al Sadd.  

►Qatar Fencing Federation

Email: qff@olympic.qa
Tel: 4470 8555/56

 

A 10-lane bowling alley on the ground floor of City Centre Mall provides a friendly venue for those who feel more comfortable with their bowling boots on. 

 

Open from Saturday to Wednesday, 10am to 9.30pm, Thursday 10am to 11.30pm, and Friday 1pm to 10.30pm. 

 

►City Centre Mall
Tel: 4483 9990

 

Though Doha is in the desert, a gorgeous golf green still awaits those who simply can’t imagine leaving home without their clubs. Doha Golf Club has an 18-hole championship course, including putting and chipping greens and world-class practice facilities. 

 

Professional coaching by qualified coaches is available for adults and juniors. The club is open daily from 6am to 11pm throughout the year. 

 

Tel: 4496 0777

 

Yoga is presented at various hotels and private clubs throughout Doha, with the most popular studio being Yama Yoga Studios. They offer over 30 classes a week at two locations, Garvey’s  and the Ritz Carlton Hotel.  

 

Tel: 6617 5802

 

For a more structured fitness experience or group exercise, health clubs at hotels and government facilities are very popular. Membership fees vary from reasonable to exorbitant, and are available on request at all venues.  Most hotel clubs offer daily rates, as well as monthly rates.  All facilities are indoors and fully air conditioned to facilitate access throughout the year. 

 

An impressive sports facility which incorporates Aspire Sports Hall, Hamad Aquatic Centre and the Women’s Sports Hall.  Aspire runs fitness programmes for men and women separately.  The Women’s Sports Hall offers various group aerobic and spinning classes daily. 

Tel: 4447 6786 

 

info@dclub.com.qa

A recreation centre offering aerobic classes for members and non-members.

Tel:  4484 7444

 

The centre offers a variety of classes including step, stretch, low impact, strengthening & toning, power walking and aqua-fit. Other facilities include Personal Training, Yoga, Indoor tennis and squash courts. 

Tel:  4484 8000