The University gym will have extended opening until 11pm Monday to Friday throughout March
Extended opening until 11pm Monday to Friday throughout March.
Between the evening of 28 February and the evening of 30 March Muslims around the world will be observing the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
At the Gateway Gym we want to support all of our Muslim members who wish to continue exercising throughout Ramadan. We hope the following general information on exercise during Ramadan will help. We also want to show our support by extending our opening hours Monday to Friday to 11pm. In doing this we hope to provide an opportunity for exercise after Iftar (the meal which breaks the fast after sunset) and evening prayers, considering the need to let food digest before engaging in exercise.
Exercise During Ramadan
When?
Either just before iftar or between iftar and suhoor (meal before sunrise). Ultimately, ‘when’ is down to the individual and it is okay to experiment to see what works best for you
Purpose?
Focus on maintenance of fitness rather than breaking records
What type?
Strength training should be the focus to avoid loss of muscle mass. Limit the cardio and increase the number of rest days.
Intensity?
In line with maintaining fitness rather than focusing on performance reduce look to reduce intensity by up to 50% to keep things ticking over
Nutrition?
Drink plenty of water between iftar and suhoor to make sure you stay as hydrated as possible throughout the next fast. If you choose to exercise before iftar but after the close of the day’s fast you might benefit from something light and sweet such as dates and milk for example. Avoid high salt foods and reduce caffeine intake as both of these increase dehydration. Make sure if you feel lightheaded, dizzy or weak that you stop exercise as these are all signs of dehydration.