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RESIDENTS of Bahrain are set to get into shape by participating in one of the things they enjoy doing most ... walking around a mall!
Bahrain City Centre in association with the Capital Governate, Fitness First and the Ministry of Health today announced its participation in this year's World Health Organisation's '1,000-cities 1,000 lives' campaign promoting a healthier lifestyle.
The initiative will kick off with Bahrain's first 'mall walking programme' at the popular shopping destination.
Marking World Health Day today, the announcement was made at a press conference at the mall by Shaikh Humood bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Governor of Capital Governorate, Dr Amal Al Jowdar from the Ministry of Health and Ray Scott, the centre's general manager.
The mall walk will cover 2kms and allow each walker to burn up to 700 calories per session. Walkers will be spurred along by mini-exercises mid-route that will create a fun atmosphere.
The supervised programme will kick-off at 9am on April 26 and participants will be able to continue with the activity every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday with a Fitness First personal trainer on hand to motivate and offer useful tips.
Cities throughout the world are being urged to open their streets to pedestrians and promote health-related activities. Shaikh Humood said: "World Health Day 2010 is a chance for Bahrain to play a part in a global movement. By focusing on ways to create healthier urban environments, we are promoting a more positive and active lifestyle for the residents."
Dr Al Jowdar, acting director of health promotion, Ministry of Health, added: "We hope that the residents of Bahrain take full advantage of the mall's safe, temperature-controlled environment that is perfect for mall walking, especially as the hot summer months will soon be upon us."
Mr Scott says the centre was 'very excited' to be bringing the concept of 'mall walking' to Bahrain. "These events offer the perfect opportunity for the people of Bahrain to engage in a fun, healthy activity," he said.
Visit a customer service desk at Bahrain City Centre for a registration form and welcome pack.
