RAK Crown Prince Urges Youth To Prioritise Health Over Appearance In Fitness Challenge

Healthcare

RAK Crown Prince Urges Youth To Prioritise Health Over Appearance In Fitness Challenge

Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi has called on young people to focus on long-term health and wellbeing, rather than physical appearance, as part of the Ras Al Khaimah Fitness Challenge.

“This challenge was never about appearance or bodybuilding — it’s about building a healthy lifestyle that lasts,” the Crown Prince said during a visit to a participating gym, highlighting the initiative’s deeper purpose.

The second edition of the challenge, held under his patronage, is designed to encourage sustainable fitness habits and steer participants away from extreme or unhealthy practices often associated with short-term transformations.

A key pillar of the programme is its strong focus on youth, with participation open to individuals aged 13 and above. The initiative aims to instil discipline, endurance, and healthy routines early, helping young people develop both physically and mentally before adulthood.

The Crown Prince emphasised that fitness goes beyond weight loss, encompassing strength, endurance, and balanced daily habits, while addressing unhealthy behaviours through structured guidance.

The youth-first approach builds on the success of the inaugural edition, which concluded in December 2025. During that event, it was announced that the second edition would expand eligibility to include younger participants, reinforcing its community-wide impact.

The first edition delivered impressive results, with Walid Omar Ali Al Sharhan Al Nuaimi crowned overall winner after a remarkable transformation. Starting at around 150kg, he lost approximately 19kg over three months, demonstrating the programme’s focus on steady and sustainable progress.

The competition featured 20 prize categories, with total rewards reaching Dh810,000, and was celebrated at the Ras Al Khaimah Sports Complex, underscoring the initiative’s growing popularity across the emirate.

During his visit, the Crown Prince also engaged with participants and praised the collective efforts behind the programme, noting its role in promoting health awareness and strengthening the social fabric of Ras Al Khaimah.

The initiative continues to position fitness not as a short-term goal, but as a lifelong commitment to health, balance, and wellbeing.