25km walks, ditching junk: How UAE expat lost 30kg, won Dh9,000 in weight loss challenge
Anwer Ali, a 31-year-old Pakistani expatriate living in the UAE, recently achieved a remarkable feat by shedding an impressive 30.2 kilograms in just three months. His journey from struggling to walk even a kilometer to effortlessly trekking 25 kilometers is nothing short of inspirational. Anwer's transformation was fueled by his participation in the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2024, an annual event organized by RAK Hospital.
Anwer's commitment to his health saw him adopt a rigorous training program starting from December 16, 2023. He made significant dietary changes, eliminating junk food, sugar, and other unhealthy products from his meals. Instead, he focused on a diet rich in vegetables while incorporating daily walks of over 25 kilometers. His dedication paid off as he emerged victorious in the male physical category of the weight loss challenge, earning not only a healthier body but also a prize of Dh9,000.
Reflecting on his journey, Anwer expressed gratitude for the positive changes in his life. He no longer craves unhealthy foods and feels much fitter and happier. His motivation to participate in the challenge stemmed from a desire to rebuild his home in Pakistan after it was affected by a flood. Now, with his improved health and financial reward, Anwer finds himself in a better position to achieve his goals.
Anwer was not the only success story of the weight loss challenge. Muhsina Kalisam, an Indian expatriate, also achieved significant weight loss, shedding 23.3 kilograms and winning Dh6,900 in the female category. Muhsina shared her experience of being body-shamed due to her weight, which motivated her to embark on a journey towards better health. Through a combination of dietary changes and a simple fitness routine of jogging and walking, Muhsina not only lost weight but also gained confidence and happiness.
The weight loss challenge, organized as part of RAK Hospital's annual CSR initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Prevention Ras Al Khaimah, aimed to motivate, educate, and guide participants on their transformative weight loss journey. The fourth edition of the 12-week nationwide campaign witnessed an impressive participation of 18,000 individuals from across the UAE, with over half hailing from Ras Al Khaimah.
The awards ceremony held at RAK Hospital celebrated the achievements of 24 individual winners, one corporate champion, and two school champions. Participants were recognized for their dedication to improving their health and well-being, with each shedding an average of 9 kilograms during the challenge.
In addition to cash prizes, winners received luxurious 5-star staycations, gym memberships, health checks, and other attractive rewards. The event was attended by Khalid Abdulla Mohammed AlShehhi, director of the Representative Office, Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), Ras Al Khaimah, who graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Dr. Raza Siddiqui, executive director of RAK Hospital, congratulated the winners and emphasized the importance of healthy lifestyle choices. He highlighted the inclusion of school categories in the challenge, aiming to instill the importance of good health from an early age.
The weight loss challenge not only addressed individual health concerns but also aimed to raise awareness of the obesity epidemic and related complications. With a diverse group of participants, including both genders and various age groups, the challenge demonstrated its significance in promoting health and wellness on a global scale.
Overall, the success of the weight loss challenge underscores the power of perseverance and healthy lifestyle choices in achieving personal transformation and improving community health.
By: Sahiba Suri
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