Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi’s growing passion for cycling and the health benefits it affords has extended beyond last weekend’s second Abu Dhabi Tour.
More than 220 people jumped on a bike this week for the launch of Cycle for Health UAE, an initiative from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of Mubadala’s health care providers, to encourage cycling in the emirate.
Hosted at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s medical campus on Al Maryah Island, Cycle for Health UAE was launched with a series of outdoor, stationary cycling classes led by expert instructors. There was also an interactive family zone featuring heart health activities.
“As a health care provider, our role extends beyond providing clinical care. We have a responsibility within our community to promote overall wellness, and help people understand how to take better care of their health,” said Dr Tomislav Mihaljevic, Chief Executive Officer, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. “Through Cycle for Health UAE — which also provides designated, safe places within Abu Dhabi for people to cycle — we encourage the community to consider getting on a bicycle for both health and fun.”
As part of Cycle for Health UAE, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides complimentary bikes and helmets at Yas Marina Circuit every Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday night for StartYAS, TrainYAS and GoYAS. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi also supports professional cycling events in Abu Dhabi, including the ITU World Triathlon, and will sponsor an amateur race series at the Al Wathba Cycle Track next February. Additional cycling events will be introduced in 2017.
Cycling is one of the fastest growing participation sports in the country and has been promoted through the Abu Dhabi Tour, which attracted a world-class field last weekend. Cycling’s governing body, the UCI, has upgraded the Abu Dhabi Tour 2017 to World Tour status when the third edition is held next February.
In addition, Abu Dhabi plans to double the number of walkways and bike trails in the city by 2020.
“Cycling is an easy, enjoyable way to incorporate more exercise into your lifestyle and improve overall well-being. In the coming months, we look forward to organising more cycling opportunities for the community to enjoy,” added Dr Mihaljevic.
Follow #CycleForHealthUAE for updates and more information about upcoming events, or visit Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube channels.
