Ras Al Khaimah

🏋️

Fitness and Exercise

Sections

1. Fitness Centers and Gyms

Ras Al Khaimah has a growing number of fitness centers and gyms catering to different fitness levels and preferences. Here are some of the popular options:

a. Gold’s Gym

  • Location: Al Naeem Mall, Al Qawasim Corniche.
  • Facilities: State-of-the-art equipment, free weights, cardio machines, group fitness classes (e.g., Zumba, yoga, spinning), personal training, and sauna.
  • Membership Costs: Approx. AED 200–400 per month, depending on the package and duration.
  • Joining Procedure: Visit the gym, fill out a membership form, and provide a valid ID (passport or Emirates ID). Payment can be made upfront or in installments for longer memberships.
  • Cultural Considerations: Separate workout areas for men and women are available, respecting local customs.

b. Fitness First

  • Location: Al Hamra Mall.
  • Facilities: High-quality gym equipment, group classes (HIIT, yoga, Pilates), personal training, and swimming pool access.
  • Membership Costs: AED 300–500 per month, with discounts for annual memberships.
  • Joining Procedure: Register online or in person. Emirates ID or passport is required.
  • Cultural Considerations: Women-only classes and facilities are available.

c. RAK Hospital Wellness Center

  • Location: Near Saqr Hospital.
  • Facilities: A wellness-focused gym with fitness classes, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation services.
  • Membership Costs: AED 150–300 per month.
  • Joining Procedure: Walk-in registration with ID proof.
  • Cultural Considerations: A family-friendly environment with a focus on health and wellness.

d. Al Hamra Golf Club Gym

  • Location: Al Hamra Village.
  • Facilities: A boutique gym with modern equipment, personal training, and access to the golf course for outdoor fitness.
  • Membership Costs: AED 250–400 per month.
  • Joining Procedure: Membership can be purchased at the club reception.
  • Cultural Considerations: Ideal for those living in or near Al Hamra Village.

2. Outdoor Exercise Spots

Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty and well-maintained public spaces make it an excellent destination for outdoor fitness enthusiasts.

a. Al Qawasim Corniche

  • Activities: Jogging, walking, cycling, and outdoor fitness equipment.
  • Facilities: Dedicated jogging and cycling tracks, open-air gym equipment, and waterfront views.
  • Cost: Free access.
  • Cultural Considerations: Dress modestly, especially during peak hours when families are present.

b. Jebel Jais

  • Activities: Hiking, cycling, and mountain climbing.
  • Facilities: Marked hiking trails, cycling routes, and adventure activities like the Jebel Jais Flight (world’s longest zipline).
  • Cost: Free for hiking; adventure activities are priced separately (e.g., zipline costs AED 300–400).
  • Cultural Considerations: Wear appropriate hiking gear and carry water. Avoid hiking during extreme heat.

c. Saqr Park

  • Activities: Walking, jogging, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
  • Facilities: Walking tracks, open spaces for yoga or group workouts, and children’s play areas.
  • Cost: AED 5 entry fee.
  • Cultural Considerations: Family-oriented environment; modest attire is recommended.

d. Beaches (e.g., Al Hamra Beach, Flamingo Beach)

  • Activities: Beach yoga, swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.
  • Facilities: Public and private beach areas with water sports rentals.
  • Cost: Public beaches are free; private beaches may charge AED 50–100 for day access.
  • Cultural Considerations: Swimwear is acceptable on the beach, but modesty is appreciated in public areas.

3. Group Fitness Classes and Specialized Activities

For those who enjoy group workouts or want to try something new, RAK offers a variety of classes and activities:

a. Yoga and Pilates

  • Studios: Yoga House RAK, private classes at hotels like Waldorf Astoria or Hilton.
  • Cost: AED 50–100 per session; packages available for regular attendees.
  • Cultural Considerations: Women-only classes are available in some locations.

b. Martial Arts and Boxing

  • Studios: Cobra Fitness RAK, RAK Martial Arts Academy.
  • Activities: Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and self-defense classes.
  • Cost: AED 300–500 per month.
  • Cultural Considerations: Classes are open to all, but some offer women-only sessions.

c. CrossFit and Functional Training

  • Studios: CrossFit RAK, located in Al Hamra.
  • Cost: AED 400–600 per month.
  • Cultural Considerations: Mixed-gender classes are common, but inquire about women-only options if preferred.

d. Water Sports and Activities

  • Locations: Al Hamra Marina, RAK Sailing Academy.
  • Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing.
  • Cost: AED 100–300 per session, depending on the activity.
  • Cultural Considerations: Swimwear is acceptable, but modesty is appreciated when not in the water.

4. Membership Costs and Discounts

  • Monthly Memberships: AED 150–600, depending on the facility and services.
  • Annual Memberships: Discounts of 10–20% are often available for upfront payments.
  • Corporate Discounts: Many gyms offer discounts for employees of certain companies.
  • Trial Classes: Most gyms and studios offer free or discounted trial sessions.

5. Procedures for Joining

  • Documents Required: Emirates ID or passport.
  • Payment Methods: Cash, credit card, or bank transfer.
  • Health Check: Some gyms may require a basic health assessment before starting.

6. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Modesty: While workout attire is acceptable in gyms and outdoor exercise areas, modest clothing is recommended in public spaces.
  • Gender-Specific Facilities: Many gyms and fitness centers offer women-only areas or classes to accommodate cultural preferences.
  • Prayer Times: Be mindful of prayer times, as some facilities may adjust schedules or close briefly.
  • Hydration: Always carry water, especially during outdoor activities, as temperatures can be high.

7. Tips for Staying Active in RAK

  • Timing: Exercise early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat.
  • Community Groups: Join local fitness groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Meetup to connect with like-minded individuals.
  • Events: Participate in fitness events like marathons, cycling races, or yoga retreats, which are regularly organized in RAK.

Ras Al Khaimah offers a diverse range of fitness and exercise options, catering to all preferences and fitness levels. By understanding the local culture and exploring the available facilities, you can easily maintain a healthy and active lifestyle in this beautiful emirate.