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Dubai-based university dean inspires students to get fit

Dubai - Speaking about his personal workout regime, Dr Trotter said he works out every morning from 7am to 8am.

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For university students in the city, the Dubai Fitness Challenge is a brilliant way to sharpen mental focus, overcome stress, and build emotional resistance, said Dr James Trotter, dean at Murdoch University in Dubai. The American national has been affiliated with the Australia-based university since 1994 and has moved to the Dubai campus over a year ago.
In terms of fitness, he has had a steady habit since childhood.  "I've always tried to stay fit and healthy. I usually use the exercise bike in the gym, and I've lifted weights in the past. But my routine is basic, consisting of push-ups and sit-ups," he said.
In accepting the challenge on October 26, the 57-year-old educationalist said he had two reasons. "I have been exercising for most of my life. But now, the challenge is to increase my consistency," Dr Trotter told Khaleej Times right after completing his 30-minute workout.  His second reason, however, was not for himself but for his students - he wanted to motivate them.
Like last year, over 100 Murdoch University students from various fields of study have come together and pledged to complete their 30 days of fitness. "I arrived in the UAE just over a year ago. I did participate last year, and the university also had a fitness group then. We are promoting the challenge to our staff and students," he said.

Building emotional resistance

"Education is not just about the mind. As educators, we need to look after the students' physical well-being and emotional resilience as well," he said. For a lot of young university students in Dubai, the fitness challenge has been very helpful.
"The challenge itself is motivating, and having a diverse range of activities across the city is really helpful, as students can choose what they like to do best," added Dr Trotter. "I encourage students to work out outdoors. Sports activities, such as soccer and basketball, and some indoor activities using the stairs are some great ways for students to reach physical and mental fitness," he said.
"People tend to engage in detailed and stressful work for long hours. My advice is that it's absolutely important to develop a regular habit since it contributes to a much better life overall. An average of 35 to 40 minutes a day is good enough."

Morning workouts do wonders

Speaking about his personal workout regime, Dr Trotter said he works out every morning from 7am to 8am. "I prefer working out in the mornings as it boosts my energy levels and helps clear my mind. It helps me focus and work better," he said. "When I fall out of an exercise habit, I have less stamina and I feel more lethargic."
The dean also believes that Dubai has excellent facilities for building a regular exercise routine.
He said: "The facilities are great; I especially like those in Downtown Dubai. For people who want to exercise outdoors - biking, group running activities - there are options for everyone."

Top four things to do on November 4

Take your pick
>What: Al Khaleej Walk Fitness Village
>Where: Quranic Park, Al Khawaneej, Dubai
>Time: 16:00 - 22:00
>Activities: Exercise sessions, including Technogym, MyCycling Gym, and group cycling events
Sports for fitness
>What: DMCC Park Fitness Village
>Where: JLT Park
>Time: 07:00 - 21:00
>Activities: Variety of tournaments being held by PSSA Basketball Academy, IFA Football Academy, and DuPlays
Sun, sand, and fun
>What: Kite Beach Fitness Village
>Where: Kite Beach
>Time: 07:00 - 18:00
>Activities: Beach sports tournaments, including cricket, soccer, volleyball, as well as special DFC aqua class
Strike a Ninja pose
>What: One-on-One Ninja Warrior
>Where: DMCC Park Fitness Village
>Time: 07:00 - 21:00
>Activities: Best for children; trampoline park, acrobatics workshops, yoga and meditation sessions for kids
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com