That extra flab you have suddenly put on after shifting base to the UAE has many villains: Unhealthy lifestyle, frequent food takeaways and lack of exercise being the biggest ones.

If staying healthy is your resolution for 2018 - like ours - we have quick tips that can help you transform into a leaner version of you.

All you need to do is make some simple changes in your life. Read on -

Healthy bites over Shawarma

Why opt for atakeawaymeal when you can toss healthy meals at home? Sure, it means a bit of effortbut it is better than picking up a shawarma on the way home.

Walk into any supermarket in Dubai and you can see a long aisle of salad section, right from tabbouleh,peeledfruits to salad boxes. If cooking ain't your thing, at least replace your Shawarma with healthy bites.

Too hot to exercise

It is better you don't give this excuse for not exercising during the summer months. Dubai has a plethora of options,likeswimming, aqua biking,paddleboardyoga, aquaZumbaand there are well-equipped gyms every fewkmsin the city.Pick your sport and start sweating it out.

Run to fitness

With the Dubai Marathon to be held this month, you might have spotted many runners on the tracks. Dubaiboastsof great tracks across the city. Pick your option from Al Safapark, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek,JumeriahCorniche and many more.

Skip the car 

It is common for most new expats to buy a car within the first year of shifting base to Dubai. While it is understandable that you don't want to walk when the temperature is over 35 degree Celsius in Dubai, you surely can skip the car on a clear day.

Want to go to the nearest supermarket or reach a metro station, walk your way instead of hopping into a vehicle.

Cycle your way

The most common excuse that residents have about no clocking in even 30 minutes of exercise is lack of time. If good health is your priority this year, then making time for some daily exercise should be in your things to do list.

How about you cycle your way to work. at least during the pleasant winter months? Apart from being a fun exercise, you are also working out these lazy muscles you are gifted because of your desk job.

- anita@khaleejtimes.com

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