1. Get clearance from your doctor:
I know you’re eager to exercise, but your doctor must be aware, especially if you are taking any medication or suffer from any condition. Staying on the cautious side by taking your doctor’s advise can save you a lot of pain later on. If your doctor is not Muslim, this is an excellent opportunity to explain how Muslims fast. However, your doctor might tell you not to exercise at all just so that they don’t take any chances. In that case, if you feel there’s no reason why you can’t exercise, then go for it.
2. Best time to workout:
2. Best time to workout:
If you can, get in about 25 minutes of exercise right before sehri/suhoor. This way you do not dehydrate your body while working out during you fast, and you are able to fuel yourself right away. However I realise this is not feasible for everyone, so another option is spending another 25 minutes just before iftar. If you find yourself really exhausted and in no shape to workout at that time, then have a light iftar, wait for an hour, and exercise right before taraweeh.
3. 25 minutes is adequate
10 minutes of cardio, 15 minutes of strength training. Alternate between upper body and core and lower body and core, and this will ensure you are targeting your body overall. The duration is short enough to keep you from feeling thirsty. And if you feel you need more cardio, go for taraweeh early, park far away, and run/jog to the mosque.
4. Avoid foods that will slow you down
As I said in the beginning, food is your fuel, and you want to make sure you avoid fatty foods, overeating, and too much sweets to ensure your workouts are successful.
5. Drink a lot of water when you can
This is essential. Water has 100s of benefits, from weight loss to optimal bodily functions. Stay away from other sugary drinks, and drink as much water during the evening as you can. Carry a bottle to taraweeh.
6. Listen to your body
If you are tired or exhausted, then either shorten your workout, or change your routine. Change the time. Try different things to see what works the best for you. In the end, the purpose of Ramadan is spiritual development, so nothing should take away from that.
7. Consult an expert
A lot of the times we don’t know if what we are doing is enough, right, or even necessary! Don’t stay in doubt, find your local fitness expert and nutritionist and get your questions answered today!
