Rather than carving out huge chunks of time to work out, the secret lies in finding those small, consistent opportunities to be active – because every little bit adds up! From the moment the sun rises over the city to when it dips below the horizon and even later, here are 30 active moments to include in your day over Dubai Fitness Challenge and beyond.

1. Sunrise stretch: Start your day with 5 minutes of stretching.
2. Walk the block: Get up and out with a brisk walk around the block before your day starts.
3. Stair climb: Conquer the stairs at every opportunity.
4. Power walk for coffee or breakfast: If you’re grabbing breakfast or a coffee out, walk a little further than usual.
5. Park and stride: Park slightly further away from your office or destination.
6. Bike to work/errands: If possible, cycle for short commutes. Bikes are available to rent across the city.
7. Active commute: Take the bus or metro – the stations offer plenty of opportunities to walk.
8. A quick set of squats: Squeeze in 10-15 squats before your workday kicks off.
9. Lunch break stroll: Instead of eating at your desk, take a walk to another location (this is also a really good way for your mind to take a break).
10. Hydration breaks: Make it a point to get up and walk to the water cooler every hour.
11. Desk stretches: Stand up and take a stretch at your desk every 30-60 minutes.
12. Energetic errands: Choose to go grocery shopping rather than rely on delivery.
13. Carry a basket: Opt to carry a shopping basket rather than pushing a trolley and give your arms a little workout.
14. Household chores: Vacuum with vigour! Turn cleaning into a mini exercise session.
15. Dance break: Put on your favourite song and dance for a few minutes.
16. Mini workout blast: Schedule 5 minutes of jumping jacks, high knees or burpees.
17. Post-work wind-down walk: Take a gentle walk to de-stress after work.
18. Active cooking: Do calf raises and push-ups at your kitchen counter.
19. Family playtime: Engage in active games such as races or throwing/catching a ball with your kids or family.
20. Evening cycle: Enjoy the cooler evening air with a bike ride.
21. Walk with friends: Socialise actively instead of just sitting – grab a coffee and walk.
22. Mindful movement: Indulge in a short evening yoga session to help you relax.
23. Clean-up calories: Make tidying up before bed an active task, plumping cushions and putting things away.
24. Couch lift: Lift weights while watching your favourite TV show.
25. TV advert break: Use commercial breaks to hold a plank, do 10 lunges or 15 high knees.
26. Brush with purpose: Test your balance and strength and stand on one leg while brushing your teeth (swapping halfway through).
27. Mall walk: Walking the malls is a great way to get your steps in (and window shop while you do so).
28. Wall sit while you wait: Every time you’re waiting for your kettle to boil or microwave to ping, drop into a wall sit.
29. Take advantage of free activities: Try to visit one of the DFC Fitness Villages or Hubs and have a go at all kinds of free classes and activities.
30. Bedtime stretches: Finish your day with light stretches, including hugging your knees to your chest and taking a spinal twist – ready to get up and moving again the following morning.