My UAE: Emirati athlete Nuha Luqman on keeping on running

Nuha Luqman runs for her country. Courtesy Nuha Luqman

Last Friday, Emirati athlete Nuha Luqman made her debut in Muscat with the Al Mouj Open Half-­Marathon, crossing the finish line with her hand raised in the UAE’s three-finger salute.

It pushes Luqman’s racing tally – both cycling and running – to 84. The Emirati, who grew up in Abu Dhabi and works full-time for a government entity, has been competing in the UAE since 2013, with only two races abroad – Paris in September last year and now Muscat. Her only podium win was at Al Wathba Cycling Series 3 on January 9 in Abu Dhabi, where she was placed second.

“I am not a fast runner,” she admits. “But it doesn’t bother me. I run for the sake of running. It is something that many people don’t understand. They expect you to win, since you’ve invested so much time, money and energy into prep and training for each competition.

“It costs me nearly Dh5,000 to register for events every year, not counting the cost of training, gym memberships and gear. But standing on that podium isn’t everything. It’s the sense of satisfaction that’s important, and to keep competing with yourself.”

Luqman’s love affair with running began a few years ago, after she sustained an injury and piled on weight.

“I joined a fitness group, where the instructor suggested I hit the track to get back in shape,” she says. “I grew to enjoy it and eventually turned my sights on a 5K in November 2013. The feeling when you’ve crossed the finish line is truly special – I did it in 36 minutes 29 seconds. For me, it was a big achievement.”

Since then, Luqman has made it a point to run daily. Her day begins before sunrise when she joins a group, such as the Abu Dhabi Striders, for an hour or two before heading off to work. The evenings are divided ­between hanging out with her family and a few more hours on the track.

Her training regimen is supplemented by a sensible approach to food, because she doesn’t believe in special diets.

“These restrictive diets can be bad for you,” she explains. “I allow myself everything, but in small portions. The idea is to satisfy your craving and know when to stop.

“In fact, after every race I treat myself to a big American breakfast – pancakes included – because I will work it all off at some point.”

During the sports season, from September to May, Luqman participates in up to four events each weekend. This year, her ambitions are bigger: she has set her sights on TriYas at Yas Island on February 17, followed by the ITU World Triathlon, also at the same venue, on March 3 and 4. This means the weekends are spent training hard at The Room at Zayed Sports City, where her fitness plan includes cycling, swimming, yoga, Pilates and body functional workouts.

Besides the adrenaline rush that comes from running a race, it is the feeling of community that Luqman cherishes.

“Everybody is there to help you and spur you on,” she says. “If you are lagging behind, they pat your back and shout encouraging words as they overtake you. The positive energy keeps you going.”

Luqman’s biggest wish is for Abu Dhabi to eventually have a permanent indoor track. “It would be nice to have a dedicated space, especially in summer, with some ladies-only sessions. This is the biggest challenge – how to keep fit during the hottest days of the year, without being confined to the gym.”

She also points out the need for more tracks in the city and better safety on the roads. “Designated running tracks alongside main streets are necessary,” she says. “Traffic is the biggest threat to runners, because we are forced to run alongside speeding cars.”

Luqman’s biggest pride and joy is her growing haul of UAE participation medals, and she has commissioned a US-based company to design an installation on which she can display her ­hardware.

“When I run I represent my country. It is thanks to our Rulers that Emirati women have been empowered,” she says. “We are able to pursue what we want without censure or judgement.

“You know, every time I cross a finish line, I always hold up my hand in Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s three-finger salute. For me, it’s the ultimate sign of pride and respect.”

Which running track in Abu Dhabi do you like to frequent?

Yas Marina Circuit is my favourite place to run – it’s full of enthusiastic runners.

What do you do to unwind?

I like spending time with my family, and my cat Tum Tum, and watching television. I’m currently into Downton Abbey.

Your favourite sport?

Figure skating – I used to do it as a child. I also like watching tennis.

What’s your next holiday destination?

I usually combine a vacation with a running event. This year, I might go to Japan for a half-marathon, but it depends on my work schedule.

Which book are you currently reading?

Leadership Dubai Style by Dr Tommy Weir – it explains how Dubai's leaders, like Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, have achieved astounding success. In fiction, I am reading The Marble Collector by Cecelia Ahern.

What’s your No 1 sneaker brand?

Saucony, because the shoes are perfect for me. I have low arches, and I find the American brand very comfortable.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

French fries – I can never resist them but I make sure I eat small portions.

Name one health food you cannot do without.

Coconut water. It is hydrating, replenishes salts and nutrients, and tastes delicious.

Who is your pin-up sportsperson?

Rafael Nadal. I admire his sportsmanship, attitude and personality. He is the embodiment of a true athlete.

Do you plug into your iPod while running? What are you currently listening to?

Sia's Don't Give Up. I like to listen to music and run to the rhythm.