Sheikh Khalifa bin Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, who attended the launch of Adventure HQ's new branch in Yas Mall on Monday, talks to The National about the importance of motivating young people to stay active and lead healthy lifestyles. He also applauds projects such as Adventure HQ's Youth Initiative, where the facilities at the seven Adventure HQ spaces in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be open for schoolchildren during physical education lessons.
Why do you think initiatives to get children more active should be encouraged?
It’s very important for the community to work together to provide support and motivation for our youth to stay active and healthy. Therefore, initiatives like these should be encouraged and supported as they are very important for our society. The benefits of adopting an active lifestyle are endless – the thrill and excitement of outdoor adventurous sports are second to none.
How do you think parents can encourage their children to lead a more healthy lifestyle?
I am a true supporter of things that start from an early age at home. We need to see more parents leading an active life and motivating their children to do the same. It’s not a short-term thing, it is a long-term objective that stays with a person their whole life. We have been given great vision and support from our leaders and we all contribute as a community.
Do you think that activity centres such as Adventure Zone in Adventure HQ make fitness more fun for children?
Of course – not only do they provide a year-round facility, but they also make staying active fun and exciting, which is great. I commend Adventure HQ for investing in the health of our youth; now more than ever it’s imperative that we encourage exercise for the long-term health benefits.
artslife@thenational.ae