Walk your way to health at QF this summer

Doha, Qatar: As temperatures continue to soar this summer, Qatar Foundation is helping members of the community stay fit through a range of low intens...

Doha, Qatar: As temperatures continue to soar this summer, Qatar Foundation is helping members of the community stay fit through a range of low-intensity steady-state (LISS) exercise opportunities, such as cooled walking trails and bike paths, and indoor swimming pools.

Charbel Abi Khalil, Associate Professor of Medicine & Genetic Medicine, Assistant Dean of International Affairs, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar – a Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university – and a consultant cardiologist at Hamad Medical Corportation’s Heart Hospital, spoke about the importance of LISS.

“Low-intensity exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Regular engagement in these activities can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and enhance heart function by promoting a steady, moderate increase in heart rate.

“This type of exercise is also effective in managing cholesterol levels, as it raises ‘good’ cholesterol while lowering ‘bad’ cholesterol. Additionally, low-intensity exercise supports weight management, reduces stress, and improves mental health, making it a valuable component of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.