Summer is all about long days, new adventures, and the freedom to step out of routine. But with the Dubai Fitness Challenge (November 1–30) around the corner, many of us are trying to get back into shape before it is too late to surprise one’s crush.

The good news? With the right mindset, supportive community, and fresh opportunities, getting back into movement can feel less like a chore and more like a safe space.

Here is how to reignite your fitness spark — with style, support, and just the right amount of wellness indulgence.

For starters, don’t be too hard on yourself. It is normal to take a fortnight to adapt back to your hectic Dubai routine. Ease back with a mix of consistency, fun, and mindful resets. Try to take advantage of your home gym and start with something small like walking 8 km a day (to keep the doctors away).

Some points that can help:

If motivation feels far away, don’t go it alone. Grab your friends and move together! Also, if your friends are betraying you — just join Dubai’s most social running club — Jumeirah Johns Running Club.

If you aren't really in a social mood, but don’t want to crash the gym alone — this author’s favourite class is barre. It is perfect, because it is a very fun yet intense (just as intense as needed) cardio with mobility. Sort of like when you’re eating edamame — so many great components in one pea.

For instance, Barre Effect offers free classes if you bring a bestie. Their 50-minute sessions are designed to sculpt, energise, and uplift (the needed parts of body and mind).

If you are into fun and active — grab a friend and commit to two classes a week. Your glutes will be on fire and you will feel light and energised again.

Another option, if you are into active and your bestie is a soft one — Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites is running a whole lot of sport masterclasses from October to May. What is cool is that they bring trainers from all around the world, staging classes for everything from breathwork and ice baths to Muay Thai, aerial yoga, and sound healing. So, literally everyone can find something for themselves. The first class will be the breathwork & ice bath with Eliška Ehrenbergerová.

Another important part of the routine that everyone forgets about is recovery. Those who rest well — work well. So, taking the time to recover, especially when you are under the stress of adapting back is crucial.

Some regular tips are blackout curtains, silence, and 8+ hours of sleep. Ah, also nutrition, so don’t forget to count those macros. Otherwise — dive deeper into how to be a sleeping beauty here.

Furthermore, there is a new thing in town called the “Conscious Brunch” at SOHUM Wellness, where you can bite some plant-based delicacies during your Ayurvedic consultations and spa.

Anyways, re-entry doesn’t have to mean punishment workouts or strict diets. Please don’t do either of those. Re-entry and being back is about gaining balance back and trying to find your sweet spot in the busy city life.