The Emirati athlete provides insights about how she navigates the Ramadan schedule
In the world of professional cycling in the UAE, Abu Dhabi-based Emirati athlete Zahra Hussein is a rising star. At just 22 years old, Zahra has been making her mark on the international cycling scene, representing the UAE Development Team with passion and dedication.
Her cycling journey is one of determination and skill, with notable finishes including second place in the National Championship Road Race. Zahra took on European cycling during the 2023 Princess Anna Vasa Tour in Poland, marking a significant step in her career.
Recently, she took some time to share her insights on training during Ramadan with Yalla Abu Dhabi, shedding light on how she balances fasting with her athletic pursuits.
Zahra, could you start by telling us about yourself and your journey in professional cycling?
My name is Zahra Hussein Mohammad, and I’m a professional cyclist from the UAE. I’ve been riding for the UAE Development Team since 2023, previously I was with the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club. It’s been an incredible journey so far and I had the opportunity to compete both locally and internationally, which has been a dream come true for me.
That sounds like an amazing experience, but how are you managing your training during Ramadan? Could you tell us more about your training schedule during the holy month?
During Ramadan, I adjust my training schedule to accommodate fasting hours. I usually train after Iftar, as my training sessions are quite long, often lasting more than an hour and sometimes more than two hours. Training after Iftar allows me to maintain a good energy level throughout the session.
Nutrition is key for athletes, especially during Ramadan when fasting is involved. What dietary considerations do you keep in mind during this time?
Nutrition plays a crucial role in fueling my training sessions, especially during Ramadan. I focus on maintaining a balanced diet with an emphasis on carbohydrates. Carbs are essential for providing the energy I need to perform at my best. I also make sure to hydrate properly and avoid heavy foods during Iftar to prevent feeling sluggish during training.
Consistency seems to be a theme in your approach to training during Ramadan. Could you elaborate on why you prioritise consistency over intensity during this time?
Fasting during Ramadan can impact energy levels and overall performance. That’s why I believe it’s important to prioritise consistency in training rather than pushing myself to the limit.
By maintaining a steady training regimen and avoiding excessive intensity, I can ensure that I stay on track with my fitness goals while also respecting my body’s needs during fasting.
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Rest and recovery are crucial aspects of any athlete’s routine. How do you ensure you get enough rest while balancing training and fasting during Ramadan?
Rest and recovery are non-negotiable for me, especially during Ramadan. I make it a priority to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep each night to allow my body to recover properly.
This ensures that I can approach my training sessions with full energy and focus, ultimately leading to better performance on the bike. I also avoid oversleeping because I find that too much sleeping makes you lazy!
As Zahra continues to inspire with her dedication and resilience, her insights into training during Ramadan offer a valuable resource for athletes navigating the holy month while training. With her balanced approach and commitment to her sport, Zahra Hussein provides a fine example of determination and perseverance.
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