The starting line

National Sports Day is strong addition to the growing basket of healthy living initiatives

Riders and members of the public take part in a special pre-race parade marking the start of the DubaiTour cycling race. Antonie Robertson / The National

November 25 has been designated as a nationwide sports day for residents and citizens to come together in healthy competition. Happening just before Abu Dhabi's annual Formula One race, it will be an ideal opportunity for the country to embrace the spirit of healthy living. The event is part of an expanding programme of initiatives, such as The National's #cycletoworkuae campaign and #healthyliving magazine, as well as the new health and fitness programme at Yas Marina Circuit.

Such events are crucial to establishing and inculcating a strong appreciation of active living within society. National Sports Day or #cycletoworkuae, taken by themselves, are not end points for healthy living. Rather, they are part of the lifelong process towards an energetic lifestyle, the benefits of which are the best defence against obesity and diabetes. When it comes to healthy living, the journey is the destination. National Sports Day will be another part of this journey.