Ghada Zakaria began to feel pain in her knees after working out in high-intensity circuit training up to five times a week.
But she did not take it as a sign that she should cut back on exercise.
Because of the exertion, the ligaments in her knees became inflamed and she nearly ruptured the tissue in her left knee.
“I overdid it and didn’t listen to my body,” Mrs Zakaria said. “Although I started to feel pain I didn’t rest. I would raise my leg and ice it, but that wouldn’t help either.
“I went to seek help when it reached a point I couldn’t work out any more. I couldn’t even walk. I was in excruciating pain.”
For three months, Mrs Zakaria walked with a limp. Doctors prescribed physiotherapy and painkillers, but the Emirati could no longer assume the praying positions. To a dedicated Muslim who has been praying for more than 11 years, the revelation was a disappointment.
“I was forced to pray sitting. It was too painful to stand or kneel,” she said. “I got a prayer rug that was padded with sponge but it was still uncomfortable.”
Then Mrs Zakaria discovered the physiological prayer mat.
“It’s so comfortable on my knees and it feels so cool and damp. I can stay kneeling for much longer and can sit for a good couple of hours.”
Even those who have not suffered serious injuries say the mat has changed their praying experience.
Amal Al Rumeithi, 30, started to experience pain every time she knelt.
“My prayer used to take me three or four minutes because of the discomfort. Now I spend a good 10 minutes or more on each one,” she said.
“Before I used to do it only because it’s a religious duty, now I do it with pure commitment.”
For Fatma Mohammed, 52, from Jordan, the only downside is the Dh990 price tag. But she was grateful her nephew gave it to her as a gift.
“It is durable and can prevent further injury, so for people who can afford it, it’s definitely worth it,” she said. “But many of those who need it are elderly and may not be able to pay. It would be good if this became a little more affordable.”
Mrs Zakaria, a mother of three, has bought 12 mats to share with her friends and family.
“When you’re injured, you feel guilty because you haven’t done the prayer right,” she said. “The physical movement has a spiritual aspect.
“When you stand, kneel, prostrate, you really get into the prayer. These motions anchor certain spiritual feelings.”
