Fitness – PowerUp City Magazine

Bahrain’s Children and the Fitness Gap – Why Only One in Five Gets Enough Exercise

PowerUpAdmin — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 14:24:36 +0000

In Bahrain’s malls, playgrounds, and classrooms, a quiet health challenge is unfolding. According to international studies, just 20% of children worldwide meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation of at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. In Bahrain, where lifestyle trends increasingly mirror global patterns of high screen time and low movement, the concern is just as real.

What does this mean for the health, learning, and happiness of Bahrain’s young generation—and what can parents do to change it?

The Movement Deficit

The WHO guidelines stress daily physical activity to build strong bones, muscles, and mental resilience in children. Yet research highlights the opposite trend: kids spending three or more hours per day on screens, from gaming consoles to TikTok scrolling.

“Too little exercise in childhood isn’t just about weight gain,” explains Prof. Christine Joisten, sports physician at the German Sport University Cologne. “It affects sleep, mood, school performance, and even long-term risks like type 2 diabetes.”

In Bahrain, pediatricians have also flagged the risks of rising childhood obesity. According to the National Health Survey (2018), nearly 15% of Bahraini children are obese, a figure climbing steadily in recent years Source: Bahrain Ministry of Health.

Why It Matters Here

Academic Performance: Children who exercise regularly show stronger memory and focus—skills directly linked to better school results.

Mental Wellbeing: Exercise improves confidence and reduces anxiety, vital as teens face exam pressure and social challenges.

Family Health: Bahrain’s rising rates of diabetes and cardiovascular disease begin with habits formed in childhood.

The Children’s Activity Pyramid

One solution is simple: build more movement into everyday life. Experts use the “Children’s Activity Pyramid” as a guide:

Base layer: Small daily movements—walking to school, helping at home, biking to a friend’s house.

Middle layer: Fun play—jumping rope, football in the park, tag games, rollerblading.

Top layer: Sport sessions—basketball, swimming, martial arts, or dance—at least twice a week.

Bahrain already has growing opportunities: community football pitches, open-air gyms in Manama, and after-school sports clubs

Local Inspiration

Bahraini triathlete Mico Faminial, who trains for endurance events while raising funds for charity, uses his platform to encourage young people to embrace movement. His motto: “Start small but stay consistent.”

How to Turn Screen Time into Move Time

Tech as a tool: Apps like Pokémon GO or fitness trackers can gamify movement.

Family challenges: Who can do the most jumping jacks before dinner? Who climbs the stairs fastest?

Role modelling: Children copy what they see—so if parents hit the gym or walk daily, kids follow.

“Parents are the most important motivators,” says Prof. Joisten. “If you cycle to the shop instead of driving, your children learn that activity is normal.”

Quick Guide for Bahrain Parents

Encourage at least 60 minutes of active play or sport daily.

Replace some screen time with family walks, swimming, or cycling.

Explore community sports clubs (football, boxing, martial arts, padel).

Be an active role model—kids mirror your habits.

Celebrate movement as fun, not a chore.

#PowerUpCity #BahrainFitness #ManamaWellness #HealthyKidsBH #BahrainLifestyle

The Best Protein Powders of 2025 – Top 5 Ranked & Reviewed

PowerUpAdmin — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 21:20:11 +0000

Finding the right protein powder can make all the difference in your recovery, muscle gain, and overall health. We tested and tasted dozens—here are the five standouts.

Photo Credit: Boutayna Chokrane

1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey

Best Overall

Why it stands out:
A classic for a reason. With 24g of protein per scoop, a complete amino acid profile, and flavors that actually taste good, this is the industry’s go-to. It mixes easily, works well in shakes or baking, and passes independent purity tests.

Protein per serving: 24g

Protein type: Whey blend (isolate, concentrate, peptides)

Best for: Post-workout, daily use, muscle gain

Taste: Wide flavor selection, not chalky

Price: (approx. BHD 29)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

2. Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Best Vegan Option

Why it stands out:
Plant-based and certified organic, Orgain offers 21g protein per serving from pea, rice, mung bean, and chia. It’s filling, blends creamy, and contains fiber and prebiotics for digestion. Tastes smooth, not gritty—ideal for dairy-free diets.

Protein per serving: 21g

Protein type: Pea, rice, mung bean, chia

Best for: Vegans, lactose intolerance, meal replacement

Taste: Creamy, mild, not overly sweet

Price: (approx. BHD 12)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)

3. Vital Proteins Vital Performance Protein Powder

Best Collagen-Based Powder

Why it stands out:
Perfect for those focused on hair, skin, and joint health, this mix delivers 25g protein (including 10g collagen) with NSF Certified for Sport approval. It dissolves well, works in water or milk, and is gentle for sensitive stomachs.

Protein per serving: 25g (10g collagen)

Protein type: Milk protein isolate + collagen peptides

Best for: Recovery, skin/hair/joint health

Taste: Mild vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, cold brew

Price: (approx. BHD 11.5)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

4. Ritual Protein Daily Shake 18+

Best Clean-Label Vegan Shake

Why it stands out:
Traceable ingredients (North American peas), minimal additives, and full Clean Label Project certification. Delivers 20g protein, 8g essential amino acids, 4g BCAAs, and 250mg choline per serving. Soy-free, gluten-free, and eco-conscious.

Protein per serving: 20g

Protein type: Pea protein

Best for: Clean eating, pregnancy/postpartum, daily supplementation

Taste: Subtle vanilla, not artificial

Price: (approx. BHD 18.5)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

5. Naked Micellar Casein Protein

Best Nighttime Protein / Minimalist Option

Why it stands out:
With only one ingredient (micellar casein from hormone-free milk), this slow-digesting powder is perfect before bed. Delivers 26g protein, nearly 50% of daily calcium, and is free from sugar, sweeteners, or additives. A little harder to mix, but worth it for purity.

Protein per serving: 26g

Protein type: Casein

Best for: Overnight recovery, slow release, minimalists

Taste: Unflavored or mild chocolate/vanilla

Price: (approx. BHD 38)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Comparison Table

Protein Powder	Type	Protein/Scoop	Flavors	Price (BHD)	Best For	Rating
Optimum Nutrition	Whey blend	24g	15+ (vanilla, choc etc)	29	All-around, muscle gain	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Orgain Organic Vegan	Plant (pea/rice/chia)	21g	10+ (vanilla, choc etc)	12	Vegan, meal replacement	⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Vital Proteins	Collagen + milk isolate	25g (10g coll)	4 (vanilla, choc, etc.)	11.5	Recovery, joint/skin/hair	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ritual Daily Shake	Pea	20g	1 (vanilla)	18.5	Clean/traceable, daily use	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Naked Casein	Casein	26g	3 (unflav, vanilla, choc)	38	Slow-digest, bedtime, purity	⭐⭐⭐⭐

PowerUp City’s Take:

For pure muscle building, stick with Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey.

For plant-based diets or digestion issues, go with Orgain or Ritual.

Need better recovery for skin and joints? Vital Proteins is your pick.

Want the cleanest, slowest-releasing protein? Naked Casein before bed.

Tip: Always check for allergens and artificial additives to suit your personal nutrition goals. For best results, mix with your favorite milk or smoothie base and experiment with flavors!

Bahrain Rugby Football Club: From Sandlot Dreams to Sporting Powerhouse

PowerUpAdmin — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:26:35 +0000

A Club Born from Community

It began in 1971 with a simple pitch by the airport and a handful of rugby enthusiasts—mostly expats and servicemen looking to bring a slice of home to Bahrain. Back then, the game was as much about camaraderie as competition. By 1974, Bahrain RFC stepped out from under the British Club’s wing and claimed its own identity, setting down roots as a fully independent club.

The early years were marked by movement and ambition. The club bounced between venues before landing in Saar in 1977, establishing a proper base for rugby and a growing community. Despite the Gulf’s tough climate and regional instability—including the impact of the Gulf War—the club pressed on. Bahrain RFC’s tenacity paid off in the 1980s and 1990s, with standout performances in the Arabian Gulf League and Dubai Sevens.

But what really changed the club’s future was the opening of the Janabiyah Sports Complex in 1995—a purpose-built facility that gave Bahrain RFC room to expand and set new standards for club rugby in the region.

Facilities: More Than Just Rugby

Bahrain RFC is now the beating heart of Bahrain’s sporting community, with over 6,000 members and facilities that go well beyond a rugby pitch. Here’s what you’ll find:

Facility	Details
Grass Rugby Pitch	Full-size, floodlit, international-standard grass pitch
Clubhouse	Licensed bar, restaurant, terrace seating, private event space
Gym	Modern equipment, personal trainers, open from 6am daily
Netball Courts	Two outdoor courts, home to a competitive and social netball community
Tennis Courts	Two floodlit courts for all ages and abilities
Badminton	Indoor facilities, regular sessions
Swimming Pool	Outdoor pool, lessons and recreational use (seasonal)
Kids’ Play Area	Safe, enclosed play zone for families
Multipurpose Rooms	Used for fitness classes, yoga, meetings
Parking	Large, secure on-site car park

The club’s facilities are open year-round and designed for family use, social gatherings, and serious training alike.

A Story of Success and Resilience

Over the decades, Bahrain RFC became more than just a rugby club. Its membership grew to include men, women, and youth from all backgrounds. The club’s men’s First XV have repeatedly featured in the West Asia Premiership and UAE Division 1, and the women’s teams and juniors have made their mark in tournaments across the region.

Recent years have seen major milestones:

2016: The club appoints a full-time Director of Rugby, strengthening coaching and performance.

2017-2020: Multiple league and cup victories, cementing the club’s place as a regional force.

2022: Founding member of the Bahrain Rugby Federation, helping secure a seat in the Asian Rugby Union.

2025: Both the 1st and 2nd XVs reach West Asia finals, a double-final that marks a first in club history.

Bahrain RFC is also a proud host of international matches, with visiting sides from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and the club regularly features on the social calendars of Bahrain’s diplomatic and expat communities.

A Hub for All of Bahrain

What sets Bahrain RFC apart is its inclusive spirit. This is not just a club for elite athletes—it’s a social and sporting hub for families, young professionals, diplomats, and locals alike. Regular events range from quiz nights and BBQs to fitness classes, kids’ sports camps, and charity fundraisers.

Looking Ahead: More Than Just a Club

As Bahrain grows, so does the club’s ambition. Plans are underway to further invest in youth rugby, expand women’s sports, and host even more international events. The club’s leadership, now working closely with the Bahrain Rugby Federation and national sporting bodies, is focused on building for the next generation.

Eat, Meet & Unwind: The Bahrain RFC Clubhouse Restaurant

A central part of Bahrain RFC’s appeal is its modern clubhouse and restaurant. Far from a typical sports club canteen, this venue is a destination in its own right—serving up quality food, a licensed bar, and a relaxed terrace that’s popular with members and visitors alike.

Restaurant Highlights:

Full à la carte menu including international dishes, grills, salads, and healthy options

Children’s menu, bar snacks, and daily specials

Wide range of beverages: barista coffee, fresh juices, and licensed bar service

Family-friendly, with high chairs and play areas nearby

Indoor and shaded outdoor seating with pitch views

Catering available for private functions and club events

Opening Times:

Restaurant: 7:00 am – 11:00 pm daily

Bar: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm (licensed; subject to local laws)

Gym: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm

Reception/Clubhouse: 6:00 am – late (depending on events and activities)

Membership: Options for Everyone

Bahrain RFC offers a range of membership options to suit different needs—welcoming everyone from serious athletes to social members and families.

Membership Type	Details/Benefits	Price (2025)
Full Playing Member	Unlimited access to rugby/football/netball, gym, pool, all sports, and social events	BD 250/year
Social Member	Clubhouse, restaurant, bar, pool, social events, no sports participation	BD 125/year
Family Membership	Two adults + children under 18, all-inclusive sports and social access	BD 400/year
Junior/Youth Member	Under 18s; all sports, gym (age-appropriate), pool, social events	BD 75/year
Corporate/Group	Custom packages for companies or embassies; price on request	On request
Short-term/Visitor	1-month, 3-month temporary memberships; includes gym and pool access	From BD 40/month

Joining is straightforward:

Visit reception, fill out the form, and bring a valid ID.

Discounts are sometimes available for early renewals or multi-year sign-ups.

All memberships include access to club Wi-Fi and secure parking.

Get Involved

Location: Janabiyah Sports Complex, Bahrain

Email: info@bahrainrfc.com

Tel: +973 1769 5809

Website: www.bahrainrfc.com

PowerUp City View:
Bahrain RFC’s journey from a sandlot by the airport to the nation’s leading sports and social club is a story of community, resilience, and passion for sport. Whether you want to play, watch, or simply enjoy the best atmosphere Bahrain has to offer, the doors at Bahrain RFC are open.

Gear Review – Bear Grylls’ Survivalist “Dad Bag”

PowerUpAdmin — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 15:19:48 +0000

Adventure-Ready Essentials for Family Explorers

Pro Tip: Bear Grylls, recently spotted in Bahrain alongside HH Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, has inaugurated his Bear Grylls Adventure Zone at Hawar Resort by Mantis—proof he’s taking family survival learning global

What’s in the Bag?

Bear Grylls Utility Multi-Tool
A rugged stainless tool equipped with pliers, blade, scissors, screwdriver, and can opener—perfect for quick fixups or snack prep.

High-Calorie Snacks
Family hikes demand energy—packing mixed nuts and dates keeps everyone fueled.

DIY First-Aid Kit
Grylls suggests assembling your own basic kit: bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, ibuprofen, eye drops—more practical than store-bought kits.

10 mm Static Climbing Rope
Useful for shelter-building, safety lines, or fun boundary activities, great for kids’ outdoor lessons.

“You Decide Your Adventure” Book
His kid-focused guide blends quizzes with survival tips—engaging and educational for young explorers.

Why It Works

Grylls blends real-world readiness with family appeal:

Multi-tool & snacks support both survival and parenting needs.

Custom first-aid ensures quality control and peace of mind.

Climbing rope lends versatility—from safety to fun.

The activity book inspires outdoor engagement for kids aged 6–12.

InField Performance

This kit is more than emergency gear—it’s interactive:

Fix a zipper, patch a scrape, or refuel on the trail.

Rope becomes a tool for teaching knots or building trust circles.

Wild outdoor scenarios become learning playgrounds with intentional items.

PowerUp City Snapshot

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Well-rounded survival + parenting gear	Some items (rope, multi-tool) add weight
Encourages learning and responsibility	Book content may be too basic for older kids
Lightweight and portable	First-aid requires regular upkeep

Final Take

With his recent work in Bahrain, Bear Grylls shows survival isn’t just for the wild—it’s for families, too. The Survivalist “Dad Bag” equips parents for emergencies and adventure alike. It’s smart gear for real-world parenting—because being prepared doesn’t mean being serious—it means being ready to explore and learn, together.

Fitness Review – Top 4 Gyms in Bahrain (2025 Guide)

PowerUpAdmin — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 14:29:36 +0000

Bahrain’s fitness landscape has grown rapidly in recent years, with a new generation of gyms leading the way in quality, variety, and results. Whether you’re searching for specialized women’s training, family-friendly facilities, modern amenities, or the most advanced strength and conditioning spaces, these four standout gyms set the benchmark for what members can expect.

Bodyline Ladies Club, Avangard Gym, Fitness Hub Gym, and Spartan Fitness each offer unique approaches—ranging from dedicated ladies-only spaces and versatile group classes to functional training, exclusive lounges, and innovative wellness features. Across all locations, members benefit from professional trainers, flexible packages, and value-driven deals that make it easier than ever to prioritise health and wellbeing.

This year, PowerUp City gives special recognition to Spartan Fitness. Spartan has raised the standard in Bahrain with its massive training zones, unmatched range of equipment, expert coaching team, and luxury extras such as an in-house kitchen and spa. If you’re serious about achieving your fitness goals in 2025, these gyms represent the best Bahrain has to offer.

These facilities consistently rank among the best in Bahrain thanks to their diverse training options, high-quality equipment, and member satisfaction.

1. Bodyline Ladies Club

Location: Saar Google Maps Locations and Reviews

Tel: +973 1779 3933

Email: info@bodylinespa.com

Web: Gym – Bodyline Ladies Club

Instagram: Spartan Fitness Ladies

Ideal for: Offers a range of classes including Pilates, Kick-boxing, Zumba, circuit-training, and more.

Rates: 1‑month BD 70; 3‑month BD 175; 6‑month BD 300; 12‑month BD 490

Deals: Full use of gym facility, Full access to pool & spa facility, 1 free personal training session &1 free pilates class.

2. Avangard Gym (Men/Ladies & Family Gym)

Location: Al Hidd Google Maps Location and Reviews

Tel: Ladies gym inquiries +97335422725 & Men gym inquiries +9733452 0830

Email: info@fitbahrain.com

Instagram: Avangard Gym

Ideal for: Cross Fitness & Recovery.

Pricing: Monthly Packages from BD 33 to yearly for BD 230

Deals: Day passes available from BD 5. 2+1 Deals for Gym & Crossfit.

3. Fitness Hub Gym

Locations: Qudaibiya(Unisex & Ladies Only), Salmaniya(Unisex & Ladies Only) & Karzakkan(Gents Only) Google Maps

Tel: +973 32107151 & +973 33633323

Web: Fitness Hub Gym

Instagram: Fitness Hub

Ideal for: Modern facility includes separate areas for women, a mixed workout zone, and a private VIP lounge. Members can access personal training, group classes, and a full range of premium amenities.

Pricing: Packages from ~BD 20/month upward Membership Rates

Deals: No joining fees, free trainer guidance. Platinum packages available include free personal training, parking, snacks/water and lounge access

4. Spartan Fitness (Saar) PowerUp City Special Recognition

Location: Al Hidd Google Maps Location and Reviews

Tel: Ladies gym inquiries +97335422725 & Men gym inquiries +9733452 0830

Email: info@fitbahrain.com

Instagram: Avangard Gym

Ideal for: Cross Fitness & Recovery.

Pricing: Monthly Packages from BD 33 to yearly for BD 230

Deals: Day passes available from BD 5. 2+1 Deals for Gym & Crossfit.