step into health is Aspire Zone Foundation’s community inspired fitness program, which is designed to engage the public in a self-managed, lifelong program based on moderate amounts of daily activity, AZF officials said yesterday. Speaking at a press conference, organizers said the aim of the program is to inspire the nation to walk more every day in a non-competitive, recreational and social way. The press conference was attended by Dr. Khalifa Jeham Al-Kuwari, Aspetar CEO, Abdulla al Raisi, Deputy CEO of Commercialbank Qatar as well as Dr. Mohammed Ghaith Al-Kuwari, Director of Healthy Lifestyle Program at Aspetar. “step into health is a brand new initiative set to inspire members of the community to adopt healthier lifestyles, which will eventually build a healthier nation. The program reflects Aspire Zone Foundations ongoing dedication to help position Qatar at the helm of the sporting revolution that is currently sweeping the Middle East, and ultimately fulfill Qatar’s National Vision of 2030 by using sport as a platform for change,” said Dr. Khalifa Jeham Al-Kuwari, Aspetar CEO. “Commercialbank Qatar is dedicated to promoting sport as a vehicle for changing lifestyles and mindsets. This partnership is an opportunity to work alongside one of the biggest sports organizations in Qatar to help address a growing health concern. We are honored to be a part of this unique program that yet again demonstrates Aspire Zone Foundation’s commitment to community development,” commented Abdulla al Raisi, Deputy CEO. In a bid to encourage the community to start walking, AZF will provide a free personal pedometer for every participant that signs up, along with an optional health check and online support. Participants will be able to upload information from the pedometer to the website in order to keep track of their progress. In addition, the website will have the added benefit of allowing members to calculate their BMI (Body Mass Index), which indicates human body fat based on an individual's weight and height. Members will also be given exclusive access to upcoming events organized by Aspire Zone that will help participants achieve their daily goal. “The step into health website is comprehensive and full of useful tips that will encourage participants to achieve their ultimate goal. Information ranges from helpful nutrition advices and useful health articles to venue details. Designed for men and women of all ages and of all fitness levels, step into health is the perfect way to kick-start a new health regime,” Al-Kuwari added. Individuals can register online at www.stepintohealth.qa. Once participants have registered, they will be given additional details on where to pick up their complimentary pedometer. As well as hosting internationally-recognized sporting events, conferences, and forums, Aspire Zone Foundation – the number one sports city in the Middle East – actively backs a variety of social development initiatives ranging from UN-backed youth leadership camps to the installation of free gym equipment for the public.