Aspetar, Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, continues to stand out as a distinguished model combining scientific innovation and community service, as the State of Qatar celebrates National Sport Day 2026. As a world-class medical and research centre, Aspetar plays an active role in advancing Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting a healthier and more active society.

Aspetar encourages all members of the community to embrace regular physical activity through the National Physical Activity Guidelines for Qatar, which are continuously updated based on the latest scientific research.

Acting Director General of Aspetar, Mr. Khalid Ali Al Mawlawi, said:

“At Aspetar, we believe that sport is a fundamental pillar of building a healthy and progressive society. Physical activity is not just exercise — it is a lifestyle that enhances health, wellbeing, and safety. Our approach to sports medicine goes beyond treatment; it empowers individuals to move intelligently, safely, and sustainably.”

Scientific Foundations for a Healthier Community

Aspetar has launched the National Physical Activity Guidelines for Qatar, a trusted national reference that helps community members, fitness enthusiasts, and amateur athletes adopt a more active and healthier lifestyle. The guidelines aim to improve public health and prevent chronic diseases through simple, yet effective advice centered on regular movement rather than medication alone.

The guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week for adults, and 60 minutes daily for children, with tailored advice for specific groups such as pregnant women and older adults. They highlight the proven benefits of physical activity in reducing the risk of more than 40 chronic conditions commonly seen in primary care, including diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

The document also introduces the concept of a “movement prescription,” based on four elements—frequency, intensity, type, and duration—to help design exercise programs suited to everyone’s needs and abilities. It offers practical examples of daily activities that meet these recommendations while emphasizing reduced sitting time and integrating movement into everyday routines.  

Interactive Sports Podiatry Activation

As part of its National Sport Day celebrations, Aspetar will host an interactive event designed to raise health and wellness awareness among its staff and athletes. The Departments of Physiotherapy and Sports Podiatry will organize a two-day activity on Sunday and Monday, 8–9 February 2026, at Aspetar’s West Building under the theme “Steps Towards Better Health.”

Participants will have the opportunity to assess their personal “walking and running patterns” using state-of-the-art motion analysis systems typically used in evaluating elite athletes. Aspetar’s expert team will provide on-the-spot movement assessments, personalized advice on foot health, guidance on choosing the right footwear, and tips on injury prevention.

Through this initiative, Aspetar aims to inspire all staff members to adopt a more active and healthier lifestyle, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and shared wellbeing that defines the Aspetar community.

A Blend of Science and Celebration within Aspire Zone Activities

This year, Aspetar will also participate in the Aspire Zone Foundation’s National Sport Day activities at Aspire Park (Pitches 10 and 11). Aspetar will offer mobile health units providing free health checkups including blood pressure, glucose, and nutrition consultations—along with educational sessions focused on healthy eating.

Furthermore, Aspetar continues to contribute indirectly to Sport Day activities through the safety protocols it has developed for athletes and the public, reinforcing safe and effective participation in sports.

Nutrition and Injury Prevention for Runners

Beyond medical services, Aspetar maintains its strong commitment to public education. The Sports Nutrition department has launched a comprehensive digital platform providing credible information on the safe use of dietary supplements, addressing common questions and empowering active individuals with reliable knowledge.

Additionally, the department recently published a scientific study exploring the relationship between nutrition and bone injuries among runners, particularly stress-related bone injuries caused by repetitive strain. The study highlighted the importance of maintaining energy balance and adequate nutrient intake to support bone and muscle health. It identified low energy availability, vitamin D deficiency, and hormonal imbalances as key risk factors, emphasizing the need for a holistic nutritional approach to enhance long-term performance and wellbeing.

These initiatives reaffirm Aspetar’s continuing leadership in sports medicine and community health awareness, strengthening its position as a global center dedicated to playing sports a safe, sustainable, and healthy way of life for everyone in Qatar.  

About Aspetar:

Aspetar is a world-leading specialised orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital and the first of its kind in the Middle East. Since 2007, with a world expert team, the hospital has provided top-level comprehensive medical treatment to all athletes in a state-of-the-art facility that sets new standards internationally.

In 2009, Aspetar was accredited as a “FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence” by F-MARC. In 2013, Aspetar was adopted as a reference collaborator centre by the Gulf Countries Council (GCC) Health Ministers Council and “The IOC Research Centre for Prevention of Injury and Protection of Athlete Health” in 2014.

In 2015, Aspetar has been recognised as the “IHF Reference Centre for Athlete and Referee Health”. In the same year, the hospital also achieved obtained-on December 15 the Accreditation Canada International (ACI) “Platinum Level”.

Aspetar is a member–organisation of Aspire Zone Foundation, Qatar’s innovative sports and healthy lifestyle destination.