Mega sports: Promoting health and wellbeing

A mega sporting event is an international large-scale event involving a large number of international athletes, such as the Olympics and FIFA World Cups. The FIFA World Cup 2022^TM will be hosted in Qatar from November 20 to December 18, 2022. Major infrastructure projects have been built to prepare for the World Cup in Qatar. These new projects include eight World Cup stadiums, parks, highways, bridges, and metro and trams. These projects have the potential to improve population health and well-being in the following ways:

Physical Activity
The new infrastructure and public transportation system provide the people of Qatar with better accessibility around the country, the ability to enjoy entertainment opportunities and engage in physical activity at the same time. People can increase their physical activity levels by using public transportation and taking advantage of the new trails laid out for walking, biking, and running. For instance, the West Bay trail connects to Al Bidda Park and Lusail City. The 12 km Lusail Marina Promenade consists of scenic views along with walking and exercise pathways.

For good health, the World Health Organization recommends 150-300 minutes of physical activity a week for adults. Being physically inactive is one of the most common risk factors for non-communicable diseases, worldwide. Physical activity reduces the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and mental health disorders (like depression and anxiety). Additionally, staying physically active improves overall wellbeing, supports self-esteem, and boosts your mood. Try to visit one of the local parks in Qatar to enjoy outdoor physical activity.

Environmental Health
Increased use of public transportation reduces the number of cars on the road, which leads to reduced carbon emissions. Additionally, Qatar is planting trees to reduce its carbon footprint. Reduction of carbon emissions helps improve air quality, resulting in a positive impact on population health. Try using public transportation in your daily commute to work or school. Check out the Mowasalat website for up-to-date information on bus and metro routes in your area.

Social Connections
Another benefit of the public transportation project is that it gives people access to several destinations in Qatar, such as recreational parks, and malls, and helps families and friends to meet up and socialize. Positive social connections improve population well-being, provide motivation for healthy behaviors, and enhance longevity. They also help people maintain a healthy body mass index, manage blood sugar levels, decrease symptoms of depression, and improve overall mental health.

Take the opportunity to use public transportation in your daily work commute or for meeting up with family and friends. The FIFA World Cup 2022^TM provides a great opportunity to socially connect with fans from all over the world. Stay up to date through the Qatar 2022 website for updates to public transportation and for upcoming events and activities.