Young people are being urged not to miss out on a fantastic initiative by MPAC Sports, who are offering children and teenagers aged between five and 18 free fitness and basketball sessions.

Nowadays, in order to take part in any sporting activity at a club it usually involves paying a fee, and sometimes that’s quite hefty. But this unique project by MPAC Sports, an American firm who have been operating in the UAE since 2007, is refreshingly different.

“Anyone who has seen kids on a playground knows that most are naturally physically active and love to move around,” said Ahmad Zahdan at MPAC Sports.

“But what might not be apparent is that playing sports and dribbling a basketball can help kids live a longer and healthier life."

“As they get older, it can be a challenge for kids to get enough daily activity in this region. Reasons include increasing school work, the weather, a feeling among some kids that they aren’t good at sports, a lack of active role models, and busy working families.

"And even if kids have the time and the desire to be active, parents may not feel comfortable letting them freely roam the parks or enrol them at a pricey health club or gym.

“Hence, their opportunities might be limited, that is until now with these free basketball sessions.

“Despite these barriers, parents can instil a love for being healthy and active and help kids fit it into their everyday routine. Doing so can establish healthy patterns that will last into adulthood,” added Zahdan.

Activities have been drawn up keeping in mind the different age categories. The 16:00 to 17:00 session is designed for four to seven-year olds, while the 17:15 to 18:15 session will cater to eight to 11-year olds.

For those between 12-18, classes will be held from 18:30 to 20:00, Sundays to Thursdays at Al Ittihad School, Jumeirah, Dubai.

Zahdan says that one coach will be allotted for every 10 students per session.

“The first half of the class will concentrate on core strengthening and a lot of cardio,stretching, warm-ups while the second half will involve playing basketball matches and improving the child’s skills.

“When kids enjoy an activity, they want to do more of it. Practicing a skill improves their abilities and helps kids feel accomplished, especially when the effort is noticed and praised. These good feelings often make kids want to continue the activity and even try out other activities.”

With a variety of sports played around the world, Zahdan explains why MPAC chose basketball.

“Basketball is our speciality sport. All of our coaches are former NCAA Division 1 players from the US, and also as it’s a sport that can be played indoors,” said Zahdan.

“There’s an abundance of indoor basketball courts in the UAE. Also, it’s one of those sporting disciplines that combines team work and fitness.”

If you would like to take part in the free basketball sessions, email info@mpacsports.com or call 04 385 1777 for more information. Ensure to book your place 24 hours before your preferred session.

Free sessions will run until the end of December.

What: Free basketball and fitness sessions by MPAC Sports
When: Sunday to Thursdays
Where: Al Ittihad School, Jumeirah, Dubai
Contact: Email: info@mpacsports.com, or call 04 385 1777