The Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamadingba, Ibadan was enlivened on Monday as the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State Chapter held its maiden Annual Ramadan lecture.
The lecture titled: Sporting Activities during Ramadan: Facts and Myths was delivered by the Chief Executive Officer of Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Centre, Alhaja Ambassador Rahamat Romoke Ayinde.
She describing sporting activities as the state of being active in one form of sport, exercise or another, adding that human beings need to replenish.
She opined that sportsmen and women need to practice physical activities during the Ramadan period, adding that such activities will not only help in enhancing their performance but will put them in good form to participate in both national and international competition.
“It will be a misnomer for any athlete to get off training for a whole month, as such athlete will definitely lose form, hence, training is a continuous exercise for any athlete – Muslim or non Muslim,” she said.
She adduced that research has shown that fasting for thirty consecutive days without performing any physical activities reduces strength and physical fitness, hence the need for Muslims to remain active in the month of Ramadan in order to stay healthy.
“There are no scientific bases for the belief that fasting increases cortisol level that can lead to problems such as muscle loss, only that fasting can change cortisol rhythm.”
She, however, debunked the myth that sporting activities during Ramadan fasting period lowers blood sugar level.
Her words: “During fasting period, your body switches to fat burning mode through the process called fatty acid oxidation. This in essence is the changing of fats in our body from its acidic nature to something positive to our living.”
Ambassador Romoke-Ayinde cautioned athletes not to be gluttonous, adding that fasting during Ramadan with sporting activities should be encouraged as it helps to keep the body and soul fit.
She stressed that moderate exercises are advised. “Individuals should consult their physician before starting any physical activity.
“Brisk walk, slow jogging, cycling and light machine exercises at the gym for the Ramadan are encouraged.
“One should avoid games like squash, lawn tennis especially any racket games during Ramadan, while eating a balanced diet and taking adequate amount of liquids and carbohydrates are necessary to help maintain a healthy exercise routine during the period,” she enthused.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Oyo State SWAN Chairman, Niyi Alebiosu, while expressing happiness at the well attended event, disclosed that the lecture would henceforth be an annual event.
In his own remarks, the Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Oyo State Council, Comrade Adewunmi Faniran lauded the organisers of the lecture and urged the state chapter of SWAN to keep the flag of good governance aloft.
Dignitaries present at the occasion were NUJ Secretary, Oyo State Council. Bola Ogunlayi, General manager Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), Alhaji Rashidi Balogun and General Manager Oyo State Sports Council, Gboyega Makinde. Veteran Sports Journalist, Ade Somefun and the Chief Executive Officer, Frenage Soccer Academy, Prince Oluwole Ololade were also among those in attendance.
Packaged by Olanrewaju Agiri
