DUBAI: In an unprecedented fusion of fitness and aviation, the world’s busiest international airport, has made history by converting one of its runways into an open-air cycling studio.
Partnering with homegrown fitness brand CRANK as part of the ongoing Dubai Fitness Challenge 2024, Dubai International (DXB) hosted the world’s first-ever cycling class on an active runway amidst the exhilarating backdrop of aircraft taking off and landing.
What happened at DXB?
For the first time ever, DXB’s iconic runway was transformed into a high-energy fitness playground as CRANK hosted a cycling session amidst the backdrop of roaring jets.
Fitness enthusiasts pedaled through a fast-paced, immersive workout, keeping time to the beats of a silent disco while witnessing aircrafts take off and land just beyond their handlebars.
This unforgettable event invited travellers, employees, and fitness lovers to swap terminals for bicycles and take part in an event that fused wellness and aviation in an unprecedented way.
CRANK's immersive cycling session, hosted in collaboration with Dubai Airports, marked a significant highlight of Dubai Fitness Challenge 2024—a citywide initiative that encourages residents and visitors to complete 30 minutes of exercise every day for 30 days.
Who was behind it?
Michelle Lee, Vice President of Brand & Communications at Dubai Airports, praised the unique event: “This event is about redefining possibilities, elevating both fitness and our commitment to delivering extraordinary moments for our community. We didn’t just organise a workout; we curated a unique experience that seamlessly blended movement, music and aviation in a way that only DXB can achieve.
“A huge thank you to our incredible team that brought this unprecedented cycling event to life. Your commitment and energy made it a reality, and it’s a testament to what we can all achieve together. And a special thanks to CRANK; we are proud to be partnering with a successful home-grown brand that shares our ambition of delivering unique and memorable experiences.”
Nuno Costa, co-founder of CRANK, echoed her sentiments: “This event is truly one for the history books. To bring CRANK, a home-grown brand that shares Dubai’s spirit of innovation and ambition, to the busiest international airport in the world is something that’s never been done before.
“Turning DXB’s iconic runway into a fitness playground is about more than just a workout; it’s about showcasing the limitless possibilities that define both CRANK and Dubai. We’re incredibly proud to be part of this groundbreaking moment.”
The event also marked a significant milestone in Dubai Airports' wellness initiatives, reflecting their ongoing efforts to enhance the traveller experience. As part of the airport’s larger "Take Off to Wellness" campaign, the collaboration with CRANK highlighted the growing importance of integrating wellness activities into travel. The seamless integration of fitness into an active runway demonstrated Dubai Airports' commitment to redefining travel with creativity and care for travellers.