Abu Dhabi: 4,000 people complete 1km walk in 24 hours for new Guinness World Record
PureHealth’s Pura App and Active Abu Dhabi celebrate record success in community health
ABU DHABI: PureHealth and Active Abu Dhabi have officially set a Guinness World Records title for the most people to complete a remote 1km walk in 24 hours.
With nearly 4,000 participants from across the UAE taking part in this monumental achievement on November 29, 2024, the event surpassed the minimum requirement of 250 walkers.
This record-breaking initiative, in collaboration with Emirates Foundation, was designed to encourage physical activity, foster community engagement, and promote healthier lifestyles.
The record was powered by Pura, the cutting-edge app developed by PureHealth. Pura’s innovative GPS technology enabled participants to track their walking progress in real-time, ensuring a smooth and interactive experience. Whether walking at home, in parks, or on the streets, participants were able to engage fully with the challenge, demonstrating the app's ability to connect individuals remotely while promoting a shared sense of accomplishment.
“The success of this initiative is not just about setting a record; it's about sparking a movement,” said Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer of PureHealth. She highlighted how the event reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to empower people to lead healthier, more active lives through simple yet impactful habits.
United for a healthier UAE
The event, spearheaded by Active Abu Dhabi, reflects the power of collaboration in building a healthier society. “This record is a testament to the collective dedication and spirit of our community,” stated Ahmed Taleb AlShamsi, CEO of the Emirates Foundation. He expressed immense pride in the achievement, underscoring the importance of a unified approach to improving public health.
Mansoor Al Dhaheri, Founder of Active Abu Dhabi, also celebrated the accomplishment. “The enthusiasm and participation were inspiring,” he said. “This milestone is just the beginning of our mission to drive long-lasting, positive changes in the UAE.” The initiative's focus is not only on encouraging physical activity but also on promoting cultural values and environmental sustainability.
Walking for better health
Walking, one of the simplest yet most beneficial forms of exercise, has long been championed by Active Abu Dhabi. Research shows that adding just 1,000 steps to one’s daily routine – about 10 minutes of brisk walking – can reduce the risk of mortality by up to 15 percent. This simple change can significantly enhance longevity and quality of life.
Active Abu Dhabi’s previous success with the Walk1000 initiative, which saw athletes walk a 1,000-kilometre route through the Abu Dhabi desert, reinforced the power of walking as a tool for promoting resilience, unity, and healthy living.
PureHealth’s wellness commitment
Through initiatives like this record-breaking challenge, PureHealth continues to empower individuals to take control of their health and adopt sustainable habits. By providing platforms like Pura, which facilitate participation in events and encourage active living, PureHealth remains at the forefront of promoting wellness in the UAE.
Active Abu Dhabi, a cornerstone of the UAE's push towards holistic health, continues to lead the charge in community-driven efforts, setting the stage for further advancements in public health initiatives.