Former football star Rio Ferdinand launches One Body wellness initiative for Dubai residents

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One Body initiative brings Rio Ferdinand and Dubai Sports Council together to promote fitness, mental wellbeing and healthier lifestyles.

DUBAI: Former England football star and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has launched the One Body initiative in partnership with Dubai Sports Council, aiming to encourage healthier lifestyles and stronger mental wellbeing across the community.

The large-scale fitness event will take place at Jumeirah Beach Hotel on May 10 at 6:30am and is free for the public to attend. The One Body initiative is designed to make fitness more accessible to residents from all backgrounds, encouraging people to include physical activity in their daily routines while tackling stress linked to modern lifestyles.

Rio Ferdinand said Dubai has become one of the world’s leading destinations for community-focused wellbeing programmes and sustainable sports initiatives. He noted that the city continues to create opportunities that improve both physical and emotional health through organised activity and public engagement.

The One Body initiative will feature open fitness sessions led by Ferdinand and his wife Kate Ferdinand, who is known for her work in the wellness sector. The sessions will also include participation from international sports personalities in an interactive environment focused on motivation, movement and community connection.

Dubai Sports Council said the programme supports its wider strategy of promoting “sport for all” and encouraging residents to adopt active lifestyles regardless of age or sporting ability. Officials added that removing registration requirements reflects the initiative’s inclusive approach and allows wider public participation.

Ferdinand also highlighted the growing impact of sedentary office culture on mental health and daily wellbeing. He stressed that regular exercise plays an important role in reducing stress, improving life satisfaction and strengthening social connections.

Organisers confirmed that the first phase of the One Body initiative attracted participants from different nationalities and age groups, with further training sessions expected later this year as the programme expands across Dubai.

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