We here at OutdoorUAE love it so much when we hear of amazing people via the community. We’re a magazine that is founded on the idea of being close to the community as much as possible. So when the people told us about the amazing story of Masooma – or Mas as she is popularly known within the cycling world, we just had to sit down with her and ask her about the life and times of an Emirati cyclist.
How did your cycling story start?
My passion for cycling started in 2013 when I saw a bunch of elite cyclists riding on the road riding very professionally. The image of that peloton was so powerful that I immediately fell in love with it. So I said to myself, “I want to be like them”.
Tell us a little about your training regimen…
My daily training is usually made up of a 30 – 40k steady ride. In the weekends, I do longer distances with a group with some hard spinning.
What are some of the difficulties that cyclists experience here in the United Arab Emirates and how can you as a cyclist help out?
For me the main difficulty is the lack of cycling tracks and areas. Since it’s very dangerous to ride on the public roads, we are forced to use tracks. Currently we have the Al Qudra Cycling Path which is the biggest one. It’s quite difficult to travel for almost 40 minutes there for just a little spinning after work.
What should our readers, especially female readers know when they would like to try cycling out?
– Give yourself enough time to learn it and go the distance. The more you ride, the better you can sync hronize with your bike.
– Do not compare yourself to the pros, rather observe your progress.
– Keep yourself hydrated all the time, eat well and healthy. This sport requires a lot of physical stamina so you will need all your energy.
– Get the right bike with the right fitting. Riding the wrong bike will affect your performance and can cause injuries.
– Enjoy your ride. It will keep you on the saddle longer.
Does being a woman in the cycling community have its perks?
It definitely has some advantages in my opinion. Since this sport is just growing amongst women in the UAE, the general interest is at its peak. I see new faces joining our team every time with a great desire to continue learning the techniques and getting stronger. Second, being a women cyclist in my community is not a common thing and it has its own challenges, but it’s attractive in its own way and encourages more women to take up cycling.
Are you involved in any other outdoor activities?
I have recently started running but at a beginner level.
For you, what’s so special about taking your bike for a spin?
I feel free when I’m on the bike and I get a sense of power. It releases stress and leaves you with a positive feeling both physically and mentally. The more time I spend on my bike, the more my body engages with every movement. Your bike becomes an extension of your body.
Are you preparing for any events? What’s next for you?
I like to participate in more races specially women’s’ events. My main reason for that is to gain experience and compare myself to those on the same level as me. I’m also looking forward to race in the Spinneys Dubai 92 which is coming in two months.
Age: 35
Nationality: Emirati
Occupation: Sales Quality Manager
