Dr. Mahfoud Amara
The intersection of sport and Ramadan has sparked numerous debates within the realm of sports and beyond. Primarily examined from exercise physiology standpoints, discussions often revolved around the effect of fasting on sports activity, sports performance, and the health of the participants and athletes. Several variables need to be considered here regarding the timing of fasting. Our bodies adapt differently to fasting, whether it occurs in the initial days, mid-month, or towards the end of Ramadan. It depends on the intensity of the physical effort, for instance, walking or running before Iftar or after. It also depends for athletes and professional players on the timing of training and the scheduling of the competitions before and after iftar.
For practicing Muslim professional players in a non-majority Muslim context, the adjustment would be different as some leagues may permit brief interruptions for players to break their fast, while others do not. This places the athlete in a delicate position to reconcile between his or her faith and the demands of elite sports performance. Athletes often find themselves torn between the discipline required for their sport and the social pressure to immerse themselves in the Ramadan atmosphere. Beyond the physiological realm, the discourse on Ramadan and sport delves into spiritual and faith-based dimensions. Ramadan serves as a time for reflection, prayer, and heightened spirituality, and can impact positively on fasting athletes’ mental states and performance.
Moreover, Ramadan fosters social cohesion within teams and a sense of solidarity, especially when observed in non-Muslim environments. It provides an opportunity for clubs and leagues to demonstrate corporate social responsibility by engaging with the community and offering support to the less fortunate. The moment of breaking the fast on the pitch during a match also fosters tolerance and acceptance of cultural and religious diversity among supporters.
Furthermore, an economic dimension emerges, particularly in professional sports and leagues, where revenue and performance are intertwined. The economic argument of return on investment and contractual obligations can intersect with the religious practices of athletes, potentially leading to political and ideological interpretations of fasting. In other words, fasting can be seen as a form of political and religious expression that challenges and undermines the secular and commercial norms of sport (and society).
In conclusion, while the physiological effects of fasting on sports performance are significant, they are but one aspect of a complex interplay between faith, social dynamics, and economic considerations. Muslim athletes in non-majority Muslim contexts face unique challenges in navigating their religious obligations and elite sport performance and competition. It underscores the delicate balance athletes must strike between their athletic pursuits and spiritual commitments.
Dr. Mahfoud Amara is an Associate Professor in Sport Social Sciences and Management at Qatar University.
Dr. Mahfoud Amara is an Associate Professor in Sport Social Sciences and Management at Qatar University.
