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| 113 prospective Hajj pilgrims in North Barito undergo fitness tests to ensure physical readiness and meet health requirements ahead of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. |
A total of 113 prospective Hajj pilgrims from North Barito Regency, Central Kalimantan, took part in a physical fitness assessment program as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
The activity, held in Muara Teweh, aims to ensure that pilgrims are not only spiritually and financially prepared but also physically fit to carry out the demanding series of rituals in the Holy Land.
Head of the Public Health Division at the North Barito Health Office, Inayastika, explained that the fitness test plays a key role in assessing the readiness of prospective pilgrims.
“This fitness test is an important indicator to ensure that prospective pilgrims are not only financially and spiritually ready but also physically prepared, especially in terms of cardiovascular health, including heart and lung function,” Inayastika said on Sunday in Muara Teweh.
Testing Methods Adjusted to Participants’ Conditions
The fitness assessment methods were tailored based on the participants’ age and health conditions.
Pilgrims under the age of 60 completed the Rockport method, which involves fast walking or jogging for 1.6 kilometers.
Meanwhile, elderly pilgrims or those with certain health risk factors performed a six-minute walking test under medical supervision.
Through these assessments, the medical team categorized participants’ fitness levels into:
The results will serve as a reference for recommending personalized exercise programs before departure to Saudi Arabia.
“Through this test, we can determine the fitness level of each pilgrim and provide recommendations for further physical training,” Inayastika added.
Initial Health Screening Conducted Before Fitness Test
Before undergoing the fitness test, participants were required to complete an initial health screening.
The examination included:
These steps were taken to ensure the safety of participants during the fitness evaluation process.
According to Inayastika, optimal physical readiness will greatly support pilgrims in completing physically demanding rituals during Hajj.
She expressed hope that all prospective pilgrims would prepare themselves as best as possible.
“We hope that prospective pilgrims maintain and improve their physical fitness so they can perform the Hajj comfortably, independently, and ultimately achieve a mabrur Hajj,” she said.
Hajj Requires Strong Physical Endurance
Head of the North Barito Health Office, Pariadi AR, emphasized that Hajj is not only a spiritual journey but also a physically demanding one.
He noted that major rituals such as tawaf, sa’i, and wukuf require strong stamina and endurance.
“Hajj is not only a spiritual act but also a physical one. Therefore, health capability or istithaah is a key requirement to ensure pilgrims can perform the rituals safely, smoothly, and independently,” Pariadi said during the event.
He explained that the fitness assessment aims to identify the physical condition of pilgrims early and provide suitable exercise recommendations ahead of departure.
Pilgrims Encouraged to Adopt Healthy Lifestyles
Pariadi also reminded participants that health conditions can change over time and must be maintained consistently until departure.
Prospective pilgrims were encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including:
Consuming nutritious meals
Exercising regularly at least three times per week
Maintaining an ideal body weight
Avoiding excessive physical strain
“Through this activity, we hope prospective pilgrims understand their physical condition and begin applying healthy lifestyle habits,” he added.
He also urged participants to complete the fitness test honestly according to their capabilities.
“Do not push yourself beyond your limits. Use the test results as a reference to gradually improve your fitness at home,” he stressed.
Part of Ongoing Hajj Health Development Program
The fitness assessment program is part of a broader Hajj health development initiative carried out by the North Barito Health Office medical team.
Hundreds of prospective pilgrims participated enthusiastically as an early step toward preparing for their journey to the Holy Land.
Pariadi expressed hope that all pilgrims would be granted health, ease, and smooth journeys throughout their pilgrimage.
“With the recitation of Bismillahirrahmanirrahim, I officially declare the 2026 Physical Fitness Assessment for Prospective Hajj Pilgrims of North Barito Regency open,” Pariadi stated.
FAQ
Why do prospective Hajj pilgrims need fitness tests?
Fitness tests help ensure pilgrims are physically capable of completing demanding Hajj rituals that require stamina and endurance.
What fitness methods were used in the assessment?
The Rockport method (1.6 km walk/jog) was used for participants under 60, while a six-minute walking test was used for elderly or high-risk participants.
Why is physical fitness important for Hajj?
Rituals such as tawaf, sa’i, and wukuf involve long walking distances and physical exertion.
How many pilgrims joined the test?
A total of 113 prospective Hajj pilgrims from North Barito participated in the program.
What should pilgrims do after the fitness test?
They should follow medical recommendations, exercise regularly, and maintain healthy diets.
