Bachelor of Health Promotion student Chloe Singleton has been blogging her experiences as a fitness and health promotion instructor based at a sports academy in Qatar, as part of her professional practice evaluation.

She's been reporting on some interesting feedback from women involved with body analysis testing as part of their fitness plan.

Chloe Singleton ... living and studying in Qatar

"Many of the women thought they would not burn calories if they drank during exercising," she said.

"When we asked in the nutrition questionnaire if our women did most of the cooking in the home, the percentage was higher for 'Yes', yet it is general knowledge that most house maids in this Middle Eastern country do the general cooking," Chloe says.

"When one of our dieticians became sceptical and asked what the client usually cooks for her family, she answered that she 'always cooks the coffee and tea'.

"I should have asked whether they prepare the food for their family. If they do not cook for their family, how can they know exactly what they are eating."

Chloe says there's a mix of clothing choices in the gymnasium, although the traditional Habia can't be worn due to safety reasons.

"Some women wear the latest funky work-out wear from Nike and Addidas, with tight and revealing gear, while others wear baggy and loose clothing. The most unusual gear is worn in the swimming pool.

"We offered educational classes in the beginning about the correct shoes to wear, clothing, and personal hygiene, such as wearing deodorant and sports bras. In the beginning many clients wore sandles and even ballet flats to work out in."

CQUniversity lecturer Cathy O'Mullan says the Health Promotion in Practice Placement enables students to gain some real-world experience. In this case, Chloe has had the opportunity to plan and implement a healthy lifestyle project within her sports academy.

Chloe originally travelled to work in Qatar for the Asian Games held in 2006, having previously worked in Dubai.

Now married with a toddler son and another baby due any moment, she says there are many restrictions imposed on females but these have been relaxed in recent years.

"I can drive and I can drink alcohol, although not in public of course, and I wear clothing covering from knees to shoulders.

"Working for a government company in Qatar, I get 40 days' paid holiday a year; I get a free ticket home each year and it is a tax-free country. There are lots of perks, but also a few sacrifices, such as missing family and the lifestyle of back home.

"Longer term I'd like to graduate with a Masters degree in Occupational Health and Safety and eventually get into the oil/ gas or mining industry. I'd also like to move to another country for a new adventure."