I have never played pickleball in my life before. In fact, I wasn’t even aware that it was a sport until my parents took it up earlier this year. They’d been trying to get me to join them, but I was always too busy… or just too tired! This time, however, I finally decided to give it a shot. I thought to myself, “It can’t be that hard and it should be quite fun… right?” 

We arranged for me to try out this trending sport at the pickleball court near my home during one of my parents’ pickleball sessions with their friends. Reaching the court, I was immediately intimidated. Everyone seemed to have been playing for a long time, and I felt like the only inexperienced player there!  

Starting something new can always be a little scary, but I reminded myself that it’s better to face my fears and experience it than miss the chance to do it at all! So, I took a deep breath, stepped onto the court, and started warming up. After stretching, I approached my dad, who’s my trainer, to teach me the basics.  

Learning The Ropes 

I was already quite familiar with the rules of pickleball, having done some research on my own prior to this session. My dad showed me how to hold the paddle and how to swing properly to hit the ball with power and accuracy. It was a bit tricky to get used to it since the type of ball sports that I am used to are games like netball.  

However, despite the initial awkwardness, I found the learning process really enjoyable. There’s a satisfying feeling and sound that came with hitting the ball just right, and it motivated me to keep trying.  

Once I got the hang of swinging and serving, we decided to start a match. 

Let’s Get Started! 

It was nerve-wracking, but it was also incredibly fun. I definitely had moments of discouragement, like when I kept hitting the ball wrongly or missing it entirely. But the people around me were so encouraging, constantly telling me that it was okay to make mistakes since it was my first time playing.  

I obviously lost every single match, but as time went on, I could feel myself improving my skills. I felt more comfortable on the court and even managed to almost win one of the matches. I have a feeling they might have gone easy on me, but a win is a win in spirit! 

More Than Just A Game 

The experience of my first pickleball game was truly positive, and I’m already looking forward to joining my parents more often. Now I understand why they are always so excited every evening to go out and play with their friends!  

In fact, I’m thinking of checking out the pickleball courts at SAFRA Yishun. My parents have played there before and they told me that they have great facilities, and it will be a perfect spot to hone my skills and perhaps even play with some new people. Moreover, it is affordable and also very convenient location wise! 

The pickleball community is truly amazing. Everyone was so welcoming and kind, and I’m so glad I had such a positive environment for my first experience. It’s not just about the game itself, but the people who play it that make the experience so much fun. If you’ve ever thought about starting, this is your sign! Take the leap, grab a paddle, and hit the court. You definitely won’t regret it! 

Want to try your hand at pickleball too? Book a game or two at our pickleball courts available at SAFRA Tampines, SAFRA Jurong, SAFRA Yishun or SAFRA Mount Faber. Click here for more information.

SAFRA members pay lower rates starting from $3.30/hr, while public rates start from $5.10/hr, making it more affordable for members to enjoy pickleball courts across SAFRA locations. Plus, members get exclusive online booking privileges and complimentary equipment rental for a limited time. Complimentary rental of paddles and balls is available by request.

The post POV: I Tried The Trending Sport Pickleball For The First Time appeared first on eNSMAN.

Pickleball – once seen as a retirement sport – is now one of the fastest-growing games in Singapore and around the world. A fun, fast-paced hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, it’s easy to pick up but tricky to master. Whether you’re playing casually at your SAFRA clubhouse courts or getting serious about weekend matches, improving your pickleball game is as rewarding as it is social. 

We’ve rounded up 10 practical, beginner-to-intermediate-friendly tips to help you elevate your skills, win more rallies, and enjoy the game even more. 

1. Master the Ready Position

Your stance is everything. Stay light on your feet with knees slightly bent, weight forward, and paddle up in front of you at chest height. This “ready” position ensures you can react swiftly to balls coming at any angle – especially during fast exchanges at the net. Don’t rest your paddle low or by your side – you’ll lose precious reaction time.

2. Dink With Purpose, Not Power

Dinking is a soft shot that lands in the opponent’s no-volley zone (a.k.a. “the kitchen”). It might look easy, but it’s a strategic weapon. Focus on control and finesse over brute force. Aim for low, arcing dinks that bounce near your opponent’s feet – making it hard for them to attack without popping the ball up. Patience is key here: wait for your chance to strike.  

3. Serve Deep and Keep It Legal

While pickleball serves must be underhand and below the waist, that doesn’t mean they can’t be effective. The goal is consistency and placement, not speed. Serve deep toward the baseline to keep opponents pinned back and reduce their attack options. Vary your targets to keep them guessing, but always prioritise getting the serve in – an unforced error gives away free points. 

4. Respect the Kitchen

The “no-volley zone” or “kitchen” extends 7 feet from the net on either side. You can’t volley (hit the ball out of the air) while standing in this zone. Many players get caught forgetting this. Step into the kitchen only to hit a dink or drop shot, then step back immediately. Hover just behind the line for optimal positioning during net play. 

5. Communicate Clearly in Doubles

Pickleball is often played in doubles, and like any team sport, communication is critical. Call out “mine,” “yours,” or “leave it” to avoid confusion. Discuss strategy before the match – who takes lobs, who covers middle shots, etc. Miscommunication can cost you easy points, especially when both players hesitate or go for the same ball. 

6. Watch the Ball – Not the Opponent

It’s easy to get distracted by your opponent’s movements or paddle. But the real secret to better shot accuracy is simple: watch the ball all the way to your paddle. Keep your eye on it through contact to reduce mishits and increase control. This is especially important during fast-paced volleys or return-of-serve situations.

7. Use the Third Shot Drop Wisely

After the serve and return, the third shot often sets the tone for the rally. Rather than smashing, try a third shot drop – a soft, arcing shot that lands gently in the kitchen. It gives you time to advance to the net (where most points are won) and resets the rally in your favour. This technique takes practice, but it’s a game-changer once mastered.

8. Footwork Over Power

You don’t need to hit like a tennis pro to be effective in pickleball. Often, it’s your footwork that wins the point. Take small, quick steps to stay balanced and ready to adjust. Avoid lunging or overreaching it throws off your timing and increases the chance of injury. Think of it as a dance: controlled, fluid, and always on your toes. 

9. Be Patient – Wait for the Right Shot

In pickleball, patience truly is a virtue. Rushing to smash every ball often backfires, especially against experienced players who know how to redirect pace. Instead, build the point. Keep the rally going with smart dinks or deep resets, and wait for a ball that’s high enough to attack. Smart shot selection beats brute force every time.

10. Have Fun and Keep It Social

At its heart, pickleball is about fun and community. Whether you’re playing competitively or just rallying with friends, enjoy the moments in between points. Laugh off mistakes, celebrate good rallies, and don’t be afraid to play with new partners or players of different levels. The more you play, the more you learn – and the more enjoyable it becomes. 

Ready to Rally? 

Pickleball is here to stay – and with SAFRA clubs offering courts and growing interest among NSmen and families, there’s no better time to jump in. So grab your paddle, apply these tips, and see how your game levels up. 

See you on the court!  

Ready to level up your pickleball skills? Grab your bro or bestie and book a game or two at our pickleball courts available at SAFRA Tampines, SAFRA Jurong, SAFRA Yishun or SAFRA Mount Faber. Click here for more information.

SAFRA members pay lower rates starting from $3.30/hr, while public rates start from $5.10/hr, making it more affordable for members to enjoy pickleball courts across SAFRA locations. Plus, members get exclusive online booking privileges and complimentary equipment rental for a limited time. Complimentary rental of paddles and balls is available by request.

The post Paddle Up: Top 10 Pickleball Tips to Step Up Your Game appeared first on eNSMAN.

Exercising has become a part of daily activities for most people in Singapore. It is not only essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and it also helps to ease the stress and exhaustion from daily work. There are many different options to incorporate exercise into your daily life: you could have a walk in the park or lift some weights in the gym. But many of us simply don’t have the time to step out of the house or commit to a rigid routine. 

Here comes the solution: Pilates. 

As a system of exercise that is designed to improve your physical strength, flexibility and posture, Pilates is simple (or so it seems) and convenient. All you need is a soft Pilates mat and you’re all set! You can do it anywhere and anytime; it’s the perfect exercise for people who can’t get out of the house. But what if you don’t know how to do Pilates? Don’t worry, because there are classes where you can learn! 

Pilates: The Easy Part 

As someone who has never done Pilates before, I have always been interested in it, but I was worried that I would injure myself in the process. So, I decided to try out a class with my internship colleague, Farhah. We went to a Pilates class at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang and we got to experience for ourselves what Pilates really is like. 

Going into the class, I did not have much expectations. Because of the lack of expectations, I was also a bit scared. The first part was still easy and doable, just a few simple breathing exercises and meditation. This really helped me relax my body and everything felt peaceful. But the peace did not last… For the next part, when I say nothing, I mean NOTHING could have prepared me for what I was about to go through! 

Stretching My Muscles To Its Limits 

Before I knew it, I was getting my body into many different positions – I was lying on my back, on my tummy, my sides, all while using the other different body parts to support my weight and balance out. I stretched every muscle in my body, even parts of it that I didn’t even realise existed. 

There were certain moves I found easy, like the bridge and the single leg stretch. Those were simple enough for me to execute and not subject my body to too much aches. But the other moves were on another whole new level altogether.  

The exercises I found the toughest were the ones that required me to use my core. I had to lift my neck while keeping my legs elevated at different angles, which made my core hurt so much. Another one was called “Swimming”, where we laid on our tummies and our limbs were off the ground. I found the look of the move to be very funny, but I immediately stopped laughing once I began “swimming”.  

After doing all of that, we had to roll like a ball and rely on our core to roll ourselves backwards and forwards, which was so tough for me. I struggled to roll myself forward, making a funny moment for me and Farhah to giggle about. 

Some of the moves literally had my limbs shaking from just how much strength I had to exert; it was exhausting to say the least! Looking at all the other students, I was impressed at just how strong they were. Some of them were much older than me, yet they were executing the moves much better than me, they were barely even breaking a sweat! I guessed they must have had lots of practice. 

Final Thoughts 

I have never felt so relieved in my life when I stepped out of that room. My initial impression of Pilates being a relaxing and easy exercise were debunked from the get-go. I am someone whose only form of exercise consists of just taking slow walks, so this definitely tested my limits.  

Pilates has also made me realise just how inflexible I am, but it also helped me stretch my muscles and even discover new ones. Will I do this again? Probably! It definitely loosened my body and the less strenuous exercises helped me relax quite a bit. Not only that, it is super convenient as I just need a gym mat and I can do it at home too… now that I have some knowledge on how to! 

Want to try getting into Pilates? Click here for more information on the Mat Pilates lessons at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang and sign up today. 

SAFRA Members’ Perk: Enjoy special price of $16.40 per lesson when you sign up. 

The post POV: Is Pilates Really That Hard? appeared first on eNSMAN.

With the rise of healthy living and keeping up with today’s beauty standards, many Singaporeans are hitting the gyms to keep in shape nowadays. Not only is it a convenient way to exercise, but gyms generally also have high quality, professional equipment that you probably cannot find elsewhere. 

For those of you who haven’t been to the gym, there may be many reasons as to why you wouldn’t visit one. It could be due to the price of memberships, or being afraid to exercise with other people. For me, it is both.  

Plus, I have trepidations of injuring myself due to unfamiliarity with the gym equipment. Coupled with me being so afraid of others judging me as I work out, these reasons made me avoid going to the gym altogether. 

However, I decided to conquer my fears and visit a gym for the first time. I went to the EnergyOne Gym at SAFRA Mount Faber, alongside my internship colleague, Farhah. 

First Impressions 

Stepping into EnergyOne Gym, I found the place to be quite modern and bright with a cheery atmosphere. It gave me a rather refreshing vibe and made me feel welcomed. The moment we entered, a staff member from the counter greeted us and handed us our towels and keys for our lockers.  

I was pleasantly surprised by the friendly customer service and it dissolved some of my fears. We went to the locker room which was connected to the restrooms, where there’s access to the shower cubicles as well as a saunasteam room. 

Time To Work Out 

After storing my belongings in the lockers, it was time to exercise! For a newbie like me, I was advised to start with something simple like the treadmill. Getting on one, I realised how comfortable it was to walk on a treadmill. I immediately felt assured that the machine can give me a good workout safely.  

I started walking and although it took awhile for me to get used to it (hey, it’s not every day that you get to walk normally but stay in the same spot!), I eventually got into the rhythm of it. For my colleague, she tried out the other equipment like the Stairmaster and it’s safe to say most of the machines here were easy and intuitive to use. 

Walking on the treadmill might be a simpler workout option compared to the other equipment, but it definitely helped me become more comfortable being in a gym. I was so focused on myself that I didn’t think about other people judging me.  

Everyone at the gym seemed to be doing their own thing, concentrating on their personal workouts, making me realise that there was no reason to be worried at all. 

Final Thoughts 

With my experience at EnergyOne Gym, I have definitely conquered my fears of vising the gym for the first time. The staff made me feel welcomed and all the equipment there were of professional quality and easy to use even for newbies. I also felt more energised after a great workout, and definitely felt like I lost some weight from my binge the day before (a bonus!). 

Additionally, I find the membership fees here to be reasonably priced also, starting from $50 per month. For students aged 16 to 21, there is a special membership which cost just $35 per month. With this price, not only can you get to work out using trusted gym equipment, but also experience friendly customer service and free access to facilities, including the swimming pool and jacuzzi!  

As someone who has never been to the gym, my first time at EnergyOne Gym was most highly enjoyable and I will definitely be going back there soon! Consider me now a “gym convert”!  

Want to experience EnergyOne Gym too? Sign up for a gym membership today here! SAFRA Members Exclusive: Receive special perks when you sign up if you are a SAFRA member. 

The post POV: Conquering Our Fears For The First Time In A Gym appeared first on eNSMAN.

Each year, thousands of swimmers dive into the waters for SAFRA Swim For Hope – not just for the challenge, but for a cause greater than themselves. Since its launch, the event has become a hallmark of SAFRA’s calendar, blending fitness, camaraderie and philanthropy. Returning this year with fresh energy, SAFRA Swim For Hope will once again offer participants a chance to push their limits while raising funds for worthy beneficiaries.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer aiming to crush your personal best or a first-timer dipping your toes into the event, preparation is key. Here’s how you can get yourself pool-ready – body, mind, and spirit.

1. Train Smart, Not Just Hard

Jumping into the pool and cranking out endless laps isn’t the only way to prep. Build a progressive training plan that balances endurance with technique. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase your swim time each week. Focus on form: efficient strokes reduce fatigue and make long distances more manageable. Complement your swim sessions with land training – simple exercises like planks, squats, and resistance band work can strengthen your core and shoulders, giving you more power in the water.

2. Gear Up Right

The right gear makes all the difference. Invest in a comfortable pair of goggles that won’t fog up mid-lap, a snug cap, and a well-fitted swimsuit designed for performance. If you’re tackling longer distances, consider training with a smart watch or lap counter to track progress. Remember, comfort equals confidence – especially when you’ll be in the water for hours.

3. Fuel Your Body for Performance

Swimming is one of the most energy-intensive sports, so nutrition is your hidden edge. Hydrate consistently in the days leading up to the swim day. Incorporate complex carbs like whole grains and fruit for sustained energy, along with lean proteins for muscle repair. On the morning of your swim day, go for a light meal two to three hours before your swim – think oatmeal, toast with nut butter, or a banana with yogurt. And don’t forget recovery fuel: a post-swim protein shake or a hearty balanced meal will help your body bounce back.

4. Build Mental Resilience

Long swims can be as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Train your focus by breaking down laps into smaller goals, using breathing rhythms to stay calm and steady. Visualisation helps too – picture yourself powering through the water, one stroke at a time. Remind yourself of the cause you’re swimming for; it’s often that extra motivation that keeps you pushing when fatigue hits.

5. Balance Training with Rest

Pushing too hard without rest can backfire. Adequate sleep, stretching, and active recovery days are just as crucial as training. Yoga and light mobility exercises help ease sore muscles and improve flexibility both vital for swimmers. Listen to your body: a well-rested swimmer is always faster and more efficient than an over-trained one.

6. Swim Together, Stay Motivated

One of the most rewarding aspects of SAFRA Swim For Hope is its community spirit. Rally your friends, family, or colleagues to form a team. Training with a buddy makes sessions more enjoyable and holds you accountable. Plus, nothing beats the energy of swimming alongside others , knowing every lap contributes to a meaningful cause.

7. Know The Event Rules

Before you dive in, it’s important that your familiarise yourself with the rules and guidelines: registrations run from 4 August to 1 October, 2025, while the swim window spans 11 August to 18 October, 2025; participants must ensure that their swim submissions are logged by the closing time of 5 pm on 18 October. Though the event is non-competitive, swimmers are encouraged to complete the distance tied to their chosen category, whether participating solo, with family, or as a team.

Dive In With Purpose

At its heart, SAFRA Swim For Hope 2025 isn’t just about laps in a pool – it’s about channeling passion into purpose. Each stroke you take helps raise funds for beneficiaries that support families, servicemen, and vulnerable communities across Singapore. Preparing well not only enhances your performance but also ensures you can give your best for those who need it most.

So gear up, train smart, and embrace the challenge. When you dive in for SAFRA Swim For Hope, you’ll be making waves that matter far beyond the pool.

Introduced in 2011, SAFRA Swim For Hope is an annual charity swim event which provides an opportunity for Operationally Ready National Serviceman and their families to contribute to charitable causes, while promoting fitness and bonding through swimming. This year, all nett event proceeds will go towards the various beneficiary organisations to support families and seniors in need of assistance. 

It’s not too late to sign up by visiting safras4h.sg to do your part and contribute to a good cause! Here are ways you can contribute:

1. Sign up by 1 October and rally family and friends to supportyou by making a donation. There are different categories and swim distances to choose from. You can choose to participate in the Individual Open category, take part with your child or form a team.
2. Donate to support a SAFRA Swim For Hope participant/team. 
3. Make a donation to SAFRA Swim For Hope directly.

The post Making Every Stroke Count: Tips to Prep for SAFRA Swim For Hope 2025 appeared first on eNSMAN.

On 21 April 2025, as Ivy Yeo crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon, tears streamed down her face. After nearly eight years of relentless training, countless miles, and six world-renowned races, she clasped the coveted Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Medal – a dream that had seemed distant when she first laced up her shoes. 

The Abbott World Marathon Majors is a dream for many of the world’s marathon enthusiasts. The journey to earn its prestigious Six Star Medal involves completing six of the most renowned marathons in the world. 

“It was a great sense of achievement and accomplishment,” Ivy recalls, her voice still tinged with emotion. “I cried when I crossed that line in Boston. All the hard work, all the sacrifice… it was worth it.” 

A Challenge Born from Passion 

Running has always been part of Ivy’s life, but it was the inspiration from friends and fellow runners at SAFRA Running Club (Mount Faber) (SRCMF), where Ivy first ignited her passion for running, that first planted the seed of the Six Star challenge.  

“I admired those who had finished all six marathons,” she says. “One day, while chatting with my SRCMF friends, we decided to ballot for Berlin. To our surprise, all eight of us got in! That was the start of my journey.” 

From that first marathon in Berlin in 2017 to the final finish line in Boston in 2025, Ivy’s journey stretched across eight years, paused only by the global pandemic. Each race brought new lessons, unforgettable moments, and memories she now treasures deeply. 

Triumphs, Tears, and the Roar of the Crowd 

Every marathon told a different story. The Berlin Marathon introduced her to the magic of the Majors. Boston, with its legendary elevation and brutal course, tested her resolve like never before. But it was London in 2024 that remains etched most vividly in her memory. 

“Both my legs cramped at 32km, 35km, and 38km,” Ivy shares. “But the cheering crowd was just amazing. They shouted my name – ‘Go Ivy!’ – and even shot confetti cannons as I passed. It felt like walking the red carpet. Without them, I don’t think I could have finished in 4 hours 25 minutes.” 

And yet, the Boston Marathon will forever hold the most meaning. “It was my last one, the race that gave me my Six Star Medal. The welcome we received at the Lenox Hotel after the race – horns, confetti, cheers – it was like a dream.” 

Training the Body, Strengthening the Mind 

Behind every medal is a mountain of discipline. Ivy trained five days a week, clocking 60 to 70 km, often on the slopes of Sentosa, Upper Peirce Reservoir, and Mount Faber. Strength and conditioning twice a week kept her injury-free, while guidance from her coach, Andy Neo, transformed her approach to training. 

“Coach Andy taught me so many things I didn’t know about running,” Ivy says gratefully. “He showed me how to train smart, not just hard. Thanks to him, I stayed injury-free through all six marathons.” 

Just as important was the mental grit. “I reminded myself to train hard, to never give up. My mantra was simple: ‘When the going gets tough, the tough gets going!’” 

The Power of Community 

Running may seem solitary, but for Ivy, community was everything. SAFRA Running Club (Mount Faber) became her second family, with weekly interval sessions, hill repeats, tempo runs, and long slow distance runs that shaped her marathon readiness. 

“We encourage and motivate each other,” she smiles. “I’ve been with SRCMF since 2007, and it was there that I truly found my passion for running.” 

Beyond training, her friends and companions also made the journey possible. Whether traveling together, booking hotels, or simply cheering her on, Ivy never ran alone. “I will never, ever travel solo,” she laughs. “I’m thankful for every friend who journeyed with me.” 

A Medal Beyond Metal 

At 63 years old, Ivy proves that dreams don’t come with an expiry date. The Six Star Medal – heavy in weight but heavier still in meaning – represents more than just six races. 

“It’s a symbol of perseverance, discipline, and belief,” she reflects. “I’ve learnt that age is just a number. It’s never too late to chase your dreams.” 

Inspiring Advice for Aspiring Runners 

For those dreaming of their own Six Star journey, Ivy offers practical wisdom: 

“Join a good running club, be disciplined in training, and prepare for lots of sweat and tears. It’s also not cheap, so start saving early. But most of all, believe in yourself. Work hard, and the dream will happen.” 

If given the chance to relive one race, she would choose London – for the sheer electricity of the crowd. “It wasn’t just a race… it was a celebration of human spirit, unity, and determination.” 

Looking Ahead 

Though Ivy now carries her Six Star Medal proudly, her running journey is far from over. “I’m training for the seventh star – the Sydney Marathon in 2026,” she says with a smile. 

Her journey has been paved by faith, discipline, and community, but above all, it has been a testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for endurance. As she looks ahead to Sydney and beyond, one thing is clear: Ivy is still running, not just for medals, but for the joy of the journey itself. 

Interested to join the SAFRA Running Club to kickstart your own running journey? Find out more about the club and its activities here.  

SAFRA members get to join the SAFRA Running Club at just $21.40 for 2-year membership, while non-SAFRA members pay $33.70 for 2-year membership.  

Not yet a member? Sign up at m.safra or the SAFRA mobile app, or visit our membership sign-up page on the website now! 

The post Six Stars, One Dream appeared first on eNSMAN.