Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or engaging in a high-intensity training session, being well prepared can significantly enhance your performance and recovery. Packing the right essentials ensures you stay energised, hydrated, and comfortable throughout your workout.

Here are the top five must-have items for your next training session:

1. Water

Staying hydrated is crucial for effective workouts. What’s more, in Singapore’s humid climate, it’s essential to maintain hydration levels to prevent fatigue and cramps.

The Health Promotion Board (HPB) recommends consuming six to eight glasses of water daily to support essential bodily functions. Additionally, Sport Singapore advises drinking about 500 ml of water 30 minutes before exercise, 250 ml to 500 ml every half-hour during exercise, and 1,000 ml after exercise to replenish fluids lost through sweat. 

Bring your water in a refillable sports bottle so that you can replenish your hydration at water points.

2. Protein-packed snacks

Proper nutrition before and after exercise is crucial for muscle recovery and sustained energy. The HPB recommends that adults aged 18 to 49 consume approximately 0.8 g of protein per kg of body weight daily, while those aged 50 and above should aim for 1.2 g per kg. For example, a 70 kg individual aged 18 to 49 would require about 56 g of protein per day.

Packing a high-protein snack like a protein bar, a handful of nuts, or a serving of Greek yogurt can help replenish muscle glycogen and support muscle repair. For convenience, opt for ready-to-eat options that are easy to carry and consume on the go. If you’re aiming for muscle gain or endurance improvement, pairing protein with a carbohydrate source can further enhance recovery and performance.

3. A high-performance towel

After sweating it out in a great workout, a microfibre towel is a must-have in your gym bag. Unlike regular cotton towels, microfibre towels are lightweight, ultra-absorbent, and quick-drying, making them perfect for wiping away sweat mid-workout or to dry up after post-training showers. Some towels even come with antibacterial properties to keep unpleasant odours at bay.

4. Resistance bands

Whether you’re warming up, cooling down, or adding an extra challenge to your routine, resistance bands are a versatile tool worth packing and don’t take up much space in your bag. From activating glutes before a run to aiding post-workout stretching, they’re an excellent addition to any fitness enthusiast’s kit.

5. 5-hour ENERGY® shots

Need an extra boost to achieve your fitness goals? A 5-hour ENERGY® shot can be a gamechanger. These compact 57 ml size, easy-to-carry energy shots provide a boost and long-lasting burst of energy, perfect for powering through intense workouts.

Unlike sugary energy drinks that can lead to crashes, 5-hour ENERGY® shots are sugar-free and contain both B-vitamins and amino acids to keep you sharp and focused without unwanted jitters. Ideal for early morning workouts or after a long day at work, they help you perform at your best when you need it most.

Some advantages of 5-hour ENERGY® shots include:

• Portability: Unlike drinks which require preparation, each 5-hour ENERGY® shot comes in a handy pocket-sized 57 ml bottle that you can carry anywhere for an instant energy boost.
• Mental benefits: Each shot of 5-hour ENERGY® also contains a combination of vitamin B3, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 that helps to build mental clarity and focus.
• Unique flavours: 5-hour ENERGY® comes in exciting flavours like Peach Tea, Cool Mint Lemonade, Orange, Grape, Maple Syrup, and Apple Bash!

Packing smart for your workouts means less hassle and more focus on your fitness goals. From staying energised with 5-hour ENERGY® shots to ensuring proper recovery with protein-packed snacks, these essentials will help you maximise every training session. Find out more and get your shots here!

SAFRA exclusive: For a limited time only, purchase 5-hour ENERGY® shots at just $3.95 per bottle (usually $4.60). Offer is only available at SAFRA Punggol and The Chevrons. Click here to learn more!

This post was brought to you by 5-hour ENERGY®.

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Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a sport that is fast gaining popularity in Singapore. Played in singles or doubles, it uses solid-faced paddles and a lightweight perforated plastic ball.

Categorised as a paddle sport, pickleball is played similarly to tennis where players trade shots until either side fails to return the ball. Played on a badminton-sized court, pickleball offers a moderate ball speed, making it easier for beginners, younger players and seniors to pick up.

Where did pickleball come from?

While the etymology of this sport is unclear, with some attributing its name to Pickles, the name of the dog belonging to pickleball founder Joel Pritchard, it is evidently a game born out of creative improvisation. Using an arbitrary array of sports equipment and facilities, the sport can be best described as a mash-up of some of the world’s most popular games. In fact, the first iteration of the sport began at a badminton court with a net height similar to tennis, and was played with paddleball paddles and a wiffle ball. 

How to play pickleball

Intrigued? To help you get started, pickleball Coach Su Li guides us through the basics in this video.

What you need

You essentially only need two things to get things going – pickleball paddles and a pickleball. 

A typical pickleball court is smaller than a tennis court. That said, the courts at SAFRA have distinct markers that allow the space to be used for both tennis and pickleball. 

Let’s play!

1. Stand behind the baseline and begin with an underhand serve from the right side of the court, aiming diagonally to your opponent’s service box.
2. The ball must bounce once on each side before you can start volleying. 
3. When volleying, remember to stay out of the non-volley zone, known as the kitchen.
4. When the serving team begins to serve, a rally starts. Only the serving team can score points, so if any faults occur during the rally, no points are scored and the serve goes to the opposing team, who will start a new rally.
5. Keep playing until one team reaches the point limit (usually 11 points) and wins by at least two points.
6. And that’s all there is to pickleball. Have fun!

Enjoy complimentary rental of pickleball equipment (paddles and balls) when you book the new pickleball courts at SAFRA Tampines, SAFRA Jurong and SAFRA Yishun. Visit safra.sg/tennis-pickleball-courts for more information. You can also play pickleball on SAFRA Mount Faber’s multi-purpose court, which you can book here.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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Looking for a fun and affordable way to stay active while spending quality time with your significant other? Singapore offers a plethora of exciting fitness activities that won’t break the bank, especially with extra savings for SAFRA members. Here are six ideas to get you going.

Bouncy bonding

Getting bored with reps at the gym? Embrace the energy of a jumping fitness class instead. The high-intensity, low-impact rebounding workout burns three times as many calories as running, while remaining easy on the joints. When done right, regular jumping also leads to improved muscle tone, lung capacity, physical endurance and cardiovascular health.

Get your bounce on with the original Jumping Fitness classes at selected SAFRA clubs. Conducted by social enterprise Jumping Singapore, a single trial starts at just $15. Combining elements of aerobics and trampoline exercises with professional Jumping® Profi trampolines, the addictive rebounding routines will leave you both breathless and laughing.

SAFRA members enjoy 5% off shareable packages of 8 sessions and above at Jumping Fitness in SAFRA Choa Chu Kang, Jurong & Punggol; more info at safra.sg/whats-on/jumping-fitness

Currently available at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang, SAFRA Jurong & SAFRA Punggol

Not sure if Jumping Fitness is for you? Watch our video on how to get started!

Rock-climbing rendezvous

Conquer new heights in your relationship with a shared adrenaline rush. Rock-climbing is a challenging yet rewarding activity that can strengthen your bond both physically and mentally. Work together to conquer a challenging route, encourage each other through difficult sections, and celebrate your victories as a team. With so many indoor and outdoor rock-climbing facilities available, it’s easy to get started.

At Climb Central, for instance, you can experience bouldering, top rope climbing, lead climbing and auto-belay on rock walls from 4 to 16m high in cool indoor environments. For first timers, $38.15 covers a one-time adult admission and the rental of climbing shoes and harness. Simply walk in, sign up, attend a mandatory 15-minute safety briefing, and start climbing for as long as you like.

SAFRA members and servicemen enjoy 10% off first-timer entry and equipment rental at Climb Central SAFRA Choa Chu Kang; more info at safra.sg/promotions/climb-central-lifesg-credits-promo

SAFRA Choa Chu Kang: 28 Choa Chu Kang Drive, #03-02A

Want to try rock climbing? Watch our Climb Central video to find out how to get started!

Stretching soulmates

Here’s one to consider for lovebirds who lead hectic and stressful lifestyles. Enhance your flexibility, improve your balance and deepen your connection with your partner through a couple yoga class. As you flow through synchronised poses, learn to trust and support each other, and reap the calming effects of yoga together.

If you’re not sure if yoga is for you, you can try free classes, such as those organised by HPB via the Healthy 365 mobile app, or Yoga Seeds at Bishan-AMK Park every second Sunday. Many studios also offer trial packages, such as the three classes for $50 Intro Pass at Yoga Inc. This is a great way to explore its diverse class offerings, including beginner-friendly options like Basics, Hot Basics, Stretch and Yin yoga.

SAFRA members and servicemen enjoy a special rate of $188 for 10 classes worth $300 at Yoga Inc SAFRA Punggol; more info at safra.sg/promotions/yoga-inc-lifesg-credits-promotion

SAFRA Punggol: 9 Sentul Crescent, #01-03, Singapore 828654

Cycling connections

A cycling date along Singapore’s extensive Park Connector Network is a three-way win. You’ll get a cardio workout while traversing lush greenery, serene waterways and vibrant cityscapes, allowing for uninterrupted conversation and quality time together. Choose a route that suits your fitness level and interests, from short loops to longer expeditions.

Some of our favourite routes originate from Changi Airport Terminal 2, an excellent starting (and ending) point for several reasons. Firstly, you can grab breakfast at Hub & Spoke Café and rent bicycles from GoCycling if needed. After exploring sights like the Changi Jurassic Mile and taking in sunset views from Changi Bay Point’s lookout pavilion, head back for a laidback dinner with live music at Overflow Bar.

SAFRA members and servicemen enjoy 10% off mountain bike rentals at GoCycling, as well as 10% off food and non-alcoholic drinks at Hub & Spoke Cafe and Overflow Bar; more info at safra.sg/promotions/gocycling & safra.sg/promotions/hub-spoke-overflow

#01-T2S Changi Airport Terminal 2, 60 Airport Boulevard

Paddling paradise

Water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide a full-body workout, engaging your core and improving balance and coordination. Besides, they’re also super easy to pick up and make for a fun day out by the beach. For an exhilarating date, head to Ola Beach Club on Siloso Beach and experience these water sports firsthand.

Rent tandem kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the coastline of Sentosa from another angle, experiencing the thrill of propelling yourselves through the water. Don’t worry if it’s your first time, as guides are on hand to help you get the hang of it, plus you’ll have life vests on. When you’re all paddled out, glide back to shore and chill out over Tiki cocktails and Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.

For more savings on Ola Beach Club’s watersports activities, make your bookings via Klook. SAFRA members and servicemen enjoy up to 10% off sitewide; more info at safra.sg/promotions/klook-sg

46 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa Island

Trailblazing temptations

If you prefer keeping your feet on terra firma, then lace up your shoes, slap on some sunscreen and take to the many walking trails around Singapore. Whether you choose to navigate hilly terrain and rocky quarries, search out scenic views on treetop walks, or follow trails from coast to coast, hiking together offers a unique blend of adventure and intimacy.

Or why not embark on a hiking expedition to Singapore’s idyllic southern islands? A single ferry ticket lets you go island-hopping across St John’s, Lazarus, Kusu and the newly reopened Sisters’ islands. Hike biodiversity-rich trails and floating boardwalks, and even track down hidden hideouts within the pristine rainforest. Then find a secluded spot along sandy beaches and have a romantic picnic to bring your date to the perfect conclusion.

Make sure to wear suitable footwear for hiking. SAFRA members and servicemen enjoy up to 15% off at Asics, Bata & Skechers stores; more info at safra.sg/promotions/Asics-stores, safra.sg/promotions/bata & safra.sg/promotions/skechers-2025

Read on for tips from a podiatrist on how to choose the right footwear and keep your feet healthy.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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It can be a challenge getting the recommended 90 minutes of physical activity per day, especially if you work long hours. If we have extra time, many of us would prefer to spend it at home with our family instead. But you don’t have to divide your time between your loved ones and your health. Everyone – even young children – needs physical activity, so schedule some family exercise time every week and strive to get fit and healthy together. 

Here are seven suggestions to make it happen. 

Enjoy an outdoor adventure

Mega Adventure, located on Siloso Beach in Sentosa, offers various thrilling outdoor activities to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. There’s MegaZip, which lets you zipline at speeds of up to 60km/h above the jungle and across the beach, 75m above the ground; MegaClimb, an exciting, three-storey course with 36 exciting obstacles and a choice of three difficulty levels; MegaJump, which invites you to take a leap of faith on an exhilarating 15m simulated free-fall experience; and MegaBounce, a child-friendly, gravity-defying trampoline experience.

Safe and fun, Mega Adventure is the perfect place for everyone in the family to let their hair down, engage their senses, and get their body moving.   

SAFRA members get 20% off all activities. Flash your SAFRA card or 11B on-site at the ticketing counter or book online using the promo code <MEGASAFRA20>. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/mega-adventure

Work up a sweat with yoga

Yoga offers a range of benefits, from improving strength, flexibility, balance and coordination, to boosting cardiovascular health and circulation, and helping with stress and sleep. 

Yoga Inc has four studios in various parts of the island, including Tampines, Punggol and Bedok, and programmes that suit everyone in the family. Choose from different yoga styles, like Hatha, Hot Basics, Ashtanga, Core, and Yin. 

SAFRA members and affiliated members enjoy 10% off retail items and all regular packages (not applicable to prenatal and promotional packages). Get more details at safra.sg/amenities-offerings/yoga-inc

Strike your way to fitness

Bowling isn’t just a game; it can also help with muscle strength and endurance, is an excellent cardiovascular activity, improves balance and coordination, sharpens mental focus and concentration, and relieves stress. Additionally, it’s a great way to engage and bond with your teammates. 

Sonic Bowl, located in Punggol, Yishun, Choa Chu Kang and Tampines, is a family-friendly spot catering to all levels of bowlers. Lightweight balls are available, too, for young ones and those who aren’t used to heavy weights.

SAFRA members and affiliated members get 15% discount for lane use and 20% discount for services and F&B. Click on safra.sg/amenities-offerings/sonic-bowl for additional details. 

Go wild in the water

Spending time in the water is a good way to work every part of your body and improve your cardiovascular fitness. 

Wild Wild Wet, one of Singapore’s largest water parks, promises hours of thrills for the whole family. The four-hectare park is home to 16 water rides for all age groups, including an adrenaline-pumping hybrid ride (the Royal Flush), Singapore’s first four-lane mat racer slide (the Kraken Racers), Asia’s longest free fall water slide, and a high-speed 360-degree extreme loop ride. There are also relaxing and gentle, pint-sized versions of adult rides in the Kidz Zone. 

Life jackets are available for adults and children to use for free. Baby water carriers and puddle jumpers are also available for parents to have a good time in the water with their infants.

SAFRA members and 11B holders enjoy 10% off peak day passes and 20% discount on off-peak day passes with a minimum of two passes purchased. Go to safra.sg/promotions/wild-wild-wet-nslifesg to learn more. 

Climb to the top

Strengthening your core is one of the best things you can do for your body – it can improve your posture, prevent injury, assist with balance, stability and coordination, help you breathe better, and make you more agile. Rock climbing is an excellent method to strengthen your core muscles in your lower back, hips, pelvis and stomach. 

If outdoor climbing is not an option for you, there’s Climb Central, located at Choa Chu Kang SAFRA. 

The facility features over 1,000 sq m of climbing wall space, with routes ranging from beginner to advanced levels. It has both top-rope and lead climbing options, as well as bouldering areas.

The friendly and experienced staff are dedicated to ensuring your safety and providing guidance as you scale to new heights. The facility is beginner-friendly and no prior experience is required. Start climbing from your first visit with Climb Central’s easy-to-learn safety systems and 15-minute safety briefing. The indoor setup means that you can climb all day, rain or shine, in air-conditioned comfort. 

Note the entry requirements: 

• Age: Five years and older
• Weight: More than 20kg 
• Height: More than 1.1m 

Children aged five to 12 years must have an adult (aged 18+) with them and be actively supervised while within the facility. Each adult can supervise up to two children.

SAFRA members and affiliated members enjoy 10% off entry rates. Visit safra.sg/whats-on/climb-central-singapore for details. 

Want to try rock climbing? Watch our Climb Central video to find out how to get started!

Swim laps or just splash around

Swimming can help with a variety of fitness and health goals. In addition to burning calories, this low-impact cardiovascular sport may have a calming effect as it reduces stress and anxiety. Plus, it can improve flexibility, build muscle and bone strength, and boost endurance. 

Check out the pools at your favourite SAFRA club and enjoy a few laps with your family. The sheltered pool at Choa Chu Kang is perfect when it’s raining or super-hot outside, and your kids will love the pool at SAFRA Yishun, which, in addition to a six-lane Olympic-sized pool, also has training, wet play, and fun pools. 

SAFRA members enjoy free entry into SAFRA club pools daily. Find out more at safra.sg/amenities-offerings/swimming-pools

Aside from helping you to get fit, here are some other lesser-known health benefits of swimming!

Walk and cycle through greenery

No matter where you live on the island, you’re never too far from a park. Make it a habit to cycle, walk or jog through a green space with your family every week. This is an easy way to keep fit, plus, exercising outdoors – specifically in nature – is known to have mental health benefits, as it can help you manage stress and symptoms of anxiety. 

Aim to exercise outdoors once or twice a week, for at least 30 minutes per session. 

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post Here Are 7 Fun Ways To Get Fit With The Family In 2025 appeared first on eNSMAN.

Something exciting is brewing at SAFRA’s clubhouses to kickstart 2025 with a bang! Starting from 25 January 2025, all fitness enthusiasts will have the chance to take part in an array of competitive challenges that are sure to make you sweat. 

An action-packed fiesta, the SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025 will test your physical mettle, athletic spirit and reactive strength, all the while indulging your appetite for thrills and an adrenaline rush.

Here, we break down everything you need to know about the SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025, with training tips from EnergyOne’s professional fitness trainer to help prepare our competitors for the trials ahead!  

The ultimate fitness challenge

SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025 comes with not just one fitness circuit, but three distinct categories to challenge exercise buffs of all ages.

Young and hungry for athletic triumph? Join the Youth Challenge at SAFRA Tampines, a timed fitness circuit which encompasses 5 stations that competitors have to complete within 30 minutes. Accumulate as many points as you can at each of the stations and stand a chance to win $300, in addition to a beautiful trophy for boasting rights! Every participant also leaves with a race bag that consists of a towel, bottle, event t-shirt and finisher medal. 

Make fitness a family affair with the Families for Life Parent & Child Challenge at SAFRA Yishun! Pair up with your adorable budding athlete to score points at its 5 stations in a 30-minute period. Similar to the Youth Challenge, winners are rewarded with a cash prize amounting up to $300 as well as a trophy. Though, with the race bag that every parent-child duo gets to bring home, everyone is technically a winner! 

The Fitness Race at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang is the culmination of a communal passion for sportsmanship and physical endurance. Upon the race’s start, you compete in a 500m race, albeit with a small twist – it comes with sandbags that you will need to haul. After which you’ll climb up the “Stairs of Life” to face 6 intensive fitness trials that stand between you and the Giant Monkey Bar obstacle. Unable to complete a specific station? Rise to the challenge with 30 burpees! 

For those looking to compete with only the best, sign up for a spot under the Elite category for an elevated challenge and a chance to win up to $500 cash alongside a trophy! Like in the Youth Challenge and Families for Life Parent & Child Challenge, every participant goes home with an exclusive race bag. 

Youth Challenge

Date: 25 January 2025

Venue: SAFRA Tampines, Badminton Court

Categories: Men and Women

Price: $35 for guests and $25 for SAFRA and EnergyOne Members

Make sure to register by 20 January 2025!

Families for Life Parent & Child Challenge (1 Parent + 1 Child aged 7-12)

Date: 15 February 2025

Venue: SAFRA Yishun, Front Porch & Atrium 

Categories: 1 Parent & 1 Child Aged 7-9, 1 Parent & 1 Child Aged 10-12

Price: $40 for guests and $30 for SAFRA and EnergyOne Members

Registration concludes on 5 February 2025. Secure your spot now!

Fitness Race (Elite and Individual Open)

Date: 22 February 2025

Venue: SAFRA Choa Chu Kang 

Price(s):
Elite: $50 for guests and $35 for SAFRA and EnergyOne Members
Open: $35 for guests and $25 for SAFRA and EnergyOne Members

Fitness Race (Double Trouble – Team of 2) 

Date: 23 February 2025

Venue: SAFRA Choa Chu Kang 

Price: $75 for guests and $50 for SAFRA and EnergyOne Members

Do sign up for the Fitness Race by 12 February 2025. 

You can find more information about SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025 at safra.sg/whats-on/fitness-fest-2025

Training hard for the big day!

Some of the challenges are less than a month away, but it’s not too late to start preparing.

Krithi, a fitness trainer from EnergyOne Gym, has nuggets of wisdom aplenty to elevate your training routines. “If you haven’t worked out in a while, it is critical that you work on your strength and endurance,” he says, recommending strength exercises such as pull-ups as well as deadlifts at least three times a week. Complement this with cardio exercises like steady-state runs. Krithi recommends that runners aim to cover a distance of 3 to 5 km twice a week. 

Alternatively, competitors can also consider High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workouts that follow the 30:30 rule – 30 seconds of exercise accompanied by 30 seconds of recovery.  When you feel ready, you can begin progressing towards functional exercises that best prepare you for some of the more demanding stations. “I recommend competitors familiarise themselves with the Low Rope station. They can even consider incorporating sandbag exercises if they can get access to one,” shares Krithi. “There are plenty of Rope Attachments, Plyometric Boxes, Kettlebells and Rowers in our gym studios for competitors training for the challenges.” 

Nearer the event date, competitors can begin curating their own “tailored race environment” by creating circuits consisting of the various stations. Ultimately, it is crucial that competitors increase the intensity, resistance or distance of their chosen workout routine every week. 

For those who may not have the time to exercise regularly, Krithi proposes quick workout routines that can be incorporated into their daily lives. “Try to fit in at least three sets of pull-ups and 3 sets of 15 reps of burpees. If you have access to a SkiErg machine or a sandbag, you can even squeeze in functional exercises such as sandbag deadlifts,” Krithi advises. You can even conduct HIIT workouts at home, with exercises like Mountain Climbers, Skiers and High Knees that require little more than space. 

And we haven’t forgotten about the kids! Aspiring young athletes can mix in jump rope challenges, partner push-ups (high-fives after each rep), mini box jumps and relay races with light sandbags.

When asked which station he predicts most participants will find the most challenging, Krithi said, “The Low Rope, for sure, particularly for those who lack upper-body strength, grip endurance or prior rope-climbing experience.” To best overcome this obstacle, Krithi urges our readers to work on their foot grip. “Exercises like Farmer’s Walk, Pull-ups and Dead Hangs can increase your grip and pull strength. You should also integrate planks or hanging leg lifts in your routine for improved coordination and core strength,” he shares. 

Ultimately, it’s really all about adopting the proper technique which Krithi coins as the J-hook. “Instead of fully relying on your upper body strength, secure the rope with your feet. Drive momentum by pushing with your legs.” 

Most importantly, participants should remember to have fun while at it! An active lifestyle should not feel like a chore. To the competitors of SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025: Happy training! 

You can find more information about SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025 and sign up at safra.sg/whats-on/fitness-fest-2025

Exclusive EnergyOne promotion for SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025 participants only!

$0 joining fee + enjoy additional 25% discount on personal training services (Only applicable to 10 sessions package)! Present your SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025 receipt as proof of purchase. Promo ends 31 March 2025. For more information, go to safra.sg/energyone-gym/Gym-membership/new-year-sale!-(exclusive-for-safra-members) and safra.sg/energyone-gym/Fitness-Centres

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post SAFRA Fitness Fest 2025: Exercising Your Way To The Top appeared first on eNSMAN.

SAFRA Swim for Hope 2024 is already in the 14th year of its now-established social tradition of doing good. Same as every year, SAFRA rallies members of our community to make waves, harnessing the transformative power of swimming to contribute to social causes, while encouraging all to embrace a more active lifestyle.

In 2024, SAFRA Swim for Hope set out to raise funds for the NCSS Special Assistance Fund, Society for the Physically Disabled (SPD), the President’s Challenge, the SAF Care Fund and Singapore Aquatics, which seeks to empower our youths with opportunities to learn swimming. 

The event raised over $250,000 with over 5,800 swimmers championing its cause. We spoke to a few participants at the finale of SAFRA Swim for Hope 2024, including a national athlete, to share their experiences and thoughts on its social significance. 

Driving social causes with sportsmanship – Abielle Yeo Zhi Min

National Water Polo athlete Abielle Yeo Zhi Min, having been with the team since 2018, was enjoying a well-deserved day under the sun at SAFRA Tampines as she shared about how her being a national sportswoman can make a difference simply by leveraging on her influence to do good.

“I love how sports can function as a great equaliser for communities,” she mused, visibly heartened by the exuberance of the event’s participants as they excitedly gathered around the pool. 

Out of the water, Abielle is also a marketing professional. This duality allows her to understand how a supportive environment can shape one’s potential for success, with her own colleagues and coaches doing all they could to ensure that Abielle thrived both at her day job and her athletic pursuits. “I’m so thankful that everyone has been incredibly supportive of my athletic aspirations!” she remarked. 

Abielle believes that the smallest of acts can make a huge difference in the lives of others. “Whether you’re in it for the achievements or just for the fun of it all, sports are accessible to people of all backgrounds,” she shared, emphasising how sports and as an extension, SAFRA Swim for Hope, can bring people together to spotlight the lives of those who are less privileged. Beyond that, she hopes that events like SAFRA Swim for Hope remind our communities that we can always find ways to contribute to the society that we call our home. 

Friendship for community – Team R182 (Top Team Fundraiser)

It started with two best friends looking to do something that they both enjoyed – and SAFRA Swim for Hope ticked all their boxes. Swimming? Check. Giving back to those in need? Check again.

Soon, this passionate duo became a trio, then a quartet and today, their team, R182 has grown to include more than 17 members swimming for a kinder and more compassionate future.

“Most of us actually met when we were still in secondary school,” shared the group leaders Chong Yit Nee and Chang Tsann, elaborating on how their name R182 is an allusion to their graduation year – 1982. Buddies for more than a decade, they love how SAFRA Swim for Hope gives them an opportunity to work towards a shared goal together, creating new memories to enrich their cherished friendship.

Indeed, this will be their third time participating in the event. “SAFRA Swim for Hope seemed like a very natural decision for us as we all love swimming. So why not for a good cause? After all, it is also a great way for us to spend time together!” they remarked enthusiastically, clearly still celebrating what was a joyous occasion. 

Yit Nee and Chang Tsann realised that most, if not all of the group were keen to take part because of their friendship and camaraderie. “The one thing that ties us together is a passion to keep our close-knit community going,” they reflect, adding that they have “gathered three times as a group in addition to their individual swim sessions.” 

While SAFRA Swim for Hope 2024 has come to a close, that does not mean that this comradeship is ending anytime soon. Just a day prior, they had gathered at a friend’s house for a social potluck. “Some of us are already experiencing withdrawal symptoms,” joked Chang Tsann, “we are really excited for the next SAFRA Swim for Hope!” 

Walking the talk – Team Change (Largest Team)

Swimming coach Edmund Chan did not just want his lessons to be all about the technicalities. He wanted his students to understand how they can be champions for change, to have swimming as a tool to uplift our next generations of leaders to better our communities. What better opportunity to impart this than with SAFRA Swim for Hope 2024?

This year, he is joined by his fellow coaches as well as more than 65 students in SAFRA Swim For Hope’s mission to lend aid to those who need it the most, aptly represented by their team moniker, Team Change. 

“It couldn’t come at a better time really!” shared the coach, “just before the event, I was teaching the kids about the significance of the Paralympics, sharing videos and anecdotes of the beneficiaries.” He wanted his students to be well-informed about the power that they had to transform the lives of others. 

“I’m so happy that some of my students are really pushing themselves this year. Many have already exceeded expectations in terms of distance!” he exclaimed proudly. To celebrate his team’s impressive turnout , Edmund will issue commemorative certificates to his team members so that they can bring home a bit of the joy that they have already given to those in need. 

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