People – eNSMAN https://nsman.safra.sg Build Bonds, Create Memories Tue, 16 Apr 2024 07:11:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 88.3JIA DJ Jia Ming On Fatherhood & Family https://nsman.safra.sg/88-3jia-dj-jia-ming-on-fatherhood-family/ Fri, 12 Apr 2024 02:00:56 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=25162 As affable as he is nurturing, this veteran radio personality loves both his job and his kids unquestionably.

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DJ Jia Ming’s (@883jiaming) life path has always embodied his youthful exuberance and zest for life. In his previous career as a flight attendant, he wanted to see the world, from glimpses of its natural wonders to the narratives of everyday people. But now, he faces a new path that is scary yet beautiful – fatherhood. A host, actor and radio personality at 88.3JIA, he now adds ‘father of three kids’ to his repertoire.

In addition to hosting早早心情好with co-hosts Ben and Shu Hui on weekdays from 6 to 10am, he dedicates himself to being a devoted dad to his three children, 8-year-old Keagan, 6-year-old Shane and 2-year-old Noelle, as well as loving husband to his wife, Sarah. 

We chat with him about his family, and how he navigates the many obstacles that come with fatherhood. 

Learning from his past

Some learn their best lessons from their fathers. However,  Jia Ming never had that luxury.

“My dad left me when I was 7 years old. I never knew what fatherhood was like, how it was meant to look or feel,” he confides. While he did not have a “manual” to follow, he knew that if he had kids, he would do his very best to be the father he never had. Thankfully, he isn’t doing this alone. His wife is always there, ready to support and encourage him. 

Introspection is a recurring theme in Jia Ming’s life. Often, he reflects on the decisions he has made, and his role as a father in an ever-evolving household. “Many times, I do feel like I didn’t do well in certain areas, like I could have been more patient. There is no such thing as the perfect father, but what’s important is that I constantly check myself, and not repeat the same mistakes”, he says.

With that said, he understands how new fathers out there can feel defeated at times. He says to all first-time fathers out there: Don’t give up! For Jia Ming, he believes in the strength of positive affirmations. “Be generous with words of encouragement”, he stresses.  

Starting 2024 with a bang!

Keagan (top left) and Shane (top right) are Noelle’s staunchest bodyguards and greatest supporters.

Jia Ming’s two adorable sons, Keagan and Shane were really excited to welcome a third member to their gang of mischief. “The brothers really love Noelle! They even ‘scolded’ me when I disciplined their little Mei Mei!”, he gleams. While the household has admittedly gotten more chaotic, this father of three is excited for a livelier 2024! 

In fact, Jia Ming and his wife have already planned a few overseas escapades for the family. With Perth, Shanghai, Fukuoka, Nagasaki and many more in the lineup, the Loh family has a lot of packing to do!

It isn’t all play and no work though. Keagan began primary school last year and it was nerve-wracking for this young father. “I teared up during his first day. Keagan is no longer the little baby I held in my arms. It’ll take some time adapting to new routines like after-school care and tutoring”, he admits. Beneath his animated disposition hides a disciplinarian who takes his kids’ academic performance seriously. He and his wife prepare test papers and assignments for his kids so that they are well-versed in their studies. Ultimately, he hopes that his kids can embody the spirit of excellence at home, and at school. 

Doing better, together

Personal goals carry a special significance when you make it a team effort. Jia Ming is an avid gym-goer and intrepid adventurer, and the apples do not fall far from the tree. Just last year, Jia Ming and his two sons participated in Cold Storage’s Kids Run, marking the second run that they have completed as a family. 

“The truth is, they wanted to join the run! I was discussing the run with my wife and Keagan and Shane overheard our conversation. They were so excited about the run because they wanted to get the medal!”, he shares.

To Jia Ming, staying active together as a family not only cultivates good habits and values, but also provides them the opportunity to create bonds and memories. And he doesn’t just say it; he leads by example. 

“I exercise every day apart from Sunday, which is my rest day. When my boys ask about my daily fitness routine, I would tell them that I want to be healthy and strong, just as I would love for them to be active as well”, he says. 

Similar to their dad, Keagan and Shane have at least three exercise sessions each week, from badminton and basketball sessions to swimming lessons. 

It is a relationship, not a dictatorship

“My kids often remind me of my promises to them”, Jia Ming shares, and is adamant that he fulfils every promise he makes to his kids.

However, parents are human too, and will have their bad days. As tempting as it is to push everyone away then, it is imperative that parents stay level-headed with their kids, according to Jia Ming. 

“Whether I like it or not, I’m a role model to them. And I intend to be a good one”, he says.  “I have to constantly remind myself that my kids emulate my own conduct, both the good and the bad.”

Speaking from the heart with your kids

Jia Ming knows that his kids are growing up, fast. Conversations are no longer one-way streets. “Now, they even talk back and reason with me! They are no longer sweet little babies!” he jokes, as he muses on being a good listener to his kids. 

They might even want to understand you better as well in return. “My kids often ask me about my job. When they hear ‘Radio DJ’, they would say, “Huh? What’s that?”, then I would tell them how I speak to many people every day in hopes of brightening their day”, he shares. 

While he does have a busy year awaiting him, Jia Ming does not intend to relent in his efforts to do his very best for his kids. When asked about how he would describe his journey so far, Jia Ming encapsulates it in three words – Never give up. 

You can tune in to Jia Ming’s radio show《早早心情好》at facebook.com/883jia


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NSMen Share: Fasting While In The Line Of Duty https://nsman.safra.sg/nsmen-share-fasting-while-in-the-line-of-duty/ Mon, 08 Apr 2024 07:00:53 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=26078 It is not easy finding a balance between one’s spiritual and national responsibilities.

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With the month of Ramadan soon coming to a close, our Muslim brothers and sisters would soon begin their celebration of Hari Raya Puasa, a festival where appreciation, forgiveness and love are in abundance. True to the spirit of the festival, it is apt that we revisit and reflect on the stories of National Servicemen who continue to safeguard our lands, while preserving their commitment to their faith and the customs it entails. 

We spoke to four of our Muslim brothers on what it was like to perform National Service during the month of Ramadan as well as their hopes and dreams for 2024. 


Not going to lie, it can be challenging to find a compromise between our religious obligations and the rigorous training that comes alongside being a soldier. The exercises are intense on a normal day, let alone during the Ramadan month. Thankfully, I had commanders and platoon mates who were always looking out for me.

As for the specifics, there were a substantial number of adjustments made to our daily schedules so that we could carry on with our fasting safely. We had nourishing pre-fast meals specially prepared for our Suhur. Our dinner arrangements were altered to better align with our Iftar (breaking fast). On certain training days, we could even dress down to avoid accelerated dehydration. It really helped that a lot of checks and balances were in place so that all of us could observe the ceremonial month safely and authentically. 

Now that the fasting month is almost over, I’m just excited to finally indulge in the revelries of Hari Raya! An introspective period for us all, it is one of the few times in the year that we can focus on expressing our gratitude and love to the many who have supported us in our respective journeys. 

– CPL Ahmad Solihin, 701 SIR, Infantry


Was it easy to fast while serving the nation? No. 

That said, we don’t give our resilience enough credit. I adamantly kept my mind focused on the bigger picture, remembering the sentiments and sanctity of our customs that many before us have worked so hard to preserve. With that in mind, suddenly, my earthly concerns are no longer as consequential. You’ll be surprised what we can achieve if we just keep at it, and have a bit more faith in ourselves!

Of course, safety is, and should be your top priority. Only you know your body’s tolerance, and if it is truly time to let go, let go. There will always be another training session, another assignment, but there is no other you. 

Surprisingly, this month-long occasion also proves to me that there is an abundance of good in people. During my time in Brunei, my non-Muslim brothers would volunteer to take up additional duties so that we had more time to acclimate ourselves to the intense nature of our service. They didn’t have to do it, but they wanted to. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.

This year, I hope to extend the support I had to others who need it more!

– CPL Aarifeen Izzul, 922 SIR, Combat Medic


I don’t know how some of you do it, but training while fasting was so challenging! 

If not for my NS mates, I do not think it would have gone as smoothly as it did for me. The extra provisions definitely helped, which included additional rest periods and a reasonably lighter workload. I’m not sure how these provisions came about, but I’m sure that it came at the expense of non-Muslims, who have to reinforce the platoon with extra hours of their own. Thank you to my friends who were more than willing to support us through an incredibly significant month. 

On that note, I hope to celebrate my Hari Raya Puasa with everyone who has stood by me through the good and bad! To be able to spend quality time with those I love is truly a blessing that cannot be measured in gold. 

– CFC Hariz, Medical Response Force, Combat Medic


It does take a while to get used to not being able to eat and drink during a 12-hour shift. 

But I’m so grateful that there were other officers in my team undergoing the same challenges I faced. And to see them bravely take these on without fear, unfaltering in their beliefs, was inspiring. Knowing that I was not alone in this imbued me with hope that I too can push through.

It did help that everyone was kind and accommodating. Trainers were always asking if we were okay during intense exercises. Officers made sure again and again that we were fully hydrated and well before we commenced fasting. With so many friends, family and colleagues believing in our fortitude and embracing our beliefs, it was easier to see the light at the end of the tunnel. If anything, it encouraged us to work even harder.

To all my Muslim brothers and sisters, I wish all of you an amazing and blessed Hari Raya! 

– 3SGT Asyraf Bin Mohamad Yusop, Ground Response Trooper, Infantry 

Main photo: SPH Media Trust


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A Hari Raya Puasa For The Ages https://nsman.safra.sg/a-hari-raya-puasa-for-the-ages/ Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:00:27 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=25894 A meaningful time for family, forgiveness, and love.

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From beautiful displays of lights to a buzzing annual festive fiesta at Geylang Serai, there is so much to be excited about this coming Hari Raya Puasa! Not to mention the many shared intimate moments with family and friends. 

With just a couple of weeks to go before the festival, we asked four celebrants to share how they are going to make the most of their Hari Raya Puasa in 2024. 

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all who celebrate!

This year is going to be even more exciting as I’ll be celebrating Hari Raya at my matrimonial home for the first time. Finally, our intimate and cosy abode is ready! It’s been a crazy couple of months as I have been super busy trying to make our home as perfect as it can be before the festivities. 

And there is a lot to be thankful for this year! My family has just grown bigger with an adorable baby niece and my beautiful daughter is turning 17 months old. It’s so heartwarming to be part of her journey, seeing her walk for her first time, being more aware of her spatial surroundings and calling me mummy just makes my heart melt. I’m so excited to dress her up in a traditional baju kurung, if I can find a nice fitting one! Though I’m sure she’s more eager to play with my baby niece slash new play pal!  

It’s going to be a chaotic time, but it is a chaos that my family can get behind. There will be so much food, so much noise and so much joy waiting for us this Hari Raya Puasa! 

– Maisarah Saneb, Logistics Overseer


(L-R) Amirul (2nd row, first from right) with his family, food galore and football at home!

A celebration without family really isn’t worth celebrating. 

They are the cornerstone of the many fond memories I have of the Hari Raya festivities, the shared laughs, banter, and late-night conversations that really transforms my Hari Raya Puasa into something truly magical. Really, I am so excited to see my cousins! Every year, we will shoot mini fireworks at the carpark to add some spark and colour to our celebrations. We may only get to spend time together during this annual affair, but it is the rarity of these moments that makes it evermore precious. 

That said, I’m expecting this year to be a tad different since I’m graduating soon. My family and relatives are sure to ask about my next life’s milestone – National Service. Not really sure what it entails yet really, but it is fundamentally my duty as a citizen, so I’m looking forward to it.

– Amirul Jamalludin, Student 


(L-R) Jermyn Tan, Jermyn with her partner

Hari Raya is kind of a new experience for me!

Given that my partner celebrates it, it is natural that I come along. And it is definitely eye-opening! The hospitality, the grace and the warmth are just so refreshing. I love how closely-knit everyone is, sharing inside jokes, chatting about everything under the sun and giving advice to our juniors. 

And the food! I don’t think I have ever eaten more than at a Hari Raya gathering! The Ayam Masak Merah is just brimming with savoury spices that everyone can smell from miles away, and when paired with rice? Heaven on a plate.

No money can ever buy this beautiful sense of togetherness that is in abundance in the household. Definitely looking forward to the upcoming celebrations!

– Jermyn Tan, HR Executive


Anyone with a family understands that it isn’t always all smooth sailing. We fight, we argue, we reconcile.

But the significance of Hari Raya Puasa transcends our petty conflicts. It’s the perfect time for us to look within and find forgiveness, and love for others as we would for ourselves. The ambience feels lighter, more convivial, and generally, more intimate.

I’m so happy to say that my relationship with my family has never been better and I am excited to start a new year happier and better than I was before! 

– Tanti, Trade Operations

Make sure to read our 2023 Hari Raya feature – How We’re Celebrating Hari Raya

Photos: SPH Media Trust


Save more with SAFRA! Enjoy special deals and discounts on dining, entertainment, travel, fitness and more from over 1,500 merchant outlets islandwide. Sign up or renew your SAFRA membership for one year at $43.60 inclusive of GST) and get two years FREE! Plus, get your spouse and children on board to enjoy the same privileges too at $5.45/year. Visit safra.sg/savemore for more details.

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How The SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme Can Further Your Career Potential https://nsman.safra.sg/how-the-safra-bond-free-education-scheme-can-further-your-career-potential/ Thu, 21 Mar 2024 06:00:52 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=25862 Upskill, learn something new and get ahead with the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme.

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Acquiring new skills and qualifications can open up new job opportunities for you and help you advance in your career. But furthering your studies can be costly, which is why SAFRA introduced the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme. Formed in 1994, the scheme provides opportunities for SAFRA members to upgrade themselves educationally, offering sponsorships for diploma, degree and master programmes from a range of partner institutions such as Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), James Cook University (Singapore), SIM Global Education (SIM GE), PSB Academy and more. For a full list of institutions, click here.

There are two sponsorship application periods a year, with the current one ending on 31 March 2024; the next application period runs from 1 August to 30 September 2024. Applicants must have completed full-time National Service and be a valid SAFRA Ordinary A, Ordinary B or Life member. Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) under Ordinary A seeking to apply for study in any of the stated educational institutions will also be considered if they are in their last year of service and/or whose Operationally-ready Date (ORD) fall at least three months before the start date of the applied course.

To learn more, go to safra.sg/promotions/bond-free-education-scheme. Remember to apply before the respective schools’ sponsorship application deadlines and check the eligibility criteria.

Since its launch, the SAFRA Bond-free Education Scheme has helped hundreds of awarded applicants offload some financial burdens in their journey of lifelong learning. Find out how some of our recent awardees benefitted from this scheme.

SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme-Ong Wei RenOng Wei Ren, Senior Game Designer and Data Analyst

PSB Academy

How did you hear about the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme?

I learnt about it on the SAFRA and PSB Academy websites.

What was the application experience like?

Being interviewed for this scholarship was an eye-opening experience and I got to reflect on my previous academic and career achievements.

What do you think clinched the sponsorship for you?

The course I wanted to do was closely aligned with my aspirations, plus, I was determined to complete my undergraduate studies and further my knowledge in data analysis. I managed to convey all this to the interviewers.

How has being an award recipient made a difference to your career prospects?

It puts me in a better standing. Right now, I’m in the process of developing my data analyst skills, and the sponsorship gives me the opportunity to bridge potential knowledge gaps through further education.

How has the award enabled you to re-learn and upskill?

With the cost of living increasing and my parents newly retired, this award has lightened my financial load, giving me the opportunity to learn new skills without the financial burden.

How were you able to strike a work-life balance and switch careers all at the same time?

I made it a point to manage my mental health by working out regularly and participating in fun physical activities like basketball, bouldering and jogging. No matter how hectic my days got, I always made time for myself.

What’s your advice for SAFRA members who are thinking about furthering their studies?

Set a goal to work towards that will bring out the best in you. Furthering your studies should form part of that goal.

Has your experience with the scheme made you more excited to check out other SAFRA member benefits?

Yes. I constantly browse the SAFRA mobile app for member benefits.

What other benefits have you enjoyed as a SAFRA member?

I’ve really enjoyed the facilities and amenities that members are eligible to book.

Hear what our previous SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme awardees have to say about their sponsorship.


SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme-Daniel SohDaniel Soh, Network Engineer/Cloud Engineer

Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)

How did you hear about the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme?

I came across it on the SUSS website.

What was the application experience like?

I knew that I had what it took to qualify for the sponsorship, so I put a lot of effort into my application. I was keen to present myself in the best way in order to secure the scholarship.

What do you think clinched the sponsorship for you?

I believe it was a combination of my past achievements and my commitment to my life and career goals.

How has being an award recipient made a difference to your career prospects?

It’s opened more doors for me. Thanks to the financial assistance, I’ve also been able to take up an additional professional certification, directly related to my field of interest. The recognition and support from SAFRA have also boosted my motivation to do my best.

How has the award enabled you to re-learn and upskill?

It gave me more financial breathing room, allowing me to fully focus on my academic journey without having to worry about my finances.

How were you able to strike a work-life balance and switch careers all at the same time?

It was important to set clear priorities and spend my time wisely. I also I leveraged various learning resources and opportunities, notably SAF’s ePREP credits and NLB’s free Udemy account, to bridge the knowledge gap in the IT field. I engaged in self-study, online courses, and workshops to acquire foundational IT knowledge and relevant certifications.

Adapting to a new industry required me to be resilient and open to learning from both good and bad experiences. This meant being kinder to myself, especially when I experienced setbacks along the way.

What’s your advice for SAFRA members who are thinking about furthering their studies?

Furthering your studies is an investment in your personal and professional growth. It’s a transformative experience that can enrich your life and present new opportunities. Embrace the journey with enthusiasm, determination, and a willingness to acquire knowledge and face challenges.

Has your experience with the scheme made you more excited to check out other SAFRA member benefits?

I’ve yet to fully explore and take advantage of all the benefits available but I hope to, soon.

What other benefits have you enjoyed as a SAFRA member?

I’ve mostly enjoyed the discounts at dining outlets and cinemas. I’ve also participated in some of the recreational activities offered at SAFRA outlets.

Find out what career paths our previous awardees are forging now.


SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme- Aaron WeeAaron Wee, Business Strategy Manager

Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)

How did you hear about the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme?

I first became aware of the scheme five years ago, when I was an active SAFRA member. I chanced upon it again when I renewed my SAFRA membership and decided to apply for it.

What was the application experience like?

It was rushed. I was on my honeymoon when I saw the electronic direct mailer about the scheme and realised that I had just two days after returning to Singapore to submit my application.

What do you think clinched the sponsorship for you?

I believe my earnestness at the interview and my years of work experience put me in good stead with the panel.

How has being an award recipient made a difference to your career prospects?

It gave me the confidence to develop further in order to have more career options after I graduate.

How has the award enabled you to re-learn and upskill?

It’s allowed me to learn new and relevant skills without having to worry about money. As a newlywed with financial commitments, the award is especially meaningful to me.

How were you able to strike a work-life balance and switch careers all at the same time?

It’s not easy juggling school and work. It helps to have understanding bosses, who’ve allowed me to go on study leave as and when I need to.

What’s your advice for SAFRA members who are thinking about furthering their studies?

If you’re financially stable and have the support of your loved ones, you should take that leap.

Has your experience with the scheme made you more excited to check out other SAFRA member benefits?

Yes, I want to see if there’s anything else that might interest me.

What other benefits have you enjoyed as a SAFRA member?

Getting discounts and freebies and using various facilities.

Read about how the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme made a difference to our previous awardees.

Find out how you too can benefit from the SAFRA Bond-Free Education Scheme. Apply here.


Save more with SAFRA! Enjoy special deals and discounts on dining, entertainment, travel, fitness and more from over 1,500 merchant outlets islandwide. Sign up or renew your SAFRA membership for one year at $43.60 inclusive of GST) and get two years FREE! Plus, get your spouse and children on board to enjoy the same privileges too at $5.45/year. Visit safra.sg/savemore for more details.

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! 

Main photo: Polina Zimmerman from Pexels

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Why We Should Spend Time With Our Grands https://nsman.safra.sg/why-we-should-spend-time-with-our-grands/ Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:59:00 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=25686 Here's why you should spend more time with your grandparents.

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While we may have an increasingly fast-paced lifestyle, setting aside time to spend with grandparents is an important step in intergenerational bonding and can be both fun and educational. Sources of wisdom, experience, and interesting stories, grandparents are the gift that keeps on giving in our busy world.

1. Practical life lessons

Grandparents have a wealth of life experiences we can draw from. They have seen the world change and learned to adapt while picking up many valuable lessons along the way. Talking to grandparents can help grandchildren have a deep well of experiences to draw from, whether that is in the form of practical advice or perspectives. They can also anchor traditional values such as love, care, commitment and respect, which are often glossed over in modern culture but are sure to shine through when talking to them. Life can be complicated, but a helping hand from a grandparent can go a long way.

2. A chance to slow down

In the age of social media and modern technology, life can sometimes feel like a frantic rush. However, many grandparents come from a time before all that and are thus better able to look at life more objectively. Talking to grandparents can be a valuable reminder that other things are important besides what is on a screen, and it can be a chance to unplug from our stresses. This is especially true for spending more time with our families, as it gives us a chance to better understand and appreciate where we come from. In a hectic world, family has never been more important, and grandparents embody that.

3. Stories out of time

A huge benefit of spending quality time with your grandparents is the stories they can tell you. The grandparents’ long experience provides them with a wealth of anecdotes and tales from every aspect of their lives. Moreover, many grandparents have lived very different lives from us today, and their stories can give insights into how much the world has changed. These stories are often interesting to hear, and can allow the grandparent to walk down memory lane, giving both parties a pleasant experience. Stories are how people connect their experiences and share their lives, so pay attention when grandma talks about her childhood because often it will be worth it.

4. Joy in simple pleasures

Grandparents have a unique ability to remind us of the beauty in life’s simple pleasures — the joy of watching a sunset, the delight in playing a board game, the wonder of exploring nature or having fun visiting a new place. Their age and experience often manifest in an appreciation for the most important things in life, and being a product of a slower time can help us see the things we often miss. Taking a walk with a grandparent is a great way to bond with them, and it allows them to show some of those little things. Spending time with grandparents in a world filled with distractions allows grandchildren to slow down, be present, and appreciate the little things that bring happiness.

This article was first published by Families for Life.

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EnergyOne Personal Trainer Shares Workout Tips For The Ladies  https://nsman.safra.sg/energyone-personal-trainer-shares-workout-tips-for-the-ladies/ Mon, 11 Mar 2024 06:00:40 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=25638 How to get back into the fitness game.

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With more than 10 years of experience as a personal trainer and fitness instructor under her belt, including training clients at SAFRA’s EnergyOne gyms, Yong Pei Lin remains dedicated to honing her craft so that her clients can continue to benefit from not just her extensive experience, but also her passion for contemporary fitness developments. 

Beneath her composed and cool demeanour, though, lies a resolve to be her best self for those she loves. “It’s our responsibility to take good care of ourselves so that we remain accountable to the ones we love. And that will require consistency, discipline, and effort on our part,” she shares. 

With the Lunar New Year festivities just behind us, we asked Pei Lin for her input on some burning fitness questions that our female readers may have, so that they can return to the fray after weeks of delicious treats, hearty steamboat sessions and well-deserved breaks!

EnergyOne Personal Trainer Pei Lin with gym trainee using battle ropes
Pei Lin (left) with a gym trainee using Battling Ropes.

“It’s hard not to feel self-conscious after a long hiatus in my exercise routine. How do I get my momentum back?”

Pei Lin shares that it is perfectly normal to feel like you have lost your fitness ‘mojo’ after a break from working out. She says that you should take small steps. 

“Be sure to pace yourself out and dedicate more time for rest in between sets,” she stresses. Familiarity can also be your best asset. Starting with exercises or routines that you already know will help accelerate the assimilation process, while acting as a great starting point where you can only progress upwards. 

For beginners, Pei Lin recommends workouts centred around cardio. At the E1 gyms, there are dedicated lanes with treadmills and stair machines to help you kickstart your fitness pursuits. 

Ultimately, consistency is the name of the game if you’re looking to cultivate a long-standing fitness regime. “It really is like a skincare routine! Sticking to a daily schedule helps ground us in a healthy pattern that will gradually mature into a way of life. And don’t worry – results naturally accompany consistency,” she shares. 

“I like to think that I’m proactive with my fitness routine! I run every day with the occasional HIIT set. How do I progress from there?”

Pei Lin says, “The best thing about a fitness routine is just how flexible it is. You can enhance your daily runs or workouts with unique infusions to keep the workouts exciting and fresh!”

Here are some of Pei Lin’s recommended exercises for a full-body workout:  

  • Body Weight Squats 
  • Seated Cable Row
  • Lat Pulldown
  • Hyper Extensions 
  • Crunches
  • Push Ups

“You can experiment with various gym equipment so that you can safely perform strength training routines you couldn’t otherwise perform at home. Begin with free weights like dumbbells or a barbell. And make sure to end off your set with a 30-minute cardio session using the treadmill,” she adds. 

EnergyOne Personal Trainer Pei Lin

“Do you think it’s wise to just focus on toning without building muscles?”

“These two concepts actually go hand in hand,” says Pei Lin.

“Toning essentially allows us to look good in whatever we wear; whereas building muscles helps us not just look good, but also support our joints,” she explains. 

EnergyOne Personal Trainer Pei Lin

“I’m clueless at the gym. Where do I even begin?”

Pei Lin recommends three key workouts that are effective, yet easy, to execute: the Standing Shoulder Press, Bent Over Row and Kettlebell Lunges. See how it’s done in this video:

Standing Shoulder Press: Not only does it strengthen your upper body, but it also utilises your core to stabilise your elbows, wrists, and shoulders. Do it long enough, and you’ll see an improvement in your balance and posture.

Bent Over Row: Versatile and very effective, Bent Over Rows toughen your back muscles and biceps. By incorporating this compound exercise into your workout routine, you can enjoy improved muscle growth, better posture, and enhanced core stability.

Kettlebell Lunges: This lunge variant expands on your glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps to enhance your core stability, hip flexibility, and metabolism. 

In addition, she also stresses the importance of staying hydrated throughout your workout session. Perhaps you could even bring along a friend to work out with, or provide words of encouragement! 

If you’re still unsure, E1 has a professional team of personal trainers like Pei Lin who are excited to be part of your fitness journey! They will help you with workout routines that are kept simple so that you don’t overstretch yourself, and keep your routines consistent with your fitness goals and desired workout experience. If anything, it’s always nice to have a friendly face in the midst of the flurry that is common in any gym! 

2024 might just be the most opportune time to start, restart or elevate your fitness pursuits at E1 gyms with promotions for new sign-ups and renewals! Get more information at safra.sg/energyone-gym/promotions/jan—mar-2024-new-sign-ups-promotion—main-and-spouse

Also, be sure to read our previous article – Why You Have to Join The Newest Gym at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang – if you want to know more about E1’s latest and largest gym!


Save more with SAFRA! Enjoy special deals and discounts on dining, entertainment, travel, fitness and more from over 1,500 merchant outlets islandwide. Sign up or renew your SAFRA membership for one year at $43.60 inclusive of GST) and get two years FREE! Plus, get your spouse and children on board to enjoy the same privileges too at $5.45/year. Visit safra.sg/savemore for more details.

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