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AFTNews, Daily Digest

Thanyapura partners with StemCells21 to bring premium stem cell treatments to Phuket

Thanyapura Sports and Health Resort, Phuket has partnered with StemCells21 (SC21), a medical biotech company based in Bangkok, Thailand. With over a  decade of clinical history and 100 years of collective team experience, SC21 combines 21st century cellular medicine and cutting-edge supportive therapies to offer the highest quality stem cell treatments with Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells  (iPSCs). 

A first of its kind for Phuket, Thanyapura in partnership with SC21, will offer premium stem cell  treatments for various degenerative diseases, immune disorders, injuries and anti-ageing. The  treatments can also tackle a host of medical problems such as type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis,  chronic back pain and inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, as well as  strengthen body immunity and improve fertility.  

In the sporting world, regenerative medicine is seen as a crucial component and can aid in  optimising the human body to perform at a higher level, as well as being highly effective in the  treatment of sports injuries through faster healing, reduced injury inflammation and the  regeneration of injured tissue. The human-based regenerative therapy has been successful with  high calibre athletes for endurance enhancement and lengthening professional careers by  reducing injury rates. 

Guests can book a free dedicated one-on-one consultation with a certified stem cell specialist for their first session. Those seeking longer-term treatments can book a discounted stay at Thanyapura to utilise its world-class facilities, award-winning vegan and vegetarian restaurants and lifestyle clinic. 

Speaking about the new venture, President & CEO of Thanyapura World, Philipp Graf von  Hardenberg said, “We are excited to be working with SC21 to facilitate their first clinic outside of  Bangkok and deliver world-class treatment to guests and members at Thanyapura. This  partnership really supports in putting us on the global stage as a leading lifestyle optimisation  destination in the sports and lifestyle industry.”  

Treatment packages can be customised from the number of Premium Grade (P1) MSCs to the  treatment duration and include supportive therapies from a comprehensive health check-up to  the highest standards of after-care services. Thanyapura’s 360 approach will help in delivering  better, longer-lasting outcomes for challenging conditions that conventional therapies often fail  to address, such as stopping disease progression, as well as avoiding surgical intervention. 

“Stem cell therapy is a tool to optimise the human body to perform at a higher level, and we  want to make the environment of the body less hazardous and more harmonious for repair and  regeneration,” said Paul Collier, Founder and Managing Partner of SC21. “SC21 was founded  to provide treatments that few people know are available, and to offer health outcomes that are  superior to what most thought possible, and we are looking forward to bringing our experience  and expertise to Thanyapura.”  

Thanyapura will host a free interactive seminar with stem cell specialists from SC21 on Friday,  30 October 2020 at 11am (GMT + 7). The event, which will also be streamed live and recorded  on Facebook, offers a chance for audiences to gain first-hand knowledge and a deeper understanding of stem cells treatments from experts in the field.  

AFTNews, Daily Digest

Looking for energy? It may be in the muscles

A study of adults 50 years or older see themselves in good health, but want more  strength and energy 

Do you notice any physical changes such as low energy, slower walking speed, decreased strength, unintentional weight loss and fatigue? You may not realise this, but waning strength  and loss of energy is the first indication of compromised muscle health. 

As adults age, having energy throughout the day can involve some extra steps. A survey by the  American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and Abbott shows that they are not alone1. 

Abbott and AARP surveyed 1,480 Americans 50 years and older to better understand how they  view diet and health issues as they age, including muscle health. The survey asked adults to  rank specific elements of their health. A majority of the respondents viewed themselves in  good health, yet 50 percent wished they had more strength or energy to participate in the  activities they enjoy. 

The good news is that with some simple lifestyle changes, you can be on your way to long lasting strength and energy, showing age isn’t a limiting factor. 

1. Activate energy with activity 

Going old school on this tip. You may recall from science class, “a body in motion, stays in  motion”. Think about how that can apply to your daily routine. The American National  Institute on Aging reports that older adults who are inactive, can lose endurance, strength,  balance and flexibility – all key elements for a healthy life2. 

It is recommended that adults do some exercise for at least 30 minutes a day; for those aged  65 and older who are generally fit, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week3. 

Luckily, the AARP-Abbott survey found that many adults exercise multiple times a week,  which is a good first step to keeping healthy. 

Consider walking, swimming or cycling – all of these activities improve strength, flexibility  and balance. Looking for a more ambitious goal? Adults 40 years and older make up 40 to 50  percent of the people who finish marathons within their gender group, proving age does not  dictate how active you can be.

2. Mind your P’s 

Portion and protein, that is. What’s on an adult’s plate can impact how they feel and how active  they can be. A well-balanced and complete diet with nutrients that maximize strength and  energy includes fruits and vegetables, as well as lean meats, dairy and other protein-rich foods. 

As adults get older, their bodies absorb nutrients like protein differently, and protein is critical  in helping rebuild muscle. While we often know the types of food that are good, not as many  know how much of each they should be eating. According to the recent National Health and  Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019, 1 in 3 Malaysian adults demonstrated poor health knowledge  which hinders their ability to make healthy lifestyle choices. Research also shows that up to 9 out of 10 aging adults fail to meet the daily recommended amounts of varying key nutrients  recommended for a healthy and active life. To compound this issue, with Malaysians having  longer and busier work schedules, making the right nutritional choices can be difficult. 

“We hear about having a variety of foods on our plate, but it’s just as important to have the  right amount of those foods and nutrients, particularly protein, to help fuel the body inside  and out,” said Tiffany DeWitt, RD, a registered dietitian at Abbott. “Making small daily  nutritional changes can make a big impact on living a healthier, more active life.” 

If you are looking to fill nutrition gaps in your diet, consider including a complete nutritional  supplement like Ensure® Gold™, which is now available in a ready-to-drink option which  offers users all the key benefits of Ensure® Gold™ in a convenient on-the-go format.

3. Muscle up 

Muscles play a big role in your body – from your balance and posture to supporting your  overall immune health. Adults naturally start losing muscle around age 40, and this number  can accelerate with an illness and injury. This accelerated muscle loss can make recovery more  difficult or impact how much energy you have. Despite these facts, only 31 percent of those  surveyed were very or extremely concerned about losing lean muscle at this stage of life. 

“Investing in your muscles now will help you to continue to do the things you love and live a  healthier, more active life at any age,” said Dewitt. “While muscle loss will happen naturally as  you age, the good news is that it’s reversible with the right balance of proper nutrition and  exercise.”

1 Abbott Nutrition News. Press release. America’s Health Checkup. Available from  

http://www.nutritionnews.abbott/content/dam/an/newsroom/images/medialibrary/Press%20Releases/AARP% 20Abbott%20Survey%20Press%20Rel%20FINAL.pdf. Last accessed, 29 May 2019. 

2 National Institute of Aging. Infographics. Get fit for free. Available from  

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/infographics/get-fit-free. Last accessed, 29 May 2019. 3 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Physical activity basics. Available from  

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/index.htm?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fp hysicalactivity%2Fbasics%2Fadults%2Findex.htm. Last accessed, 29 May 2019.

AFTNews

Power World Gyms reinvents fitness options, introduces Pay-As-You-Go

Covid-19 is changing the way we live, work and play. A new normal is descending upon all mankind. With today’s ever-changing lifestyles, people are increasingly looking out for relevance and flexibility in their lifestyle choices. Fitness needs are no different.

Power World Gyms, the leading fitness chain in Sri Lanka and India with an undisputed reputation among fitness and gym enthusiasts, is once again reinventing the fitness industry with the launch of the pay-as-you-go payment option, allowing customers the freedom to choose at will when and where they wish to exercise. The newly rolled out ‘Proxone’ app will allow access to any and all of its gyms without the need for annual membership payments. 

Proxone offers freedom; from being locked into an annual membership, from paying for services that you hardly utilize, from being stuck to using only one gym, and from visiting the same place every time for the same activity.

‘It’s important to stay in line with today’s trends and shifts in consumer behavior, and offer relevant value-added services that best suit our fitness enthusiasts. The roll out of our pay-as-you-go to gym approach is a well thought-out and timely decision. We believe that anyone and everyone should be able to have freedom in fitness that blends well with their daily lifestyle with no constraints or limitations,’ said Talavou F. Alailima, Founder and Chairman, Power World Gyms.

‘The Proxone initiative supports President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s vision of making Sri Lanka a more healthy nation by nurturing a sports culture and Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa’s mission to build world-class sports programs and support structures in the country,’ he further added.

One only needs to download the Proxone app which is available in both Android and iOS versions, to unlock the door to a world of fitness choices. The Proxone app lists the gyms that are available for use and the price per one-and-a-half-hour time slot.  Simply choose the gym and the time slot between 5am and 11pm and click to pay with a wide range of credit cards and electronic wallets.

The rates for the one-and-half hour time slot vary depending on the gym location and time of day. Gone are the days where the gym industry requires its members to commit to large annual or quarterly memberships to only one given location. The pay-as-you-go is also great for fitness beginners or people who want to get back to the routine of exercise.

Power World Gyms is equipped with fully functional finger scan and management software to control access and abuse, CCTV monitoring for security, qualified and experienced fitness instructors and managers, amongst others features. Established in 1994 with a vision to bring fitness centers to every neighborhood, Power World Gyms today boasts a network of 23 gyms in Sri Lanka, and a network of gyms in India.

Footwear

PUMA brings the uncatchable PUMA ULTRA to Malaysia

Sports company PUMA has launched the revolutionary ULTRA 1.1 football boot, bringing groundbreaking innovation and uncatchable speed to the world of football. Speed is in PUMA’s DNA, continuing this legacy PUMA introduce the next generation of speed. The ULTRA 1.1 features PUMA exclusive MATRYXEVO® technology, providing elite-level stability, durability and traction. The speed boots are launched in Malaysia today following the global launch recently.

Following years of testing and player feedback from some of the world’s best attacking players, including Antoine Griezmann, Sergio Agüero and Nikita Parris, the PUMA ULTRA 1.1 is engineered to deliver the game’s fastest football boot. Combining a dynamic silhouette that utilizes a fully engineered and technologically advanced, lightweight MATRYXEVO® upper with an instinctive running spike outsole to create the ultimate weapon for speed.

The MATRYXEVO® upper enables PUMA to utilize a single layer of material that is closer to the foot, whilst providing outstanding support at an extraordinary light weight. This signals the first time this material has ever been utilized in a football boot. 

“A key feature of the new MATRYXEVO® material is that it is one layer. We wanted to embed all the functionality into one upper material to make it as foot-friendly as possible. This helps to create a superior fit without perforating the material to keep it lightweight, strong and durable. The feedback from our professional players and our consumer testing has been exceptional,” said Roman Girard, Senior Head of Innovation, PUMA.

After years of testing the materials properties, PUMA has worked with its partners to develop a method to coat each individual fiber – an industry first, and constructed the perfect blend of polyester yarns, carbon yarns and aramid fibers. The extremely strong aramid fibers run through the lateral side of the upper. Player feedback identified that players needed more support on the lateral side to keep them locked in, preventing the material stretching over the tooling. The carbon yarns provide superior lightweight benefits and additional foot support to ignite explosive forward motion.

Peter Stappen, Lead Product Line Manager, PUMA said: “Our goal was not to create the lightest boot possible, but to create a speed boot with optimal weight for speed to ensure features such as control, traction and comfort were not compromised. We were not about chasing grams, but about chasing adrenaline. When we put all the components together, the boot had all the essential properties we wanted; comfort, stability and durability but maintained an exceptionally light weight.”

A GripControl Pro skin has been applied to key areas of the upper to provide complete and decisive control of the ball when moving at uncatchable speeds. Bonded to the upper is a lightweight PEBA SpeedUnit outsole, featuring a split sole design inspired by PUMA running spike DNA for dynamic acceleration. The sole plate combines subtle ‘spikes’ in the forefoot and V-shaped blades for added aerodynamics, configured for explosive speed.

The PUMA ULTRA 1.1, retailing for RM829, is now available across major PUMA stores, Football Republic, and TFC outlets nationwide. 

AFTNews

Malaysia… Get fit with the fun Coway Run 2020!

With the COVID-19 pandemic severely limiting fun runs, marathons, and the like, virtual runs are a blessing. We, at Asia Fitness Today, are delighted with the Coway Run 2020 announcement which allows participants to fulfill their need for activity and the chance to win some exciting prizes too!

Everyone knows that running is a great way to get into shape, but it also can benefit almost every part of your body – strengthening bones and muscles, improving cardiovascular health and burning calories. Experts have pointed that running helps improve one’s mental and physical health. Running is a blissful, rhythmic and meditative activity that just a 30-minute run is said to lift the mood. Whether it’s your favourite part of the day or something you have to push yourself through, the benefits are undeniable!

Running can indeed be fun, social and interactive. This is precisely what Coway Malaysia has in mind for their upcoming Coway Run 2020: Change The Game this November, poised to be one of the most exciting virtual run this year! The month-long run allows participants from across the country to run anywhere (even in their bedroom) and anytime from 1 to 29 November 2020. 

Any Malaysian citizen or resident in the country (aged 16 and above) can participate in the non-timed 40km run, which allows runners to run at a comfortable speed and pace to gradually progress from Levels 1 to 4 within the run period. The virtual run is perfect for the introvert who may want to run solo daily around the neighbourhood or within their own premises (especially if weather proves to be challenging), and for the extrovert who may opt to go the distance with family and friends. Either way, just be sure to maintain the one-metre physical distancing requirement at all times! 

To take it up a notch higher, some fun and interactivity has been injected into the month-long event. Aimed at motivating runners to complete the entire run within the stipulated period, it involves a ‘level-up’ gaming experience through which runners can collect achievement badges when they complete significant milestones throughout the run − Level 1 (first 3km), Level 2 (10km mark), Level 3 (20km mark) and Level 4 (40km mark). 

To further enliven the experience, the Coway Run 2020 will include the weekly Sunday Boss Fight rounds from 7am to 11am − offering runners who clock in a minimum of 1km during the allotted time frame the opportunity to vie for attractive weekly prizes. 

To participate in the event, interested runners will have to register online at the Coway Run 2020 website before 29 November 2020. Participants are also required to sync their running or fitness app to their VRace by Sportheroes account, a purpose-built platform for virtual running events which allows participants to record the distance covered within the virtual run. 

What is also exciting for runners is that the Coway Run 2020 is not just another virtual fun run. In fact, it is pegged to a notable charitable cause! RM10 from each ticket purchased will be channelled to Coway’s Happy Water Project, which funds initiatives to provide clean water and promote good hygiene practices amongst poor, Orang Asli communities nationwide. This year, more than 300 families are expected to benefit from the five-year project which aims to support the needs of 1,000 Orang Asli families by the end of 2021. 

So, while joining Malaysia’s bid to get fitter and healthier, reap the physical and mental benefits from participating in the Coway (Virtual) Run 2020, and explore the opportunity to win more exciting prizes at the event. Burn calories while contributing towards a larger mission to provide access to clean and safe water to one of Malaysia’s greatest treasures!

To sign up for the run, register here: www.eventbrite.sg/e/coway-run-2020-change-the-game-virtual-run-tickets or for more information, visit: www.cowayrun.com.my. Details on the Happy Water Project are available at  www.coway.com.my/happywaterproject

AFTNews, Features Singapore

HomeTeamNS Debuts Singapore’s First Smart Clubhouse in Khatib

The new 21,000sqm Khatib Clubhouse comes sustainably designed with many first of-its-kind facilities and a plethora of amenities 

HomeTeamNS has opened the new Khatib Clubhouse, the first-ever ‘smart’ clubhouse in Singapore equipped with digital capabilities, eco-friendly innovations and multiple first-of-its-kind facilities. 

HomeTeamNS is a non-profit organisation set up to recognise the invaluable contributions of the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) NSmen to the safety and security of the nation. HomeTeamNS aims to build a greater sense of camaraderie amongst SPF and SCDF NSmen by providing a shared environment for them to network and build bonds through sporting and social activities. 

The Khatib Clubhouse had its groundbreaking ceremony on 12 July 2018 and is purpose-built with the needs of Home Team National Servicemen (NSmen) in mind. The 21,000 square metre five-storey clubhouse is located within walking distance of Khatib MRT station and has an ‘urban retreat’ theme. It caters to NSmen from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), in recognition and appreciation of their contributions towards Singapore’s safety and security, and leverages technology to provide an engaging experience for them and their families. 

“The opening of the HomeTeamNS Khatib Clubhouse is very timely, given that we are also celebrating our 15th Anniversary this year. HomeTeamNS has come a long way since its inception in 2005. This year, we celebrate the bond between our Home Team NSmen and their families under the theme ‘We are Family’,” said Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, President of HomeTeamNS. “To encourage and help foster better relationships between our men and their families, HomeTeamNS will introduce new family-centric initiatives and membership rewards in the upcoming months,” he added.

Ms Agnes Eu, Chief Executive of HomeTeamNS, said: “Since the groundbreaking ceremony in 2018, various HomeTeamNS committees, including our Development Committee and Advisory Panel, have been heavily involved in the planning and development of the new Khatib Clubhouse. We are pleased to unveil what promises to be an innovative and unique experience for NSmen, by NSmen, and where members of the HomeTeamNS community can bond through social, recreational and sporting activities.” 

“The Clubhouse and its offerings are sustainably designed and purpose-built to cater to the needs and aspirations of current and future generations of the HomeTeamNS community, and to foster Home Team identity and pride,” Ms Eu added. “Through the introduction of unique experiences supported by eco-conscious technology, we aim to lead the change and inspire new benchmarks for how clubhouses operate – in terms of design, facilities and offerings.” 

HomeTeamNS’ Khatib Clubhouse boasts a number of firsts in the history of clubhouses in Singapore. They are: 

1) Largest Multi-Installation Indoor Adventure Hub 

Spanning 2,800 square metres across four storeys, Adventure HQ is Singapore’s largest multi-installation indoor hub – complete with ten kaleidoscopic installations that cater to thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies of all levels. 

The all-weather facility, which features dynamic obstacle and aerial installations designed for recreational activity, cohesion-bonding and team-building activities, is home to many firsts, including: 

• Singapore’s first indoor Roll Glider at 233m long 

• Singapore’s longest indoor slide at 14m long 

• Singapore’s first 165m-long indoor artificial caving 

• Singapore’s first-of-its-kind 15m Cloud Climb 

• Singapore’s biggest two-tiered, 16-obstacle indoor challenge rope course 

Adventure HQ at Khatib also comes with a variety of high and low obstacles such as a ninja course, sensory adventure trails and various rock and boulder climbing walls.

2) Indoor Player versus Player (PvP) Airsoft Arena 

Due to open in Q4 2020, TactSim, Singapore’s first indoor Player versus Player (PvP) airsoft arena is designed as an indoor Tactical Simulator to help Home Team NSmen improve their marksmanship, decision-making and leadership skills in an urban environment. Offering a range of realistic equipment and unique gameplay environment, TactSim features multiple programming possibilities incorporating realistic security-related and emergency scenarios. 

Participants can engage in skirmishes or scenario games against each other in groups of up to 40 players per game, using airsoft replicas that launch 6mm plastic pellets at safe velocities. In compliance with prevailing COVID-19 Safe Management Measures, the group size is currently limited to ten players (five against five per game). Catering to all levels of airsoft enthusiasts, TactSim comes with one target shooting range and two PvP airsoft arenas specially equipped with advanced moving wall panels, creating a different environment for every round and maximising gameplay experience. 

3) Peranakan-themed Indoor Playground 

At 650 square metres, T-Play Khatib is the only Peranakan-themed indoor playground in Singapore, inspired by the pioneering spirit of early Peranakans and the vibrant colours and images associated with the culture. In partnership with The Intan, Singapore’s award-winning Peranakan Home Museum, HomeTeamNS has incorporated Singapore’s rich Peranakan culture into the playground at T-Play Khatib, where parents and their children can appreciate Peranakan culture through a unique and enjoyable audio, visual and sensory experience. 

The indoor children’s playground encourages parent-child bonding through interactive structures and play elements that are designed to allow children to freely express their creativity. Key highlights include a climbing slide tunnel, sports pitch, a foam ball shooting arena, an interactive trampoline, ball pit and a ninja course, all conceptualised to engage the child’s brain development, motion coordination and sense of direction.

Range of other facilities for all ages 

The new Khatib clubhouse also comes equipped with a range of other recreational facilities and F&B outlets to cater to the needs of the HomeTeamNS community, including four ManCaves decked out with the latest entertainment gizmos and a private BBQ patio. The ManCaves come in two sizes –55 square metres (“Regular) and 90 square metres (“Deluxe”). These ManCaves make the perfect urban hangout spaces for NSmen to gather, rekindle friendships and build camaraderie. 

The clubhouse is also home to the largest and only Fitness Workz Premium gym, spanning 1,500 square metres. Fully loaded with state-of-the-art equipment and nine premium workout zones, Fitness Workz Premium comes equipped with an assortment of cardiovascular machines, functional and conditioning training via first-of-its-kind Guardians Bridge, a free and plate-loaded weights zone, as well as a mezzanine floor for both fitness courses and unique boxing vault sessions. Fitness Workz Premium also comes with an Endless Ladder, which SCDF firefighters use to improve their limb coordination and cardiovascular stamina. This underscores HomeTeamNS’ efforts in providing specialised training equipment to specifically meet our NSmen’s fitness needs. 

Aside from the new and exciting facilities available at HomeTeamNS Khatib, the clubhouse will also house many popular F&B, entertainment, recreational and educational outlets. 

To ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors, Safe Management Measures are in place across all HomeTeamNS clubhouses, including Khatib.

Shaping an energy-efficient environment 

Designed by the award-winning DP Architects in collaboration with Architectural engineering firm WSP, the Khatib Clubhouse was built with a sustainable and community-oriented mandate in mind. Accorded the BCA Green Mark Platinum certification, the clubhouse comes with energy-efficiency features, such as charging stations for electric cars, solar panels, smart lighting controls, rainwater harvesting and more. 

Sustainable innovations that help offset overall energy consumption include the multiple volume indoor arena which utilises passive cooling and open air breeze, consuming no more electricity than the equivalent of one light bulb, and approximately 1,370 square metres of solar photovoltaic panels housed on the rooftop which can generate 198,000 kWh of electricity annually. The clubhouse’s new rainwater harvesting system will also play a significant role in water conservation.

HomeTeamNS Khatib is also the first clubhouse in Singapore to incorporate an ECO filtration system for its swimming pool, which sanitises the water without the need for chemicals like chlorine, and has twice the lifetime usage of conventional decontamination methods. The ECO filtration system also requires less water for cleaning, saving up to 30 per cent of water. 

Clubhouse 3.0 

In a bid to create seamless online-to-offline experiences, the clubhouse will also leverage technology to help better engage members, providing them with a comfortable and seamless visitation experience. The new digital offerings will cater to the changing needs and aspirations of current and future generations of NSmen, and their families. 

Innovations such as self-service kiosks and “chatbots” will allow members to renew their membership, make payments and book facilities with greater ease. 

The HomeTeamNS Mobile App will allow members to access these features on the go, and check crowd levels and access member-exclusive facilities via their digital membership card across all HomeTeamNS clubhouses. HomeTeamNS membership rewards and benefits can also be redeemed via this app. 

HomeTeamNS 15th Anniversary – Celebrating Family 

In appreciation of the Lifesavers (Singapore Civil Defence Force) and Protectors (Singapore Police Force), HomeTeamNS is celebrating its 15th Anniversary with the theme “We are Family”, focusing on helping Home Team NSmen foster stronger relationships with their loved ones. 

To commemorate this anniversary, a series of exciting family-centric initiatives will be rolled out in the coming months. The rewards and incentives will include membership and clubhouse tenant promotions. More information will be provided in October 2020. 

Do follow HomeTeamNS’ Facebook page, for the latest updates. More details on the Khatib Clubhouse can be found on https://www.hometeamns.sg/khatib/. Members can also download the HomeTeamNS mobile app via https://www.hometeamns.sg/mobile-app/. 

Mental Health, Travel & Wellness, Wellness

Keeping active in Germany, from the North Sea to the Alps

Fed up with not being able to travel? Bored with looking at the same backdrop every time you work out? Here at Asia Fitness Today, we relish the chance to be able to enjoy the scenery from Germany.

With plenty of breath-taking vistas in Germany, there is something for everyone when keeping active during the holiday season, whether they are rivers and lakes or mountains and valleys. While traveling to Germany may not yet be a  possibility in 2020, countries like Singapore and Germany are making inroads to ensure safe travels for holiday-goers in time to come so that we can #DreamNowVisitLater. Additionally, with the #DiscoverGermanyFromHome campaign, launched by the German  National Tourist Board, visitors from Southeast Asia can virtually experience destinations in Germany — across the 16 federal states — from the comfort of their own homes. Plus, with all the fitness regimes and goals accomplished during Circuit Breaker or lockdown, training for cross-country biking will now be a breeze. 

The Best of Both Worlds: City and Country  

With more than 200 long-distance cycling routes in Germany, there are plenty of opportunities to see what its cities and countryside have to offer. The Rhine Cycle Route provides the quintessential German experience. With the river being at the heart of life in many parts of Germany, cyclists can explore the history, culture, and significance of the river from its source in the Alps to the North Sea coast. This route passes many UNESCO World  Heritage sites, including the celebrated 194-metre-high Loreley Rock cliff in the Upper  Middle Rhine Valley, as well as the idyllic medieval-era town of Constance, known for its impressive council building that was the home of the 1417 papal election. 

Meander Through Germany’s Wine Regions 

A 360° virtual ride of the Moselle

Cyclists who like to enjoy a taste of the finer things in life can explore routes through German wine country and vineyards. During the ultimate German Wine Route, cyclists traipse through one of the largest wine regions in Germany, where lush vineyards drape the terraced slopes between the foothills of the Palatinate Forest and Rhinland Plain. Here,  there are plenty of taverns and wineries where pitstops to taste Rieslings, Pinot Blancs and Dornfelders are not only recommended but a way of life. For those looking for an alternative, the Moselle Cycle Route cuts through the southern Vosges mountains in France and takes cyclists through the twists and turns of romantic valleys and Middle Moselle Roman wine presses. This cycling path also meanders past the Bliesgau UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known as the Tuscany of the Saarland with a rich culinary culture. Visitors interested in taking this route, can also hop on the 360° virtual ride and ride through the loops and curves of the Moselle, from Koblenz to France. 

Relive a Part of Germany’s Magical History 

History buffs can take in the sights and sounds of the Allgäu Castle Park Cycle Loop, a 219-kilometre long route that comprises both scenic, historical, and culturally stimulating experiences. After drinking in the sights of Füssen’s old town, the trail leads cyclists to  Hohenschwangau, with its stunningly regal views of Alpine peaks, royal palaces and museums dedicated to Ludwig II — the fairy tale king. This path takes cyclists through the foothills of the majestic Alps, with plenty of castles, palaces, and monasteries to visit,  including the Falkenstein Castle, Pilgrimage Church of Wies — a UNESCO World Heritage  Site — and the Kaltentaler Brauhaus, known for its home-brewed beers.  

Hike Through a Slice of Paradise 

Those who may not be comfortable on bicycles can also explore Germany’s many athletic,  leisurely, family-friend and cultural hikes. With 50 routes of varying categories and a  200,000-kilometre network of trails that are peppered through some of the most stunning  terrains, going on foot does not have to mean missing out on the beautiful sights and sounds  of Germany. Roam through nature parks, national parks, UNESCO Biosphere Reserves,  and even mountain summits — all complete with hiker-friendly accommodation and  hospitality.  

A day-long hike on the 66 Lakes Trail — an hour outside Berlin — takes visitors through numerous lakes, streams, rivers, and marshes while marveling at historic monuments like the Sanssouci Palace and Cecilienhof Palace. Spectacular waterscapes aside, the Heidschnuckenweg Trail takes hikers through a sea of idyllic lilac fields and heaths dotted with Heidschnucke sheep, whose delicious meat and carpet-making wool are renowned in the region.  

Dubbed as one of Germany’s most beautiful hiking trails, The Painters’ Way combines romantic hikes in the Elbe Sandstone mountains with enchanting landscapes that provided inspiration for Romantic-era painters such as Caspar David Friedrich. Such views clearly transcend time, being the backdrop of Hollywood movies like The Chronicles of Narnia and  The Grand Budapest Hotel. If leisurely trails are the order of the day, opt for the Goldsteig  Trail, a classic Bavarian route named after the once-precious commodity of salt, or “white gold”. Now, it is more famous for the unmistakable Bavarian beer, where the amber nectar perfectly matches the region’s hearty cuisine. 

Cycling or hiking, there is plenty to discover in Germany’s expansive natural landscapes,  Alpine forests, as well as culturally significant locales.  

#staysafe #stayathome #traveltomorrow #DreamNowVisitLater

AFT TV, Features Hong Kong

A Cameroonian in Hong Kong named Alain Ngalani

Video

Today, this Ngalani instagram post drew 21,000 likes and over 500 comments on Ngalani’s contorted flexibility.

Win some, lose some

Whenever Alain Ngalani competes, fireworks are guaranteed! The above video showcases “The Panther’s” victories in The Home of Martial Arts, including his highlight-reel spinning heel kick knockout of Mahmoud Hassan!

2017 flashback to Aung La N Sang vs. Alain Ngalani

AFT TV, Boxing

Punching Through Constraints: Independent, Asian-American director creates agency-level, spec commercial

Video

[Editor’s Note: The featured video contains not only the “I believe” spec commercial but also its credits and making of. If you’re interested in how it’s made, it’s a good look.]

Studio Gata, the professional identity of writer/director/producer, Kevin Kamin, recently released the independently produced spec boxing commercial, “I believe”. As a minority and an advocate for diverse representation in media, it was personally important to Kamin that the commercial celebrated racial diversity and female empowerment. These values aligned perfectly with the subject: a female-owned, professional boxing gym where identity is never judged–– all that matters is how much fire you bring to the gym. 

Production photo from Believer’s Boxing Gym commercial

This was a passion project. It was self-funded by Kamin and its sole purpose was to be a demo reel building endeavor.  He firmly believes that productions should be composed of specialists that have the time and resources required to  complete their jobs at a high level. This is in sharp contrast to the modern day trend with independent micro crews,  where each crew member can wear a half dozen hats and often the results fall short. He assembled a crew of twenty seven and a cast of fifteen. Key roles were experienced professionals who mentored support roles composed of  local emerging talent. Filming spanned two states and post-production occurred in three countries. It was made  completely outside of an agency or studio system. The project was rife with challenges and the budget was modest,  but the production was able to overcome these challenges and constraints with creative and innovative solutions 

Kamin loves the sport of boxing and has trained for several years. As a director, he brings that intimate knowledge and  passion to every decision in the commercial, from casting and scripting, to cinematography and editing. His attention to  detail and respect for the art and science of boxing shows in the elevated, cinematic quality of the commercial. 

Kamin currently works in the media industry, heading a post-production and animation department at a Fortune 100  company. He is shifting his focus back to his core passion, filmmaking and content creation. 

AFT TV, Features Australia/NZ, Our Environment

What will 2040 look like for your sons, daughters, nieces and nephews?

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The creators of That Sugar Film (2014) have produced the next impact film that is already an issue on everyone’s minds…

Global warming and our environment – envisioning your life in 2040.

A still from “2040” of Damon Gameau and his family planting a tree 
TOGETHER FILMS – as featured in a Forbes interview with Gameua.

18-months back, New York Times journalist Kendra Pierre-Louis cited the journal, Science in her report about, “oceans heating up 40 percent faster on average than a United Nations panel estimated five years ago”. 

A dead coral reef in waters off Indonesia. Credit…Ethan Daniels/Stocktrek Images, via Science Source. Read more about oceans warming up in this New York Times article.

Produced by MadMan Films with a long accolade of partners and funders who have joined in the call for “Regeneration” in this impact film, this hybrid feature documentary by Australian award-winning director Damon Gameau (known for That Sugar Film 2015) asks what the year 2040 would look like for his now 4-year old daughter. Gameau asks for us to embrace solutions that are already available now, with the objective to save our planet and regenerate the world for future generations. He asks, #WhatsYour2040 and this project is the coolest (pun intended) thing this planet has seen for it calls for viewers to make their own impact in these areas:

1. Climate Change

Since the industrial revolution, progress made by humans has also increased the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. 

2. Marine Renegeration

Our oceans absorb almost all of the excess heat in the atmosphere, and as a result, the surging water temperatures slowly destroy marine ecosystems, raising sea levels and cause many other catastrophes like hurricanes.

3. Regenerative Agriculture

Plants use carbon dioxide and energy from the sun to create simple sugars. The plant uses some of these sugars to grow, while the rest are sent into the soil through the roots to feed microbes and other tiny critters. 

4. Renewable Energy

Generating electricity accounts for almost half of all of our global emissions – mostly due to coal, oil and gas. Why generate energy from fossil fuel when there are other renewable energy options like wind or solar?

5. Education of Women & Girls

Educating women and girls for better population management when there’s an understanding of family planning. Read more here: https://whatsyour2040.com/educating-girls/.

6. Circular Economy

According to climate scientists, unless we can reduce our consumption by at least 20%, we are likely to experience some serious climate trouble by 2040. Reduce, reuse, recycle put into practise seriously can help shift and propel a truly circular economy.

7. Transport

By 2040 it’s estimated that an extra 1 billion cars will join the 1.2 billion already occupying our roads. 

Join the Regeneration now

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