Category Archives: Fitness

Nasi Lemak Shoes by ASICS

The Nasi Lemak has been a staple of Malaysian food for years and you can find it almost anywhere in the country, at any time of the day. There have been a few variations of the famous dish but shoes is a new one.

ASICS Malaysia has announced its first-ever foray into the local sneaker scene with a special rendition of the GEL-KAYANO 5 OG, inspired by the Nasi Lemak dish, presented by local multi-label retail store, Hundred% (hundred percent) and Malaysia’s biggest sneaker event, SneakerLAH, held on 5 – 6 October 2019.

Giving a local twist to the famed retro silhouette of the GEL-KAYANO 5 OG, it transformed an ordinary sneaker into something close to the hearts of many Malaysians by taking inspiration from the nation’s popular dish.

Not quite yummy in the tummy but is as delicious for your feet

This special edition of the GEL-KAYANO 5 OG design represents the vibrant colours of the Nasi Lemak dish to reflect the unity amongst the diverse cultures in Malaysia. Off-white represents the rice and egg white, while green  signifies cucumber. Red reflects the chilli paste, while yellow takes the form of the yolk. The whole palette is finished off with a hint of brown, reflecting the nuts and anchovies.

“What we love about the shoe colourway re-design is that; it centres around the nasi lemak which is a dish that everyone likes and a societal knot that all Malaysians can relate to and instantly love,” said Boon Tib Soom Nik, Country Manager of ASICS Malaysia.

“Through this shoe, we hope to share with everyone that feeling of unity, and to spread the love to all corners of the globe,” he added.

The GEL-KAYANO 5 OG ‘Nasi Lemak Shoe’ was available for purchase at SneakerLAH 2019 for RM599 and had only a limited quantity of 500.

 

Getting Tired Just Got Harder with ASICS GLIDERIDE

Saving runners energy: ASICS has revealed how the eagerly awaited GLIDERIDE™ has successfully adapted the GUIDESOLE™ technology, first introduced in the METARIDE™ concept, and placed it on the feet of more runners in a unique race featuring participants of different abilities from around the world.  

AN ENERGY REVOLUTION

The human-centric GUIDESOLE™ technology is an ergonomic precision-shaped curved sole that reduces energy loss.  It works by minimizing lower leg movement through the stride – giving a feeling of effortless coasting – to make it easier for runners to keep going for longer.

Increasing the accessibility of the GUIDESOLE™ technology was the inspiration behind the new shoe. Engineered by a team of scientific experts and designers at ASICS Institute of Sport Science (ISS), the development of GLIDERIDE™ was fast-tracked to get the new technology to more runners as quickly as possible. 

The result? The new GLIDERIDE™ has taken the category-leading GUIDESOLE™ technology a further step forward.  Whilst providing maximum energy saving, it is lighter, with a less extreme curve and more cushioning than the concept shoe – increased comfort. 

In tests, GLIDERIDE™ has been scientifically proven to:

  • Reduce total energy loss at the ankle joint, where runners expend the most energy 
  • Improve cushioning for increased comfort 
  • Reduce weight while maintaining stability to provide both performance and protection

Kenichi Harano, Executive Officer and Senior General Manager at ISS, said: “The positive reception and speed at which runners adopted the new technology spurred us on to develop GLIDERIDE™ in record time.  With no compromise on efficiency, it offers a cushier ride that we believe has the potential to help runners of every level significantly improve performance to go further than they thought possible”.

GET AHEAD WITH THE CURVE

To demonstrate what energy saving really means for runners, ASICS put the theory to the test in a unique race on the Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah on 7 September 2019. 

The race, designed by an expert team of sports scientists, ASICS RUNKEEPER™ data analysts, elite coaches and engineers saw 22 runners of different abilities from around the world put the latest technology and theory in running performance to the test. Participants explored how energy saving technology can assist them in improving performance in the ultimate battle against themselves in a race without a finish line.

“We effectively took our research lab from Kobe to the Salt Flats to understand directly from runners how they can benefit from our energy saving technology in a real-life situation,” commented Harano.  “What we learnt proves the importance of optimizing energy and will fuel our next generation technologies beyond footwear.”   

Yasuhito Hirota, ASICS President and COO, said: “This latest innovation is a major milestone in achieving our goal to make our energy saving technology available to all runners. In Spring 2020, we will launch the next shoe in the family, EVORIDE™.  And it doesn’t finish there. ASICS commitment to this new category extends beyond footwear with the planned introduction of further innovations to our in-store and on-line services”.

Retails for MYR629, the GLIDERIDE™ will be available for men and women at selected ASICS retail stores and www.asics.com from 4 October 2019.

Starting your pain-free journey with a postural check

Singapore ranks among the highest in the world for body and head pain, according to the 2017 GSK Global Pain Index which surveyed 19,000 adults across 32 countries. About 85 percent of 500 Singaporeans surveyed reported having experienced head and body pain, with four in 10 suffering body pain every week. The statistics of pain are not just attributed to an aging population, statistics of more cases of knee arthritis plaguing young and active Singaporeans have been on the rise as well.  

There are different degrees of sedentary danger

However, there are hidden muscle groups in our bodies that are under-utilised and sadly in the case of a population growing ever sedentary, completely switched off. For many Singaporeans, the muscles in the hip complex are not triggering, which becomes a major cause of concern, affecting people across all ages and walks of life. 

As the growing number of patients suffering from chronic pain from and without exercise increases, it becomes clearer that a postural check is becoming as important as a health check, and that having a good trainer, who knows the exercises you need to guide you along is the way forward.

Unfortunately, Singaporeans are not as aware of their health as they would like to think. The issues and problems that eventually result in chronic pain are often compounded, and people only get aware of it when pain and discomfort comes and doesn’t go away. Here are some things we can do today to address pain before you feel it and to see how a postural check is essential in helping the muscles in the hip complex.

Understanding the hip complex 

The muscles in the hip complex are part of the human kinetic chain, when strong and mobile, it helps to relieve pressure from your lower back & knee joints (two of the most problematic joints), minimising the chance of injuries.

There is a wide range of movement that is available to our anatomy. In the case of the hip complex, understanding the range of motion that you have is important.

People tend to be stronger in front to back movements (sagittal plane) as seen in when we sit down and stand up. We enjoy a similar level of strength through rotational movements (transverse plane) when we get in and out of cars.

However, we are weaker through side-to-side movements (frontal plane) when we engage in more demanding physical activities, such as salsa, or belly dancing. No matter how you look at it, the hip complex is an integral part of many movements that we engage in to get through our day, and the list gets even more detailed.

The planes of movements we have available to the hip complex

Get a postural check done

Similar to a health screening, a postural check is important, it gives you a detailed front, side, and back view. This overall picture gives your trainers and your health coaches insights into any lapses in your posture, to clearly identify the problems you are facing now, and to prevent other issues that could arise from a neglected hip complex.                            

Fixing bad habits

Posture and the way we move is inherently unique between individuals. A good postural check will reveal the bad habits that you are unaware of. 

Here are some of the common ones that we see in regards to the hip complex:

1) Locking your knees when you are standing. Are you aware of the weight shift when you stand? Are you favouring one leg more than the other? Being attuned to the weight shift when you stand, will let you and your trainer know the steps to take to regain a neutral stance.

2) Tight calf muscles. A common problem that comes with a dormant hip complex. Under the careful supervision of a qualified trainer and with a set of exercises done with a wobble board, the tightness will be gone before you know it. Looking good in heels in useless if you come back home in pain ladies.                            

3) Forward head tilt. Our excessive use of screens and weak back muscles are a primary cause of this.   

4) Forward roll on shoulders, and a rounded back. Being hunched over the desk using the computer for long hours is a key culprit.             

Switching on and off certain muscles

Activate your core”. The advice we hear from fitness professionals more often these days. Just because your core is fired up during a planking exercise does not mean that it has to be all the time. 

By referring to the postural check, your trainer will be able to gauge from how you move to identify which muscles are overworking, and which ones are overly dormant. This knowledge is invaluable to prescribing the right exercises. Muscles that are unknowingly being fired up all the time, you will eventually encounter issues of muscle imbalance, which can result in unnecessary injury.

In conclusion

The importance of posture and how bad posture can damage you

Singapore’s push for more exercise across the board is a great direction, the Exercise Is Medicine Singapore initiative has been gaining traction, where more medical professionals are subscribing to include exercise as part of their patients’ prescriptions as we see benefits that range from combatting lifestyle diseases to curing chronic pain. The human body is a fascinating and complex machine, able to compensate to still function a detailed article gives us a glimpse of the other ways that our bodies could otherwise respond.

With the advancements in sports science, exercise prescriptions have changed over the years. And the importance of the muscles in the hip complex become ever more relevant to an increasingly digital lifestyle. Understand that everyone is different, the exercises that we should follow through from our postural checks might seem challenging, and the changes look small, but they are ultimately crucial for us to live pain-free.                      

 

ASICS relaunches GEL-KINSEI™, its iconic early millennial runner

The GEL-KINSEI™ shoe is a renowned high mileage running shoe with superior comfor and bold look and ASICS is bringing it back after 10 years in further classic iterations. 

Available since September, the re-imagined sneaker features premium athletic wear and technical running products born from ASICS’ 70-year history of advanced technology and human-centric science.

The design of the GEL-KINSEI™ shoe was heavily inspired by the Samurai and their equipment

The designer of the GEL-KINSEI™ shoe, Hisanori Fujita, was heavily inspired by the Samurai and their equipment. From their armor, which protects the body while still allowing freedom of movement, to their Katana, which informed the shape of the heel on the GEL-KINSEI™ shoe. The shoe’s design blends traditional Japanese heritage in its ethos with the bold, technical, mechanical styling of the early Millennium.

“In school I knew of ASICS. Everyone does,” explained Fujita. “What I learned was that I could connect my love of sport and my love of design at ASICS.”

First released in 2006, the GEL-KINSEI™ shoe’s design was instantly lauded as advanced. One of the most technical running shoe on the market, it combined ASICS’ trademark I.G.S™ (IMPACT GUIDANCE SYSTEM) technology with a Discreet Heel Unit that featured three large sections of GEL™ technology bonded directly to it. Meanwhile, the weight-reducing TRUSSTIC™ technology, first presented in the GEL-KINSEI™ shoe and placed under the arch of the shoe, reduces the overall weight of the shoe thereby extending the life of the sole unit.

With its BIOMORPHIC FIT™ upper, the forefoot of the GEL-KINSEI™ shoe is identical to the GEL-KAYANO™ 12 shoe, with impressive comfort and flexibility. The magic of GEL–KINSEI™ shoe is, however, found in the heel. Three sections of GEL™ technology in the rearfoot cushion the foot at impact and adapt to the stability needs of the runner as the foot travels through the gait cycle. The GEL™ technology serves two separate roles here — a truly exceptional feat of engineering. The heel is held snugly in a plastic cradle, giving the shoe a good transition from foot impact to toe-off.

With its aggressive techno-modernist early-millennium styling, combined with the groundbreaking technology that made it such a pioneer in the first place, the 2019 GEL–KINSEI™ shoe brings back everything we loved about the OG, but for summer 2019.

Over 1,000 cyclists for Repsol Malaysia

More than 1,000 cyclists participated in Repsol Malaysia’s Repsol Fellowship Ride, a closed-circuit cycling event held at Negeri Sembilan on 15 September 2019.

While the start and end point was at the Youth and Sports Complex, Paroi, the 75km circuit went as far as Rantau town. The event was organised in conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebration with the objective of bringing together Malaysians from all ages from all walks of life in the spirit of unity.

Flagging off the Fellowship Ride was Negeri Sembilan State Assembly Speaker YB Dato’ Zulkefly Mohamad bin Omar who said, “A country’s success is not only measured in terms of the economy, but also, the wellbeing of its people. It is encouraging to see the private sector voluntarily organise initiatives to celebrate unity during the Malaysia Day week.” He was accompanied by the Youth and Sports Development Action Committee Chairman YB Tuan Haji Mohamad Taufek bin Abdul Ghani.

“As cycling is becoming more popular amongst Malaysians, we want to leverage this opportunity to encourage a culture of healthy and active living amongst the rakyat,” said Repsol Malaysia Business Unit Director Jorge Milathianakis. “More than that, cycling is also an activity that unites families, friends, and communities where differences are put aside, reflecting the true spirit of Malaysia.”

“Being a company that prioritises safety, we are committed to advocating and raising awareness on this matter for all road users, emphasizing on the most vulnerable – cyclists.”

After being flagged off at 7:45 am, participants pedaled their way to Rantau, passing through Senawang town and Sungai Gadut, before making their way through the hillside road route through Rantau-Siliau, where they were treated to a scenic view of the forest’s greens.

Cyclists Azhar Nizam and Farah Muhamadwho completed the 75-km race in 2 hours 45 minutes

Clocking a solid 2 hours 45 minutes, cyclist Azhar Nizam who completed the 75-km route with his training partner, Farah Muhamad, said that the ride was a satisfying one, albeit the mild haze.

“The last stretch of the race was challenging as the weather got warmer,” said Nizam. “Nonetheless, we pushed ourselves to complete the ride in tandem with each other.”

The Fellowship Ride was more of a community cycling event than a competition. “Cycling is the best sport to meet people and training partners, aside from its health benefits,” said bronze-medalist from the 2019 Asian Cycling Championship, Dr. Norhasmat ‘Kep’ Abdul Aziz, who was also a participant in the Ride. “Riding on the Malaysia Day weekend makes it even more special because we have everyone of different races cycling together as a group.”

Bronze-medalist from the 2019 Asian Cycling Championship, Dr. Norhasmat ‘Kep’ Abdul Aziz

Apart from the cycling event itself, there were food and beverage stalls set up around the complex alongside carnival games booths and play areas for visitors to enjoy. Visitors had the opportunity to experience MotoGP racing virtually through a simulator at the Repsol Malaysia booth, while the children enjoyed themselves in the batik-painting competition, eating free ice cream and cotton candy. 

Sheema and her children were one of the many who enjoyed the family quality time at the carnival. “It is the long weekend and I wanted to take my children to enjoy the outdoors,” she said. “This is also the first time they are standing at the finishing line to cheer the cyclists.”

As an energy company, Repsol Malaysia is honoured to contribute to the government’s vision in energizing and uniting a sporting nation. Akin to the spirit of fellowship rides whereby cyclists of all ages, shapes, and size move together in a united formation, not leaving anyone behind, Repsol Malaysia aspires to celebrate Malaysians unity in diversity as the nation propels in one direction – forward.

PUMA House of Hustle

PUMA House of Hustle was held at Sentul Depot, Kuala Lumpur on 28 – 29 September 2019. The main events were training sessions, 3-on-3 futsal and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments.

 

The training sessions were held three times a day and each had a total duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes. We participated in Session 2 of the first day of PUMA House of Hustle.

They had Animal Flow, Rhythmic Boxing and HIIT for all of the training sessions. We found all of the exercise quite challenging. The movements were a little bit hard to follow but it was fun because we learned new things from Animal Flow and Rhythmic Boxing.

Animal flow is a training that focused largely around ground-based work and it develops mobility as well as power. Animal Flow is inspired by animal movements and focusses on improving our core stability, overall strength and body awareness without any fitness equipment. Dany found it to be quite difficult as he has not been active the past few months.

Next up was Rhythmic Boxing – a 45 minutes workout slated to be the next generation of boxing where each punch and slide is driven by music beats. This, again, exhausted Dany as the intensity was very high and the movement also quite difficult for him. He didn’t manage to finish the session but was quite impressed with some of the participants that managed to finished the second segment and also the fact that they stayed to continue with the last segment.

The last segment of PUMA’s House of Hustle was HIIT or High-Intensity Interval Training. By this time the boys were quite exhausted but they soldiered on to prove to themselves that they can do it, except for Dany. He tried but faltered quite a few times. Maybe they were inspired to continue with the session as the other participants had not quit.

There was an emcee that was present during the breaks in between exercises. He was great and kept interacting with the participants.

Delicious and healthy Jello

The event was also surrounded by many booths like food, beverage, sports accessories. We got a chance to try a refreshing coconut jelly called ‘Jello’ after we were done with the training sessions. There are many toppings that you can choose like cendol, brown sugar, mango and many more.

Then, we went to the warehouse next door to watch the futsal and basketball tournaments, and other games.  The place was filled with the crowd cheering and supporting each other.

They also had a ninja warrior-like obstacle course, basketball shooting, golf simulator and punching bag.

Overall we had a great and pleasant time in participating in the event. They also enjoyed the vibe around the venue that gave out a cool and chill vibe.

 

From left: Shauqi, Ahmad and Dany

Shauqi loves to play sports such as volleyball and badminton. A coffee lover, he invites readers to have coffee with him.

Ahmad is trying to become a professional e-sports player, specifically Mobile Legends. Follow and like his idn: Schen.

Dany is a 20-year-old who looks 15. Follow this normal lad from KL on Instagram: @danyhaiqal

 

 

 

R U Tough Enough Returns to Seek Southeast Asia’s Toughest!

R U Tough Enough is back to issue a clarion call to all Malaysians to prove they are the toughest in Southeast Asia! Bigger and better than before, this annual challenge by KIX HD (Astro Ch 729) is supported by Fisherman’s Friend, with a grand prize of US$15,000 (RM60,000) awaiting the regional winner who will be crowned Southeast Asia’s Toughest 2019!

“This year R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia redefines what strength really means, as physical strength alone is insufficient – a true champion also needs a fierce desire to break through barriers, a winning attitude and loads of determination to carry them through,” said Annie Chan, Executive Director, Affiliate & Advertising Sales, Celestial Tiger Entertainment. “Today, R U Tough Enough issues a challenge to all of Southeast Asia and – for the first time – Hong Kong, for tough individuals to step out of their comfort zone and prove their mettle against the toughest individuals across the region!”

This year, R U Tough Enough also sports a brand-new logo with a badge-like design that reinforces how R U Tough Enough winners are an elite group and worthy of carrying the title like a badge of honour everywhere they go!

Former R U Tough Enough participants have come from all walks of life, from bakers and bankers to teachers and trainers. What set them apart was their willingness to launch themselves way past their comfort zones, bashing through barriers of doubt, fatigue and fear so they could hold their heads high at the Final Showdown.

Mohd Saddam Bin Mohd Pittli, who was crowned Southeast Asia’s Toughest in 2018, had to struggle for every opportunity in his life. Losing his mother at only 11 years of age and with 9 siblings, being a strong individual was a necessity and enlisting in the army only made him stronger. Coming in at first place in the Spartan Race competition in 2016 and 2017 gave him the encouragement to try something new and sign up for R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia in 2018. With the true heart of a champion, Saddam’s long-term goal is to run bootcamps for Malaysians so they can learn how to live healthier lifestyles. Since winning the title last year, he has started buying equipment and helping to train his friends who want to stay fit.

Benny Yeoh overcoming one of the challenges in RU Tough Enough in 2016

For Benny Yeoh, who won in 2016, his personal history also played a huge role in developing his inner strength and resilience. An unhealthy lifestyle resulted in him being overweight with health problems, which was the wake-up call he needed to turn things around. It wasn’t an easy road but he was determined to become a better, heathier and stronger individual and this in turn taught him to believe in himself. Today, he credits his R U Tough Enough experience as the driving force behind his successes in other areas of his life. Yeoh continues to remain tough and will serve as one of the judges in this year’s R U Tough Enough.

Physical ability, mental endurance, and emotional resilience are at the core of an R U Tough Enough champion, and online applications are now open to male and female participants who are ready to take up the R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia 2019 challenge and qualify as one of only four Malaysian finalists! The Final Showdown will see Malaysian finalists competing against the toughest individuals from Hong Kong, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Sign up now to compete for the title of Southeast Asia’s Toughest – R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia 2019 will be accepting applicants from now until September 22 via its official website: www.KIX-TV.com/tough

R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia 2019 is open to all Malaysian residents aged 18 and above. To participate, apply online at www.KIX-TV.com/tough by September 22. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for closed-door auditions and a total of four finalists will be chosen to represent Malaysia against finalists from SEA and Hong Kong in a Final Showdown at Sunway Pyramid on Sunday, November 3.

Since its launch in Malaysia in 2014, R U Tough Enough has expanded to the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Vietnam; this year, R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia 2019 welcomes participants from Hong Kong for the very first time. Its inspiring message that everyone has the potential to develop toughness in different forms has attracted thousands of participants across the region and made a difference in the lives of its many contestants; as a tribute, the inspiring personal stories of R U Tough Enough participants will be captured in an exclusive 30-minute special, to be aired on KIX HD (Astro Ch 729) in January 2020. 

R U Tough Enough Southeast Asia 2019  is presented by Fisherman’s Friend, the strong adult candy with added benefits, and official fitness partner Celebrity Fitness with official platform partner Astro, official venue partner Sunway Pyramid, hotel partner Dorsett Grand Subang and supporting partner Infinix. 

Stay updated on the competition through KIX HD’s social media platforms, including Facebook: facebook.com/KIXAsia, Twitter: @KIXAsia, and Instagram: @KIXAsia.

                                    

Hit up your squad as PUMA presents the House of Hustle

Introducing a unique fitness event, global sports brand PUMA is offering two full days of intense fitness session comprising of 3-on-3 Futsal, 3-on-3 Basketball and a challenging training segment. Themed “House of Hustle”, this performance event is different in that it aims to appeal to everyone from football, basketball lovers to fitness freaks.

In order to test participants’ willpower and limit, three classes have been arranged under the training category – Animal Flow by Babel Fit, challenges participants to put their muscular endurance and strength to the test on different levels; Rhythmic Boxing by TRIBE Boxing, aims to combine boxing, body conditioning, and cardio all in one; High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) by Ministry of Burn, strengthens participants’ determination through a series of muscle building and body strengthening routines. 

Programmed specifically for basketball and futsal enthusiasts, participants can compete in the 3-on-3 basketball or futsal tournament. Both tournaments will consist of a group stage and knockout stages where participating teams will be split into groups of four before the top two placed teams enter into the knockout rounds to fight for the top spot. 

To further add some excitement to these high-spirited matches, winners stand a chance to take home elusive cash vouchers totalling up to RM19K. For the championship title, participants will walk away with RM 5,000 of PUMA cash voucher to be used in any of the PUMA stores nationwide. For first and second runner up, participants will receive RM 3,000 and RM 1,500 PUMA cash vouchers respectively.  

The event hall will be separated into categories consisting of training, basketball, and futsal. Besides these three main categories, there are other activities lined up such as an obstacle challenger course, golf simulator, punching bags, and basketball shooting. Participants can challenge themselves and put their skills sets to the test, thus keeping them entertained throughout the day. 

With a combination of three different curated training categories all under one roof, fitness enthusiasts, celebrities and social media influencers will be joining this event at Sentul Depot, Kuala Lumpur. Upon registration, participants will also be able to receive goodie bags including a PUMA t-shirt and a drawstring bag.

With a plethora of food vendors, participants can indulge in some healthy food and drinks after their workout sessions. Apart from that, there will be a health check booth by Guardian where participants can get their basic health check with a minimum fee. This is to take preventive measures and manage potential health problems should it be necessary.   

“PUMA had a vision to redefine the performance philosophy, and as this event promises participants a fun-filled, high-energy, and challenging experience, it is indeed exciting and truly inspiring to see participants getting pumped up for this event,” stated Tim Tham, PUMA’s Southeast Asia Marketing Manager.

Stay accountable to your fitness goals by signing up in this highly exhilarating sports event. Whether you are seasoned trainer, football player or a basketball fan, this event is made for you. 

Head on to www.puma-hoh.com/my.php now to register for early bird rates as low as RM35 per pax and get ready to hustle!

Iconic and Innovative Babel Opens in KLCC

First of all, let us be clear – Babel is not a gym although you can be forgiven for thinking it is so. The health and wellness club commemorated its grand opening at the iconic KLCC recently with the theme “Carnival in the Jungle”.

Now, before you start thinking “not another stupid idea for a theme” let me explain why this in itself is a stroke of genius. One, Babel KLCC is located smack in the middle of the concrete jungle. Yes, there are parks nearby but nevertheless it’s still right in the middle of Kuala Lumpur’s city centre.

Second, Babel brings nature to you. Honest to goodness when you’re in the gym, walking on that treadmill, that plant you see in front of you is not plastic. Those are real-life plants that are taken care of by Babel’s own botanist. How’s that for the extra shot of oxygen while you work out?

Babel KLCC entrance

Meanwhile, Babel’s shower and locker area could entice you to stay there forever. Aside from the awesome infrared sauna or the shower cubicles kitted out with Good Virtues Co. products, it is simply the dressing area that makes you feel at home. Honestly, if there was a bed installed I would probably never leave. Or maybe I just want to luxuriate my hair with those Dyson hairdryers.

Ok, despite looking ultra expensive and unaffordable, Babel KLCC’s fees are actually surprisingly manageable. This is in consideration of its location, design and the classes offered at the centre.

There are a multitude of classes offered at the centre, beginning at 7am until 9.30pm. Classes offered ranges from HIIT to Animal Flow to Suspension, a body weight exercise. Click here to find out more about their classes.

Founder Tan Boon Yao speaking at the launch

At the launch, Founder of Babel Tan Boon Yao says, “There are three pillars to health: Food, Fitness and Feels, all of which, contribute equally to your experience. That’s what we believe an experience is.”

“When it comes to food, we’ve joined forces through our strategic partnership with one of the best superfoods restaurants, La Juiceria Superfoods, making this the first health and wellness club in the country with its very own, full-fledged in-house restaurant.”

“Fitness speaks of our commitment to holistic physical training through our range of classes and cutting-edge equipment. The classes offered hopes to fill a much needed niche in the market whereby customers have access to a one-stop facility that fulfils exercise, rehabilitation and recovery. Feels speaks for itself; every corner of this space is harmonized to produce an environment that fosters a healthy mind and body,” added Tan.

Tan’s belief is that wellness isn’t merely a single tracked pursuit but instead requires a multi-faceted approach, taking into consideration the various aspects of health.

Through Babel’s myriad of classes and personal training options, clients will be under the tutelage of experienced PTA Certified professional trainers, providing unrivalled training accredited through scientific research adhering to an internationally accepted standard. Furthermore, clients who are interested to pursue a career in personal training are welcomed to enlist in the Babel Training Academy, where they too can achieve PTA Certification through Babel.

For more information on Babel, please visit the club’s official website and information portal at https://www.babel.fit/, or stay tuned to their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/babel.fit/ and Instagram page @babel.fit for other exciting updates and announcements.

Women’s health mobile app, ‘Nyra’ launches in Bahasa Malaysia

Vivant, the digital health technology start-up, today announces the launch of ‘Nyra’ in Bahasa Malaysia to help women of all ages seamlessly track their feminine health, fertility and fitness – allowing them to better manage their wellbeing, schedules and avoid surprises.

Nyra is designed as a one-stop solution for women of all ages juggling multiple health and wellness goals to accurately track their period, fertility, ovulation, as well as physical activity, symptoms and diet. From information entered into the app, Nyra provides personalised health and fertility insights, giving women full control over the entire feminine health journey – from preconception to pregnancy and post-pregnancy. 

In addition, Nyra’s market-leading in-app chat feature allows women to connect directly with a doctor at their fingertips, for private one-to-one conversations on health matters including fertility, contraception, sexual health and everything in between. The app also enables women to keep track of medication and supplement intake through customisable reminders.

Adrit Raha, Chief Executive Officer, Vivant said, “We are seeing a major opportunity to tap into the potential of digital platforms to transform women’s health in Malaysia, as well as the rest of Asia and the Middle East. While women’s health can be a sensitive subject in Malaysia, Nyra aims to empower women to break through existing barriers and take full control of every aspect of their feminine health and wellbeing, informed by accurate and personalised health insights.” 

Nyra is the first product launched by Vivant under its Nyra women’s health brand, which expects to see an expanded range of products in the region across the women’s health spectrum including pregnancy, post-pregnancy care and re-entering the workplace. 

At Vivant we see an incredible opportunity for growth in Malaysia as consumers are increasingly turning to digital channels to manage aspects of their daily lives such as banking and shopping. Health is a traditionally underserved area that is starting to see strong demand. We are excited to bring Nyra and its spectrum of capabilities to this dynamic market as e-health begins to truly take off,” added Vishal Doshi, Director, Malaysia.

Nyra is available on Apple and Google app stores.