Category Archives: Men’s Health

AFT Features, AFTNews, Beauty & Health, Features Singapore, Fitness, Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

A moment with Will Skinner, CEO of UFIT Singapore

The CEO of UFIT looks so young you may mistake him for an inexperienced person trying to make it in the fitness industry. However, Will Skinner has more experience than you and I combined. This former professional rugby player brings over his years of rugby experience into the commercial aspect of fitness. Of this, he says “I feel like I never made a switch.”

“Yes, I was in the office a little more, but I was still involved with something I love, and so always want to do my best and expect the best from others,” he added.

He says that there is a lot that can be learned from sports and business, and he doesn’t think his approach to business is any different from during his sports days. “I’m sure all the guys I work with get fed up with me using sporting analogies day-to-day – whether it be recruiting and growing a team or academy like Alex Ferguson or developing our own culture like the All Blacks – sport-to-business synergies and comparisons are endless. If it makes me think I’m managing Manchester United or the All Blacks then I’m happy, too.”

Physical Exercise

The main gym at UFIT Club Street

As for physical exercise, he says “Physical exercise is highly important as part of a wider approach to general health, but it’s also equally important to get the balance right. We encourage everybody to also look at their nutritional journey and that is why we have a team of nutritionists on-hand at every (UFIT) Hub to get you on track. Whether you need advice on weight loss, clinical nutrition or sports nutrition, this type of holistic view of looking at fitness will enable you to ignite that fire and take you to the next level.

However, if you are new or hesitant to begin exercising, don’t despair. Will says that UFIT understands your struggles. All you have to do is to take the first step to go to UFIT and they will help you. “We have the ability and skill to support and guide you and to make that journey fun, so that you want to stick to it and keep coming back for more,” he says.

It may sound dubious to some but don’t let that stop you from getting healthier and fitter as UFIT is systematic and starts from the very basic.

The Approach

Step into UFIT Club Street Hub to begin your transformation journey

UFIT’s approach is not strictly focused on fitness alone but on one’s overall health. They believe that everyone is unique and therefore requires a unique approach accordingly to their needs. It is safe to say that UFIT is not your typical one-size-fits-all gym, but rather one that offers a full end-to-end service.

“Everybody starts with a health consultation with the Hub Manager. This is an in-depth analysis of their body composition and identifies various health metrics to highlight any imbalances in their body and discrepancies in lifestyle. With this data, we are able to suggest an appropriate fitness and wellness plan as we have the best information to plan this person’s journey. Our holistic approach allows us to determine whether we need to take them back to a position of health and/or fitness or to take them to that next level if they are an elite athlete and have the ability to dedicate themselves to a sports performance lifestyle.

Our clients also undertake mobility tests at their first session with a trainer or therapist and this helps to identify imbalances that might impede their progress or that we have to be mindful of.

Everything we do is bespoke and enables us to test and track a person’s progress whatever stage of the journey they are at.”

Injuries

Now, if you have had prior injuries UFIT would be able to assist you too and it is something that Will Skinner knows a lot about as it was a neck injury that put him into early retirement from professional rugby.

“Rehabilitation and recovery have always been a part of our services. Our trainers are highly qualified and take this approach very seriously with regards to ensuring everybody performs exercises correctly, takes time to recover and gets the right level of professional support when needed. We opened our first dedicated Physiotherapy Clinic at Raffles Quay in 2016, went on to open one-north UFIT Clinic in 2017, and Orchard UFIT Clinic in 2018. This allowed us to build a team of the absolute best Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Sports Massage, Pilates and Rehab specialists in Singapore, on hand at all times to help recharge our clients.

The three new Hub destinations are also carefully structured so that Physio and Rehab services are fully integrated into our offering, with Club Street having nine dedicated treatment rooms within the same building as our fitness studios. Therapists and Trainers share patient notes and can easily refer clients back and forth between teams, using our bespoke UFIT Online Coaching Platform, for the best care they can provide,” says Will.

The male changing room at UFIT Club Street

Founded in 2011, UFIT was set up to deliver a higher level of personal training than what was available in Singapore at the time. Starting with one gym at Amoy Street, it quickly expanded to become the country’s largest independently owned fitness community. The business is multi-award winning and offers Personal Training, indoor and outdoor Group Training, Physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation related services, and Nutrition alongside its other businesses, Youth Academy, Retreats, Education and Corporate Performance.

Recently, the fitness centre celebrated a decade by opening its new integrated Hub at Club Street, Singapore.

AFTNews, Beauty & Health, Men's Health, Mental Health, Wellness, Women's Health

A Solution for Stress

In the wake of World Mental Health Day, on 10 October 2019, the global event will have many of us reflecting on the status of our own emotional wellbeing. As our lives become increasingly hectic, and the pressures of modern life often seem overwhelming, it’s no surprise that the levels of stress, anxiety and depression are skyrocketing. In fact, mixed anxiety and depression is now the most common mental disorder in Britain* and the World Health Organization (WHO) has cited that “if we don’t act urgently, by 2030 depression will be the leading illness globally.” 

Whilst counseling, CBT, talking therapies and of course drug interventions play an important role in helping to alleviate anxiety and depression, often these treatments simply tackle or control the symptoms of poor mental health. For many, treating the cause of these conditions is vital and that’s where the ancient practice of Ayurveda could provide a helping hand in restoring your wellbeing. 

CGH Earth Wellness, the brand behind a collection of leading luxury Ayurvedic hospitals in beautiful Kerala, India believes that the curative approach of Ayurveda could offer a solution when it comes to tackling the cause of modern-day stressors that significantly impact our mental health. 

There are three body constitution within the Ayurvedic Principles: Vata, Pitta and Kapha

In the Ayurvedic principles, the body constitution or bio-energies are classified as below, the disturbance in these results in peculiar symptoms. Poor mental wellbeing comes in three forms depending on the underlying cause of an imbalance in one or more bio-energies, therefore the treatment course is unique to each individual: 

  • Vata – stemming from the colon, vata-type is categorized by feelings of fear, anxiety, nervousness and insomnia 
  • Pitta – arising from the intestine, pitta-type is more dangerous and is associated with feelings of anger, fear of failure or losing control. This format is also vulnerable to seasonal-affective disorder 
  • Kapha – coming from the stomach and associated with a feeling of heaviness, drowsiness, weight gain and a general sluggishness. 

In all three cases, these enter the general circulation and lodge in the nervous system, interfering with its functioning. 

To counterbalance this impaired function, CGH Earth Wellness recommend Manashanthi Chikitsa – a treatment that literally means mental peace and seeks to tackle stress management with a view to relieve the ill-effects that come from the burden of mental strain, insomnia, lack of concentration, fatigue, and headaches. 

The treatment course for Manashanti chikitsa follows the 3 stages: Poorvakarma – preparatory phase, Shodana – cleansing or eliminating phase and finally, Samana which is the corrective and rejuvenation phase. 

  1. Poorvakarma 

During the first stage, the body is prepared for removing toxins through Snehanam (internal and external oleation), followed by Swedanam (therapeutic sweating)

2. Shodana 

Once the body is prepared, the doctor will determine the cleansing or panchakrma treatment based on each individual’s body constitution and the root cause of their medical condition. These two stages of treatment will ensure that the imbalances in the doshas (body constitution) are stabilized

3. Samana 

The third and final stage of treatment where the body is slowly brought out of the intense cleansing and elimination stage by giving corrective medicines and moderate therapeutic treatments, appropriate diet and yoga asanas to correct and rejuvenate the body 

Every treatment at CGH Earth Wellness is personalized

Every treatment at CGH Earth is adapted and personalized to adopt a holistic healing approach tailored to each individual. According to Ayurvedic principles, treating conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression requires intervention that considers the crucial totality of our overall well- being. 

Across its various retreats, CGH Earth offers the peace and quiet you need to reset your mental wellbeing and thrive, whether you choose to revitalize your health in Kerala, the home of Ayurveda, within the stunning 200-year-old palace setting of Kalari Kovilakom, alongside the gentle caress of the Paravur backwaters at Kalari Rasayana or beside the beach waves at SwaSwara’s villas in Gokarna, near Goa. No matter which destination you choose, you can enjoy uninterrupted rest in the abode that resonates best with your inner voice.

AFT Features, AFTNews, Beauty & Health, Men's Health, Travel & Wellness, Wellness, Women's Health

Fight Obesity At Its Core with CGH Earth Wellness

As the pace of the modern lifestyle continues to pick up speed, most people rely on making unhealthier lifestyle and dietary choices as a way to destress. Unfortunately, this has witnessed detrimental consequences on the health of the global population. According to estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO), over 650 million adults above the age of 18 were obese in 2016. In light of World Obesity Day happening on 11 October, join CGH Earth Wellness on a journey back to the simplicity and purity of ancient Indian lifestyles to fight weight management issues and improve overall well-being. 

Holistic Healing

Just as the onset of obesity is triggered by the accumulation of numerous undesirable lifestyle habits, the success of its treatment stems from making strategic changes to various aspects of one’s lifestyle. At CGH Earth Wellness, ancient Indian practices provide the foundation to undergo effective weight loss by heightening mental, physical and spiritual well-being. 

CGH Earth Wellness adopts a holistic healing approach tailored to each individual

With a plethora of treatment possibilities available to combat obesity, CGH Earth Wellness adopts a holistic healing approach tailored to each individual. According to Ayurvedic principles, treating conditions such as obesity requires intervention that considers the crucial totality of our overall well-being. At NABH-accredited Kalari Kovilakom and Kalari Rasayana, consult certified Vaidyas (Sanskrit word meaning “physician”) for an extensive examination of your body to understand your Doshas, or body constitution. Dr. Jouhar, Vaidya at Kalari Kovilakom, shares, “The three Doshas – Vatha, Pitha and Kapha are of equal importance in the aetiology of obesity. The first step in addressing obesity is hence to balance the Doshas. Dosha imbalance stems from the accumulation of toxins in the body and can be reversed once such impurities are removed from the body’s systems.” 

Through a systematic programme that takes place over 14 to 28 days, manage obesity with treatments such as Udwarthanam – a massage designed to remove adipose fat and Vasthies – a medicated enema to improve metabolism. Such processes eliminate excess cellulite deposits and utilise fats effectively, helping to purify the body and prevent diseases for better wellness. 

CGH Earth’s Ayurveda Meal Preparation

Across all CGH Earth wellness centres, a salubrious food philosophy permeates the gastronomic experience delivered to guests. Using fresh, ingredients and produce from local village farmers engaging in good agricultural practices, meal preparation focuses on helping each individual attain a healthy weight as prescribed by the doctors based on the reason behind their weight gain. The culinary team works in tandem with the healing ethos, remaining fiercely dedicated to nourishing the individual’s body and soul with needed goodness and vitality. 

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Testament to the adage, the school of Ayurveda speaks of establishing a deep connection with the self to be better attuned to body signals and rebalance the Doshas to nip obesity in the bud. 

Get in touch with your inner self at SwaSwara, a sanctuary to nurture your Prakruti, the innermost nature of an individual. Located on the serene Om Beach in Gokarana, SwaSwara believes that the combination of yoga and meditation strengthens the body while embracing the inner self, allows the body and mind to converge in a harmonious equilibrium for a deep understanding of the self. 

At Prakriti Shakti, a clinic of natural living or naturopathy, obesity treatments are about both eliminating the root cause and engaging in preventive cure. By integrating the five elements into healing in the form of energy medicine, art therapy, yoga and meditation and more, the doctors in naturopathy healing work on the ‘doctor is the teacher’ philosophy – helping you awaken the innate healing force to repair and rejuvenate your mind and body. For lasting results, guests are advised to incorporate the prescribed personal schedule into their daily lives, one that involves yoga, dietary recommendations and lifestyle changes curated based on each individual’s mental and physical health. 

Rest and Recharge

Dining space at CGH Earth Kovilakom

Beyond taking a holistic approach towards the treatment and prevention of obesity, getting ample rest remains the key to slowing down the growth of rising obesity rates worldwide. With consistent sleep cycles lasting between seven to nine hours each night, the human body is placed under the perfect conditions to restore one’s mental and physical health. 

CGH Earth Wellness firmly believes that the quality of rest is dependent on one’s environment. Across its various retreats, CGH Earth offers the peace and quiet you deserve in your escapade from the hustle of urban living. Be it the gentle caress of the Paravur backwaters at Kalari Rasayana, the pure and unpolluted hills of Panchalimedu that house Prakriti Shakti 2,500 feet above sea-level, or the privacy within the walls of SwaSwara’s villas, enjoy uninterrupted rest in the abode that resonates best with your inner voice. 

AFT Features, AFTNews, Fitness, Men's Health, Women's Health

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.

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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

 

 

 

AFT Features, AFTNews, Features Singapore, Men's Health, Women's Health

THE UFIT WAY: UFIT Health and Fitness Celebrates A Decade with New Rebrand, Digital Transformation and UFIT Hubs

UFIT Health and Fitness (UFIT), Singapore’s largest independently owned fitness community, celebrates a decade of success with a recommitment to their core beliefs, the consolidation of the outlets into three integrated health and fitness hubs, and UFIT’s ongoing digital transformation. This signifies UFIT’s growth and focus as they move towards providing a higher- quality holistic service for a personalised health experience. 

UFIT’s purpose is to ignite and strengthen the greatness in everyone, and ultimately, to celebrate the journey with each individual. Every member will receive a health consultation to mark a starting point and set goals. After which, clients will be prescribed the best course for each individual – be it a personal trainer, physio, group classes, a personal nutrition plan or a combination of all these services to suit. 

Will Skinner, CEO of UFIT

Will Skinner, CEO at UFIT, says, “After nearly a decade in Singapore, UFIT is at a crossroads where we take stock of where we are and what we need to do to move forward into the new era. Whether it be our clients or our staff, we are creating the very best environment for all those that step through the doors when it comes to achieving results. Our redefined vision and purpose statements are what has led us to make these changes, and these will continue to be the cornerstones of every decision we make going forward.” 

New Hubs 

Committed to offering a high quality, holistic, integrated service, UFIT will be consolidating into integrated Hubs with the first-ever UFIT Hub at 21 Club Street. The integrated Hub will be a one-stop destination for Health and Fitness and will unite UFIT’s core offerings of Personal Training, Group Exercise, Physiotherapy and Nutrition under one roof. Alongside these offerings, the Hubs will also provide clients with access to Sports Medicine, health testing and an indoor-open floor studio. 

Enhancing the entire end to end fitness journey, the Club Street Hub will also see the opening of Burn, a restaurant with a carefully curated food and beverage menu. Burn will feature a wood-fired oven for grilled meats and pizza, salads that will be chargeable by weight, and kombucha on tap. 

UFIT Club Street lobby artistic impression

The Club Street outlet will be the first of three Hubs that UFIT operates. This destination will see the merging of UFIT’s iconic Amoy Street location, the Clinic at Raffles Quay, and the personal training arm of UFIT’s Tanjong Pagar site. 

Two further Hubs have been created at existing sites at Orchard, linking up UFIT Orchard and UFIT Clinic Orchard, and in the West with UFIT One-North and UFIT Clinic One-North. 

UFIT’s Digital Transformation 

With the integrated Hubs, UFIT will be optimised for data collection to better aid members’ fitness journeys. UFIT will have a bespoke Online Coaching platform that will enable UFIT trainers and professionals to better guide and influence clients on their fitness journey, as well as tools such as full-body scanners and health and performance screenings. Using the data collected, trainers will be able to advise clients better, giving them more individual insights on their clients, and allowing them to better tailor the offerings. 

Furthermore, UFIT will begin offering a credit-based system on their app, enabling clients to purchase credits directly via the app and redeemed across any classes in the Group Training portfolio, including outdoor Bootcamps and Indoor classes at the Club Street studio. 

“As we move to integrate our services under one roof, we want to showcase the best that UFIT has to offer and help create the right environment for our team to ‘Ignite their client’s Greatness!’”, said Dean Ahmad, COO and Co-Founder of UFIT. 

UFIT was founded in 2011 in Singapore with one personal training gym on Amoy Street, and quickly expanded to become the country’s largest independently owned fitness community. The business is multi-award winning and offers Personal Training, indoor and outdoor Group Training, Physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation related services, and Nutrition alongside its other businesses, Youth Academy, Retreats, Education and Corporate Performance. 

AFTNews, Events, Fitness, Men's Health

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.

                                    

AFTNews, Fitness, Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

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!

AFTNews, Fitness, Fitness at Work, Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

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.

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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.

AFT Features, Diet & Nutrition, Features Singapore, Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

Vitafoods Asia Conference to present top 5 APAC nutraceutical trends

Delegates to the upcoming Vitafoods Asia Conference in Singapore, 25-26 September 2019, will have the opportunity to dive deep into the latest regional trends in the Asian nutraceutical industry. Five clearly focused and tailored content platforms including Personalised nutrition, Nutricosmetics, Digestive health, Mental wellbeing and Sports and fitness nutrition will be presented in an exceptional programme that is perfectly positioned between science and industry. Led by industry experts across two days, discussions will cover current nutraceuticals business challenges, opportunities and market innovation in these core functional areas.

“This year, we are thrilled to present the Vitafoods Asia Conference, which will give delegates the opportunity to learn from, and network with, leading nutraceutical, supplement and functional food industry experts,” said Chris Lee, Managing Director, GHNN Europe at Informa Markets, the organiser of Vitafoods Asia. “We are also particularly excited to bring you sports and fitness nutrition presentations during Vitafoods Asia 2019. The Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest growing sports nutrition region and the presentation will allow participants to learn about the latest ingredient research as well as opportunities to develop new products in the space.”

Delegates can book their pass at www.vitafoodsasia.com/conference

Conference speaker, Dr Stephen Burns, Associate Professor, Physical Education & Sports Science, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, will discuss evidence that supports the use of ketogenic diets for training and performance in athletes, in consideration of the potential downsides for performance and health.

Another conference speaker, Nabil Bosco, Healthy ageing team leader, Retd. National Institute of Nutrition, Nestle Research (Singapore), will outline a holistic view of the digestive health market, mechanisms of action and fermented products to reassess the benefits of different ingredients aimed at a healthier gut. He will also discuss the role of food and nutrient synergy for digestive health and highlight any new research and market opportunities.

The Vitafoods Asia Conference 2019 sessions will last 2 – 3 hours, allowing participants to flexibly juggle networking, business meetings and educational content.

The full line-up of keynote speakers at this year’s conference include:

  • Chin-Kun Wang, President, International Society for Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Taiwan)
  • Dr Celine Klotz, Clinical Trial Director, Japanese Society of Antiaging Nutrition (Japan)
  • Dr Madhavan Nair, Scientist, Retd. National Institute of Nutrition, Vice-President Nutrition Society of India (India)
  • Dr Lin Jing, Researcher, Food Science and Technology Programme, National University of Singapore (Singapore)
  • Michelle Teodoro, Food Science and Nutrition Analyst, Mintel (Singapore)
  • David Foreman, President, Herbal Pharmacist Media (US)

The Vitafoods Asia Conference 2019, which runs alongside the Vitafoods Asia Exhibition, is structured to incorporate the latest research as well as a market overview and market innovation. Each session will last two-three hours, enabling participants to flexibly juggle networking, business meetings and educational content.

 

Register for Vitafoods Asia

The Vitafoods Asia Exhibition and Conference is where the nutraceutical industry comes together to find solutions, share knowledge and create business opportunities. Discover high quality products, ingredients and services, learn about the latest trends and network with 350+ global suppliers from 60+ countries across the global nutraceutical supply chain.

To register for the Exhibition or the Conference, please visit www.vitafoodsasia.com

Vitafoods Asia is pleased to announce that KSM-66 Ashwagandha is confirmed as the headline sponsor for Vitafoods Asia 2019.

Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

The Silent Enemy: Fight Joint Injuries Together

Kordel’s has been the main sponsor for Arthritis Foundation Malaysia (AFM) for 11 years running and they have recently collaborated with local sports associations, both professional and amateur athletes as well as Sports Medicine Specialist at University of Malaya Medical Centre, Dr. Muhammad Rahmani Jaffar to raise awareness on the threats of silent joint injuries and how to reduce the risks and take preventive measures. 

The purpose of this collaboration is to educate the public on the rising epidemic of arthritis, and the types of joint nutrition they could take early on before it seriously impacts a person’s health and lifestyle. 

This partnership came shortly after the appointment of Dr. Benjamin Cheah as the new President of the new Arthritis Foundation Malaysia for the period of 2019 till 2021. With over 23 years of experience in the medical field, he is also a Consultant Physician and Rheumatologist in Pantai Hospital and Consultant Rheumatologist in Parkcity Medical Centre and IMU Healthcare. 

According to Dr. Benjamin, although joint ailments can affect everyone from every walk of life, it is not clear exactly what causes osteoarthritis as age, weight (obesity factor), past injuries, family history as well as bone deformities are all part contributory to the onset of osteoarthritis. 

While it is commonly associated with the elderly, athletes and younger adults can also be afflicted with this degenerative disease. When osteoarthritis strikes, the cushioning material (cartilage) that covers the ends of the bones breaks down. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, crunching or grating sounds (when the joint is flexed), swelling and loss of flexibility. When cartilage wears away completely, the bones rub against each other, which can be even more painful and debilitating. 

 

Research has suggested that athletes and sports professionals are more prone to osteoarthritis than the general population. “Athletes constantly push their bodies to the limit, therefore serious wear and tear is bound to occur,” continues Dr. Benjamin. 

“In my younger days, I injured both my knees while doing sports and I’ve endured pain ever since. We shouldn’t wait too long to take action as we can prevent further damage with the right nutrition and practice,” shares Mike Mahen, Mr World Champion 2016 -2018. 

“Many patients as young as in their 20s to 40s suffer from painful arthritic conditions. Education and awareness on how to recognise the symptoms are as important as taking preventive steps,” weighs in Dr. Muhammad Rahmani. 

Backed by the latest research on nutritional healing and disease prevention, Kordel’s has introduced Eggshell Membrane plus Boswellia in their Joint Care range. It is formulated with a blend of hydrolysed water-soluble eggshell membrane, and added with Boswellia an extract which contains boswellic acids. This daily joint nutrition supplement has a Triple Actions Formula that can help to (1) repairs and protects Tendon and Ligament, (2) repairs and protects cartilage and joints, and (3) anti-inflammation thus helping in joints recovery early at the early stage. 

“Should anyone sense any discomfort in moving or stretching, it could be a symptom of early osteoarthritis, especially those who are above the age of 30 or those who does a lot of strenuous activities. Prevention is always better than cure,” mentions Mr. Zid, brand manager for Kordel’s. 

Kordel’s Eggshell Membrane plus Boswellia contains 2 unique patented ingredients which are the patented Biovaflex from eggshell membrane that provide 6 bioactives ingredients to nourish and regenerate joints, cartilage, tendons and ligaments, while the patented Boswellin is an extract from the Boswellia plant that acts as a natural analgesic to stop inflammation fast and effective without side effects. 

As part of their corporate social responsibility efforts, Kordel’s will be having their annual Family Charity Walk on the 8th September at Padang Merbok, Jalan Parlimen in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This 7km walkathon is a charity drive to increase public awareness on joint health and raise funds for Arthritis Foundation Malaysia. 

For more information, please check out at Facebook “2019 Kordel’s Family Charity Walk”.