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Month: September 2024

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Shape Up Club Buzz

Fitness Workz At HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok Reopens with a Fresh New Look and Feel

The newly revamped gym features cutting-edge equipment and dedicated training zones designed to elevate your workout experience.

As fitness trends continue to evolve, more people are engaging in sports like powerlifting, bodybuilding, and CrossFit. HomeTeamNS keeps pace with these changes by continually updating the equipment and spaces at its Fitness Workz Gyms to ensure they are well-suited for the latest training techniques.

Get Ready to Transform Your Fitness Journey

Fitness Workz at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok recently underwent a significant revamp and reopened in early August 2024. This marks a new chapter for the facility, now boasting a modern and holistic environment that caters to all fitness enthusiasts.

The gym’s 4196.42-square-foot space has been redesigned to include a brand-new functional training area, complete with an artificial turf ground. This area is perfect for high-intensity workouts like sled pushes, battle ropes, and tyre flips. Powerlifters will also appreciate the newly installed dedicated deadlift and power racks.

To enhance the overall atmosphere, the gym’s screed walls have been repainted, giving the space a sleek, modern, and minimalistic appearance. The fresh look is just one aspect of the transformation — there’s a host of new equipment that promises to elevate your workout experience.

Did you know?

Fitness Workz operates in every HomeTeamNS clubhouse — HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok, and HomeTeamNS Khatib.

EXPLORE THE LATEST GEAR

Whether you’re looking to boost your cardio, build strength, or enhance flexibility, Fitness Workz at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok‘s newest additions have something for everyone. Here’s a peek at what’s new:

Assault Bike Classic

This fan-powered air bike delivers a full-body cardio workout that intensifies as you pedal harder. Not just your regular stationary bike, the Assault Bike works both your arms and legs simultaneously, giving you a challenging and effective workout.

Concept2 SkiErg

Perfect for building strength and endurance, the Concept2 SkiErg works your entire body in a low-impact, rhythmic motion. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or new to this type of exercise, this machine offers a versatile workout that’s easy on the joints

TireFlip 180 

Say goodbye to bulky tyres cluttering up the gym! The TireFlip 180 offers all the benefits of traditional tyre flipping in a compact, space-saving design. With adjustable resistance starting at 100 pounds, this equipment is suitable for all fitness levels.

Glute Lift Pro

Intimidated by hip thrusters? The Glute Lift Pro is here to help. This machine offers a safe, comfortable, and effective way to train your glutes, with an ergonomic seat and back pad designed for maximum comfort.

Power Rack with Lifting Platform 

Ideal for heavy lifting, this heavy-duty power rack allows for squats and deadlifts with ease. The integrated platform and storage for weight plates make it convenient to switch between exercises during your workout.

Cable Crossover Machine

Besides cable crossover, this sleek machine provides versatility for a wide range of upper body exercises. With adjustable pulleys and multiple attachment hooks, it allows you to customise your workout to target specific muscle groups.

STEP UP TO THE FITNESS IRONMAN CHALLENGE

Fitness Workz at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok offers more than just state-of-the-art equipment; it’s also home to the annual Fitness Ironman bodybuilding and physique sport competition. This year, the event will be held on 28 September, featuring three exciting categories: Men’s Denim Model, Men’s Classic Physique, and Men’s Physique.

HomeTeamNS members can register at a discounted rate of S$74.12 (non-members pay S$81.75), which includes participation, a T-shirt, two audience tickets, and two weeks of complimentary access to any Fitness Workz gym. Secure your spot by registering before 15 September, and get ready to compete alongside the best!

With upgraded facilities, a modern aesthetic, and new training zones, Fitness Workz at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok is the ultimate destination to bring your workout to the next level. Don’t miss out — visit today and experience the transformation for yourself!

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Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Singapore Buzz

8 Exciting Ways to Celebrate Mid-Autumn with Loved Ones

From lantern walks to mooncake feasts, gather your family and friends and create beautiful memories under the moonlit sky.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, or Mooncake Festival, falls on 17 September this year. It’s a time for reunions, where friends and family of all ages and backgrounds come together to enjoy the festivities. Here are some vibrant activities you can join to celebrate this special occasion:

MARVEL AT CHINATOWN’S MAGICAL LANTERN DISPLAYS

Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information and Second Minister for Home Affairs, leading a lantern procession during Chinatown’s Mid-Autumn Festival celebration in 2023.

From now till 2 October, stroll through Chinatown and enjoy the dazzling lanterns and festive decorations along New Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street, South Bridge Road and Upper Cross Street. This year’s centrepiece is an 8-metre-tall statue showcasing three generations of a family gathering under the moonlight. Afterwards, treat yourself to delectable offerings from a myriad of food stalls and restaurants along Smith Street.

IMMERSE IN PARK CELEBRATIONS

Experience the magic of Mid-Autumn at iconic parks like Gardens by the Bay and Jurong Lake Gardens, where breathtaking decorations and a vibrant lineup of activities await! This year, lantern displays that evoke childhood nostalgia line the picturesque paths of Gardens by the Bay. These include The Shophouse, inspired by Singapore shophouses from the 1840s to 1960s, and the Dragon Playground, which comes alive with performances on select days.  From 4 to 22 September, immerse yourself in the festivities with lantern walks, parent-child lantern-making sessions, Chinese tea art appreciation, enchanting guzheng performances, and more.

Jurong Lake Gardens’ Lights by the Lake 2024 is a 15-day celebration held in conjunction with the President’s Challenge 2024 and the 21st edition of the NParks Concert Series in the Park: Rockestra. Besides beautiful lantern displays, the event is packed with cultural showcases, musical performances, carnival games, and movie screenings. It’s a perfect spot to experience Mid-Autumn’s festivities.

INDULGE IN MOONCAKES

Leading up to the festival, malls across Singapore host food and festive fairs, offering a delectable array of mooncakes and Mid-Autumn treats. Don’t miss Takashimaya’s annual fair, touted as the biggest in Singapore, where you can sample and purchase a wide range of delicious goodies.

EXCLUSIVE MID-AUTUMN PROMOTIONS FOR HOMETEAMNS MEMBERS

LEARN ABOUT CHINESE CULTURE AT SPECIAL EVENTS

Celebrate the rich traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival at the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall before it closes for renovations. Engage in cultural activities like hand fan-making workshops, silkscreen bookmark printing crafts, a parent-child Chinese mythology wooden stick figure painting workshop, a LED Lion Dance performance, and more. You can even dress up in traditional Chinese costumes for a portrait session!

CELEBRATE AT HOMETEAMNS CLUBHOUSES

A stone’s throw away from the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier joins the fun with its Moonlight Magic event. It’s an evening filled with fun activities, including lantern painting, rabbit mooncake making, mooncake, tea and pomelo appreciation, and everyone’s favourite — a lantern walk to the memorial hall, followed by a guided tour.

The Mid-Autumn celebrations extend to other HomeTeamNS clubhouses with exciting activities for everyone. On 14 September from 12pm to 7pm, bask in the festivities at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok. Put on your artistic caps and customise your own beautiful lanterns and enjoy a movie screening of the animated film Over the Moon. Plus, there’s a fun quiz after the movie with prizes to be won! What’s more, purchase traditional mooncakes from Swatow‘s live station and nosh on delectable festive foods as you participate in the activities.

Over at HomeTeamNS Khatib  on 17 September from 5pm to 9pm, make your own DIY lanterns and remember to flash your digital membership card to redeem a mooncake limited to the first 200 HomeTeamNS members only.

Looking for a creative and fun way to join in the festivities with your little ones? Let your little artists unleash their imaginations with Mid-Autumn crafts such as designing paper mooncakes at our T-Play indoor children playgrounds over at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok and Khatib from 14 to 15 September.

CREATE YOUR OWN MOONCAKES

Learn the art of making mooncakes with a DIY kit from Bakestarters or attend a hands-on class at Allspice Institute. Whether you prefer traditional baked mooncakes or modern snow-skin varieties, creating your own is a sweet way to celebrate with family and friends.

JOIN YOUR COMMUNITY’S FESTIVITIES

Island-wide, Residents’ Committees (RCs), Neighbourhood Committees (NCs), and Residents’ Networks (RNs) are organising their own Mid-Autumn festivities. Enjoy performances, lantern processions, art workshops, and buffet meals in your neighbourhood. Check out the onePA platform for an event near you.

HAVE SOME MID-AUTUMN FAMILY FUN

The Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) and the Singapore Chinese Orchestra will present a three-day Mid-Autumn Family FUN festival from 6 to 8 September. Celebrate with all things Mid-Autumn, including lantern walks, moon gazing, children’s theatre, performances, and, of course, mooncakes!

Don’t miss the chance to write your own Mandarin song lyrics in a parent-child workshop conducted by a professional coach; experience a captivating planetarium show by the Science Centre Singapore, and discover how stars guided ancient navigators and how their positions shift with the changing seasons; or witness the mesmerising art of traditional mask-changing and be astounded by the lightning-fast transformations performed live. Some of these are paid activities and HomeTeamNS members enjoy 20% OFF when they purchase their tickets with the SCCC.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Power Rack with Lifting Platform

Ideal for heavy lifting, this heavy-duty power rack allows for squats and deadlifts with ease. The integrated platform and storage for weight plates make it convenient to switch between exercises during your workout.

Cable Crossover Machine

Besides cable crossover, this sleek machine provides versatility for a wide range of upper body exercises. With adjustable pulleys and multiple attachment hooks, it allows you to customise your workout to target specific muscle groups.

Concept2 SkiErg

Perfect for building strength and endurance, the Concept2 SkiErg works your entire body in a low-impact, rhythmic motion. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or new to this type of exercise, this machine offers a versatile workout that’s easy on the joints.

Categories
Food Featured

A taste of Singapore: One foodie’s guide to local delights

SGT2 (NS) Chong Shao Wei (left) is grateful to reconnect over a good meal with his mentors, Hai Teck (right), who taught him tactical skills and values like humility as well as Faiz (middle), who guided him through the challenges of being a ProCom medic.

Hear from SGT2 (NS) Chong Shao Wei, a self-proclaimed adventurous foodie, his passion for Singaporean cuisine and his top local picks.

Like many Singaporeans, Shao Wei lives to eat. However, his approach to discovering the best dishes involves a bit more curiosity and exploration.

As a clinical researcher, the 28-year-old embraces a methodical approach to his culinary adventures. Inspired by food expert Andrew Zimmern’s philosophy, Shao Wei believes that “all food should be treated equally”, and that every dish should be given a second chance, even if the first taste wasn’t convincing.

DIVING INTO SINGAPORE’S CULINARY MELTING POT

Shao Wei approaches Singapore’s vibrant food scene like a researcher, scouring social media for new finds and exploring food blogs like DanielFoodDiary and SethLui.com to gather insights and opinions. “The joy is in reading diverse menus and reviews, and then experiencing the flavours firsthand,” he shares. He also recommends Telegram channels like Level Ground and TasteSoul for the best deals — an endeavour he cheekily calls “typically Singaporean”.

“These platforms help by highlighting newly opened restaurants and hidden gems among family-owned establishments,” he notes. “After all, Singaporeans are masters of word-of-mouth.”

But for Shao Wei, the true treasure lies in connecting with the people behind the dishes. He relishes learning the stories of the eateries and their owners, adding: “These interactions are ones I hold deeply in my heart. What I love most about Singaporean cuisine is its diversity — a rojak where, amid the variety, you can still discern distinct flavours. This creates endless possible combinations, and that excites me.”

SAVOURING SINGAPORE’S UNDERRATED GEMS

Living near the Woodlands Checkpoint gives Shao Wei easy access to some of his favourite local eateries. Two dishes he particularly enjoys are Lai Xing Prawn Noodle and Hong Ji Claypot Herbal Bak Kut Teh, both located at Marsiling Lane.

According to him, the rich prawn noodle broth — combined with yellow noodles, fried shallots and pork lard cracklings — creates a delightful texture and flavour. On a rainy day, the peppery bak kut teh perfectly complements the prawn noodles with its moreish soup and tender meat.

For chicken rice enthusiasts, he recommends Tian Tian Chicken Rice at Clementi. “Their chicken is exceptionally tender, and the rice is fragrant. Add a braised egg and a refreshing ice lemon tea for a euphoric meal,” he says.

One local dish he believes deserves more recognition is bee hoon, specifically the White Bee Hoon at Sembawang. This flavourful meal is elevated when paired with the signature chicken wings. A tip from Shao Wei: “You can enjoy the bee hoon on its own or add the eatery’s signature chili sauce. Each bite is a symphony of flavours, so take your time to savour it.”

Another underrated gem in his book is the nasi lemak at Chong Pang, which he loves for its punchy addition of ikan bilis that enhances the dish’s umami profile.

FOOD AND CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

One of Shao Wei’s fondest food memories from his NSF days is exploring various Indian cuisine such as Black Pepper Multicuisine restaurant with friends. As a medic and trainer at the Singapore Police Force’s Protective Security Command, he recalls Springleaf Prata as a popular spot among his NS kakis for its air-conditioning, halal certification and delicious food.

“It made training in the morning something to look forward to,” he reminisces. “The iced Milo and murtabak hit the spot, and the portions were large enough for two to share. We often shared the murtabak, and the memories of our playful banter during those meals are particularly cherished,” he says.

He also lauded how our vibrant Singapore food scene can unite people across culture and race. “Imagine having friends and family gathered around a table full of diverse dishes. That bliss of discussing flavours and the connections formed through this diversity is what I love about Singaporean cuisine,” he reflects.

QUICK BITES WITH SHAO WEI

Before booking into camp, fuel up on… kaya toast. It’s sweet, delicious, and you can eat it fast. 

The ultimate supper after a long shift is… nasi lemak, because there are so many combinations to try out.

For breakfast on a day off, nothing beats… you tiao. Dunking it in coffee or Milo just makes my day!

When I’m on a break, I enjoy sipping on… iced bandung, because the sweetness from the evaporated milk and syrup lingers on the tongue.

The best food to bond over with NS kakis is… a cold and refreshing chendol at Bukit Timah Hawker Centre.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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