5 inspiring ways to get moving in 2023
From working with experts at UFIT to taking up a new sport, trying something new might just be path to releasing those all-important endorphins
Text: The Soothe Editorial
After the festive season, getting back into an exercise routine may require a little more motivation. There are multiple benefits to exercise, not just the physical benefits of losing a few pounds after over-indulgence but, more importantly, the mental health benefits. Exercise has been proven to reduce stress, depression and anxiety primarily due to all the serotonin and endorphins that are released in the bloodstream. It’s a no-brainer, right?
But if you’re stuck in a rut and need re-inspiring to get your exercise mojo back, here are our top ways to get your groove on.
Personal training at UFIT
1. Hire a team of experts
There’s no better way to reach your health and exercise goals than hiring a health coach to spur you on. At UFIT, Singapore’s largest health, fitness and sports community, there are no pre-set programmes and no cookie-cutter templates. What we love the most is that they offer a holistic and integrated approach to health and fitness whereby as part of your personal training program, you can interchange your sessions for nutrition support, physiotherapy, health screening, and reformer Pilates – all for no extra cost. How good is that? Their unique, data-focused approach means you will be equipped with all the tools and support you need to get results and achieve your goals in a healthy, sustainable way. And guess what? They are currently running a sale until the end of January, so snap it up whilst you can. They are also offering a free health consultation at any of their hub locations in CBD - Club Street, City Hall, Orchard or One-North. Click here for the low down.
2. Try a new group class and bring a friend
Quite often, it’s about finding the exercise that’s right for you, that you actually have fun doing — yes exercise is not all about no pain, no gain — it can be wholly enjoyable too, and even more so if you bring a friend. UFIT also offer a wide variety of indoor and outdoor classes in multiple locations around Singapore, including Strength, Cardio, Power and Mobility, plus Boxing, Tennis, HIIT, Reformer Pilates and Yoga. Their 10-Day Intro Pass gives you unlimited access for 10 days so you can find out what’s your thang and it's only $49. Bargain!
3. Hike in nature
Hiking is always an excellent complement to gym workouts, especially on the weekend, and it’s a well-known fact that nature is grounding and extremely good for our mental health, as well as reaping the benefits of physical exercise. If you didn’t discover many of Singapore National Parks during the lockdown, now is the time. It’s also a great way to have a booze-free catch-up with friends instead of hitting the bars if you’re trying to stay dry this month. Aside from MacRitchie and Botanics, check out some of the lesser-known paths for peace and quiet.
Tennis Classes at UFIT
4. Take up a new sport
There’s nothing better than a bit of competition and camaraderie to get your heart racing and forget you are even exercising in the first place. From tennis classes at UFIT, and the latest kid on the block Pickleball; to one of Singapore’s top golf courses, the tiny red dot has a surprising amount of sports clubs and activities to get involved in.
5. On your bike
Another way to complement your weekly indoor workouts and arguably the best way to explore our own backyard to get your dose of low impact aerobic exercise is by bike. Various studies have also shown that cycling results in a host of benefits including boosting your mood, weight management and improvement in balance and posture. And even better, it’s free once you’ve got your hands on a set of two-wheels! Check out our list of biking routes to re-inspire your next pedal venture.