Month: June 2024

Recently, there’s been a lot of buzz around mental health. Especially in Singapore. What better way to care for your health in Singapore than to add in a fun and flexible element, right? Enter Yoga – an increasingly popular activity that’s a perfect blend of physical fitness, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. For beginners, finding the right yoga studio can make a significant difference in their practice and overall experience. So, let’s explore the top five beginner yoga studios in Singapore, renowned for their welcoming environments, skilled instructors, and comprehensive class offerings to kick-start your yoga journey.

1. Yoga Movement

Known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, Yoga Movement, is a favorite among beginners. This studio offers a variety of beginner-friendly classes that cater to different schedules and preferences.

The instructors at Yoga Movement are highly skilled and ensure that each class is accessible, focusing on foundational poses and techniques. Their approach emphasizes building strength, flexibility, and mindfulness, making it an excellent starting point for anyone new to yoga. Whether you’re looking for an energizing flow or a calming restorative session, Yoga Movement provides a welcoming community and a solid introduction to yoga.

Address: Multiple locations across Singapore
Average Cost: S$49 for two starter classes or S$299++ for a 10-class pack
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7am – 9pm

2. Pure Yoga

Bougie it up with Pure Yoga — standing out with its luxurious facilities and wide range of classes tailored for all levels, including beginners. The studio provides provides top-notch amenities and experienced instructors who guide students through the basics of yoga in a structured and engaging manner.

Pure Yoga offers a range of classes suitable for all levels, including beginners. The studio focuses on offering a strong foundation through classes that emphasize proper alignment, breathing techniques, and building a solid practice. Experienced instructors guide students through the basics of yoga in a structured and engaging way. This studio offers a more polished environment and higher-end amenities, making it a great option for those looking for a more luxurious experience while still catering to beginners.

Address: Multiple locations across Singapore
Average Cost: From S$155 to S$325/month
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 6am – 10pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8am – 8pm

3. Lab Studios

Yoga Lab by Lab Studios offers a welcoming space for beginners to explore yoga at their own pace. Yoga Lab focuses on creating a supportive environment for new practitioners.

Their beginner classes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with instructors who are passionate about yoga and committed to helping students develop a sustainable practice. Their beginner classes are engaging and educational, focusing on foundational poses, breathwork, and overall body awareness. One of the key elements of Yoga Lab’s approach is community, and their space encourages connection between students. If you’re new to yoga and want to be part of a community that supports growth and learning, Yoga Lab might be your perfect fit.

Address: Multiple locations across Singapore
Average Cost: S$45++ for a yoga trial pack (3 sessions) or S$320++ for a regular 10 credits pack
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7am – 9pm

4. Hom Yoga

Hot yoga anyone? Hom Yoga is known for its vibrant and modern studios, providing a serene atmosphere for beginners to immerse themselves in yoga. They also offer a range of beginner-friendly classes that focus on the fundamentals of yoga. Hom Yoga is also home to a good hot yoga session – nothing like getting drenched in a studio, right?

The instructors at Hom Yoga are dedicated to ensuring new students feel comfortable and supported throughout their practice. The studio offers a range of beginner-friendly classes, including gentle yoga sessions and restorative practices that focus on the fundamentals. With an emphasis on mindfulness and relaxation, Hom Yoga is perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet energizing space to start their yoga journey.

Address: Multiple locations across Singapore
Average Cost: S$49 for introductory trial
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 6am – 10pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8am – 8pm

5. The Yoga Mandala

The Yoga Mandala is a boutique yoga studio that offers personalized attention and a nurturing environment for beginners. This studio provides intimate class sizes, allowing instructors to give individual guidance and support.

Here, they offer beginner classes that focus on building strength, flexibility, and mindfulness, ensuring a holistic approach to yoga. The studio’s nurturing environment emphasizes both physical and mental growth, making it a great place for beginners to develop their practice. With a strong focus on community, The Yoga Mandala encourages a deeper connection to oneself and others, creating a sense of belonging and support.

Address: 134B Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068600
Average Cost: S$60 for 4 sessions
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 11am – 3pm, 7pm – 9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 12pm

Final Thoughts

Starting your yoga journey in Singapore is made easier with these top beginner-friendly studios. Whether you’re looking for a supportive community, luxurious facilities, or personalized attention, these studios offer something for everyone. Remember, regular practice and dedication are key to reaping the benefits of yoga.

Incorporating yoga into your daily routine can help you reduce stress, improve flexibility, and develop mental clarity. Whether you’re looking for an energizing workout or a peaceful practice to unwind, Singapore’s yoga studios cater to all needs. So, take the first step today, and embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth through yoga.

Do you workout alone or with a group of friends? Either way, group fitness classes have surged in popularity in Singapore – offering a dynamic and motivating environment for achieving health and wellness goals. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a beginner looking to get in shape, Singapore boasts a variety of group fitness classes that cater to different preferences and fitness levels. Ready to get your sweat on? Here’s a look at some of the best and most popular group fitness classes in Singapore!

1. F45 Training

F45 Training – a global sensation – is widely popular in Singapore. There’s a studio conveniently located in every neighborhood here. This high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program combines elements of functional training, cardio, and strength workouts. As seen in its name, each session is 45-minute and is designed to burn maximum calories and improve overall fitness. The group setting and circuit-based exercises keep participants motivated and engaged. Perfect for high energy individuals! F45’s innovative workouts are ideal for those looking to boost their fitness levels in a supportive and energetic environment.

Besides its reputation for delivering results, F45 offers a diverse range of functional training exercises that keep things interesting and challenging. Many F45 fans enjoy the motivation that comes from working out alongside others and the sense of community fostered in each session.

2. Zumba

Another household name is Zumba classes. Offering a fun and energetic way to get fit, Zumba incorporates dancing to Latin, Bollywood, and all kinds of international music into its classes. These classes are perfect for those who enjoy a lively and social workout atmosphere. Zumba essentially combines cardio, muscle conditioning, balance, and flexibility in a high-energy dance format. It’s a brilliant option for anyone looking to burn calories and have fun at the same time. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a high-energy workout without the repetitive feel of a traditional gym session. Plus, Zumba can burn hundreds of calories per hour, making it an effective and fun way to stay fit.

Zumba’s vibrant dance-based workouts are available at various gyms and community centers around Singapore, making it accessible to many. Its rhythmic format, combined with the social element, attracts a wide range of fitness enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned gym-goers.

3. Yoga

If you’re into the zen lifestyle, yoga remains a favorite amongst many. Despite being a low-intensity activity, yoga offers numerous benefits like increased flexibility, improved strength, and reduces stress. Group yoga classes cater to different levels and include various styles such as Hatha, Vinyasa, and Hot Yoga. The serene environment and expert guidance in these classes make them an excellent choice for both physical and mental well-being.

Singapore’s fast-paced lifestyle makes yoga an ideal way to balance the demands of daily life. Many enjoy the meditative aspect of yoga, which helps reduce stress and improves mental clarity. Studios throughout the island provide a range of options, so individuals can find the style that best suits their needs.

4. CrossFit

CrossFit is known for its intense and varied workouts that challenge participants to push their limits. These group classes focus on high-intensity functional movements that include weightlifting, cardio, and bodyweight exercises. Do take note, CrossFit classes are ideal for those who thrive in a competitive environment and enjoy a mix of different workouts.

It is known for its intense and varied workouts that challenge participants to push their limits. These group classes focus on high-intensity functional movements that include weightlifting, cardio, and body weight exercises. CrossFit classes are ideal for those who thrive in a competitive environment and enjoy a mix of different workouts.

5. Spinning

Spinning (also known as indoor cycling) classes provide a high-energy, low-impact workout that’s perfect for burning calories and improving cardiovascular health. These classes are set to energetic music where instructors will guide participants through various cycling routines, including sprints and climbs. Spinning is also suitable for all fitness levels and offers a great way to build endurance and strength.

The class’ music-driven format is fun, and many appreciate that it’s a low-impact workout. Singapore has several high-quality spinning studios, such as CruCycle and Absolute Cycle, where you can enjoy group sessions that cater to riders of all levels.

6. BodyPump

BodyPump is a full-body, barbell-based workout that uses light to moderate weights with high repetitions. This class, offered at fitness centers such as Fitness First and Les Mills, is designed to build lean muscle mass, improve endurance, and enhance body tone. The sessions focus on different muscle groups, making it a balanced workout that targets arms, legs, and core while also providing cardio benefits.

These classes are popular because they provide both strength and endurance training in one session. This makes it ideal for busy individuals who want a complete workout without having to split their time between cardio and weightlifting.

7. Kickboxing

Kickboxing combines martial arts techniques with high-energy cardio, making it a powerful workout for both the body and mind. Classes typically include punching, kicking, and footwork drills that improve coordination, strength, and endurance. Beyond its physical benefits, kickboxing is also a great stress reliever. Studios like Fight Zone and Evolve MMA in Singapore offer group kickboxing classes suitable for beginners and advanced fighters alike.

It is both a self-defense skill and an intense workout, which is why kickboxing appeals to people looking for a practical form of exercise. The adrenaline rush from kickboxing workouts makes them highly engaging and an ideal outlet for stress.

8. Barre

Barre classes combine elements of ballet, yoga, and Pilates, focusing on small, controlled movements to target specific muscle groups. This low-impact workout helps build strength, flexibility, and balance. Barre classes are particularly popular among those seeking a sculpted, lean physique. With an emphasis on toning and stability, barre is a gentle yet effective workout.

The dance-inspired format is also appealing to people looking for something unique, while the small class sizes provide a more personalized experience.

9. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)

HIIT workouts involve short bursts of intense activity followed by brief rest periods, making it a fast and effective way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. Singapore offers many HIIT-focused classes, both as stand-alone sessions and as part of other programs like F45. The quick, intense nature of HIIT training appeals to people with busy schedules who want maximum results in minimal time.

The fast-paced nature keeps it interesting, making it ideal for those who find longer workouts repetitive.

10. Aqua Aerobics

For a refreshing workout experience, Aqua Aerobics is a water-based exercise that reduces strain on joints while providing resistance. This makes it ideal for older adults or anyone with joint issues. Aqua aerobics classes are held in pools, where participants perform various exercises that combine cardio and strength training.

It offers a gentle yet effective workout, especially for those with joint concerns or who are looking for a low-impact activity. And it’s a unique and enjoyable way to stay fit in Singapore’s hot climate.

Final Thoughts

Group fitness classes in Singapore offer a diverse range of options to suit various fitness goals and preferences. From the high-intensity workouts of F45 Training and CrossFit to the rhythmic dance moves of Zumba and the peaceful practice of yoga. There’s something for everyone. Participating in group fitness classes not only provides a structure workout but also fosters a sense of community and motivation.

However, with any sort of physical activity, it’s crucial to check with your doctor before participating in a high-intensity workout class. Have fun looking for the perfect group fitness class to fit your lifestyle!

It’s no secret that Singapore’s cost of living is rising, and with an abundance of affordable but less nutritious culinary options, finding ways to eat healthily while staying within budget can be challenging. Yet, with some planning and smart shopping strategies, you can enjoy a nutritious diet without breaking the bank. Here are some practical tips for healthy, budget-friendly eating in Singapore.

1. Plan Your Meals

I’m sure you’ve had your fair share of doom–scrolling and listening to social media fitness guru constantly emphasizing on meal planning, right? But do you know meal planning is the cornerstone of both healthy eating and budgeting? It’s important to spend some time each week planning your meals – taking into account your dietary needs and preferences. By knowing what you’ll eat each day for a week, you can easily create a condensed and focused shopping list and avoid impulse buys. Planning also helps you incorporate a variety of nutrients into your diet, ensuring balanced and healthy meals.

2. Shop at Wet Markets

Wet markets in Singapore are every local’s best kept secret. Here, you can get fresh produce at lower prices compared to supermarkets. Fruits, vegetables, and even seafood and meat are cheaper and fresher here. It’s also crucial to take advantage of these markets to buy seasonal produce. Shopping here also means you’re supporting local vendors, which is always a plus. Make it a habit to buy seasonal produce as it is often cheaper and has a lower environmental impact due to reduced transportation and storage costs.

3. Buy in Bulk

This may come as a no-brainer but purchasing staples like rice, grains, beans, and nuts in bulk can significantly reduce your grocery bill. Bulk buying also reduces packaging costs and often comes with a discount for larger quantities. Proper storage is essential here —use airtight containers to keep items fresh and avoid pest infestations. This method also helps reduce packaging waste, making it a more eco-friendly approach to grocery shopping.

4. Cook at Home

In this day and age, everyone should have basic cooking skills. Especially with the influx of air fryers and the like. Cooking at home also allows you to control ingredients and portion sizes – making it easier to eat healthily. Home-cooked meals are generally less expensive than eating out. What’s more, you can also experiment with all kinds of recipes that are readily available. Here’s a tip: batch cooking and meal prepping can save time and ensure you have healthy meals ready throughout the week. Additionally, you can use leftovers creatively to avoid food waste and stretch your food budget further.

5. Utilize Discounts and Promotions

Channel your inner kiasu and take advantage of discounts, promotions, and loyalty programs offered by supermarkets and grocery stores. Keep a lookout for card promotions to snag the best deals possible too. Many stores in Singapore offer weekly deals on fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. Apps like Fave, Shopee, Foodpanda, Grab, and Lazada also provide discounts on groceries. As such, planning your shopping around these deals can lead to substantial savings over time.

6. Grow Your Own Herbs and Vegetables

If you’ve a green thumb and the space to do so, you can also consider growing your own herbs and vegetables. You don’t need a huge garden — a balcony or windowsill with pots will do. Start with easy-to-grow herbs like basil, mint, or coriander, which can add flavor to meals and even replace store-bought seasoning. Not only is it economical, but gardening can also be a relaxing hobby.

7. Choose Affordable Protein Sources

Protein, despite being essential for a healthy diet, can be expensive. Hence, it’s important to opt for affordable protein sources like eggs, tofu, lentils, and canned beans. These options are nutritious, versatile, and cost-effective. Incorporate a mix of these proteins into your meals to ensure you meet your dietary needs without overspending. Eggs are versatile and can be used in many dishes, from salads to stir-fries. Lentils and beans are packed with fiber and can be added to soups, stews, and salads. Incorporate these alternatives into your diet to ensure you’re getting enough protein without overspending.

8. Embrace Frozen Fruits and Vegetables

Frozen fruits and vegetables are often as nutritious as fresh ones because they are frozen at peak ripeness. They’re also generally cheaper, last longer, and reduce food waste. You can easily incorporate frozen fruits into smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt, while frozen vegetables work well in stir-fries, soups, and pasta dishes. By choosing frozen produce, you’ll have nutrient-dense options readily available, even when you’re running low on fresh ingredients.

9. Limit Processed Snacks and Sugary Beverages

Processed snacks and sugary drinks can quickly eat into your budget without offering much in the way of nutrition. They often contain high amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which contribute to health issues over time. Replace these with whole foods like fruits, nuts, or homemade snacks. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also benefit from healthier alternatives that offer more nutrients and keep you full longer.

10. Opt for Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats are nutrient-dense and affordable. They keep you feeling full longer and provide sustained energy throughout the day. Buying whole grains in bulk can further reduce costs, and they are versatile ingredients that can be used across various meals. Try using brown rice or quinoa as a base for salads, grain bowls, or stir-fries to add fiber and essential nutrients to your diet.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, it is possible to eat healthy while saving money in Singapore! All you need to do is plan your meals and make smart choices. Remember, the key to affordable healthy eating lies in proper planning, budgeting, creativity, and making the most of available resources. With these strategies, you can enjoy wholesome meals and stay financially savvy in no time!