Everyone loves all things free, so why not a list of free workout places in Singapore? Finding convenient and cost-effective ways to stay fit in this busy city is always a hassle. However, Singapore offers a wide range of public spaces (with scenic views) where you can exercise for free. Here are some of the best places to check out.
Is Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park in the Northern or Southern part of Singapore? The confusion is a tale as old as time and we’ll never know where it’s properly located, will we? Either way, this park is one of the largest urban parks in Singapore, coupled with beautifully landscaped gardens and open spaces. Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park offers well-paved paths – fit for jogging, walking, and cycling. It also consists of fitness corners with exercise equipment available for public use. The park’s riverine landscape and scenic views create a serene environment, making it a bonus to the free workout space.
Photo Credits: Marina Barrage
2. Marina Barrage
Apart from being our green city’s hotspot for kite flying and picnics, Marina Barrage offers a unique spot for exercise with stunning views of Singapore’s skyline and Marina Bay. Many fitness groups convene here for activities like yoga, tai chi, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), dance classes, and more. The open space and fresh air provide a refreshing setting for various exercises.
Photo Credits: Singapore National Stadium
3. National Stadium and Sports Hub
Of course, the National Stadium and Singapore Sports Hub have to make the list, right? Over here, they offer multiple free fitness facilities that are open to the public. The 100PLUS Promenade, a 1km sheltered running track around the stadium, is open 24/7 for jogging and walking. The Sports Hub also showcases a slew of free fitness programs, including group exercise classes and sports activities. You already know you can stay active without any cost here!
Photo Credits: Gardens by the Bay
4. Gardens by the Bay
One of our major tourist attractions, Gardens by the Bay, is another brilliant place for a free workout. It’s filled with expansive gardens, waterfront views, and well-maintained paths that are perfect for jogging, brisk walking, cycling, or even meditation. Be sure to check out the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome – where they’ll provide a unique backdrop for your exercise routine. The garden hosts free fitness events too!
Photo Credits: NParks Singapore
5. Bedok Reservoir Park
Easties, this one’s for you! Featuring a 4.3km track that circles the reservoir, this popular spot is perfect for outdoor exercise. Here, you can jog, walk, cycle, or even rollerblade where it’ll offer a scenic route with water views and plenty of greenery. Fitness enthusiasts can also take advantage of the various exercise stations located around the park. Bedok Reservoir Park is truly the epitome of a refreshing escape for those who are looking to stay active in a natural setting.
Final Thoughts
See, staying fit and healthy in Singapore doesn’t have to be expensive at all! Despite being a small island, we have plenty of public spaces available offering free access to fitness facilities and beautiful environments. Enjoy scenic views and keep yourself active without spending a dime at these places.
Running is one of the most popular workouts for maintaining fitness and overall health. It’s no secret that the running culture is Singapore is gradually growing. Hence, finding the perfect running route on this busy island will enhance your exercise routing – providing both a scenic view and safe path. Read on to find out more!
If you don’t already spend your time in the east, East Coast Park is a favorite among Singaporean runners – offering a 15km stretch along the southeastern coast. Over here, the park boasts flat terrains and well-maintained paths making it idea for runners of all levels. Considering the rising heat levels in Singapore, running here also provides a refreshing coastal breeze and stunning views of the sea. Making it a pleasant experience for you. Additionally, East Coast Park is also equipped with amenities like toilets, drinking fountains, and a plethora of food outlets!
Photo Credits: NParks Singapore
2. MacRitchie Reservoir
Fancy the greenery? Then MacRitchie Reservoir is the perfect destination. The 10km nature trail and reservoir park loops offers a mix of paved paths and nature trails through lush rainforest. Runners can also enjoy the serene environment, spot wildlife, and a tackle the famous TreeTop Walk – a suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the forest canopy. This trail is on the top of our list as it provides a challenging yet rewarding workout, ideal for those seeking a connection with nature while exercising. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might bump into a monkey or two, or monitor lizard on your run.
Photo Credits: Marina Bay Sands Singapore
3. Marina Bay
Not only a tourist hub, Marina Bay offers one of the most iconic running routes in Singapore. The 3.5km loops around the Marina Bay Sands area and the neighboring Gardens by the Bay, providing stunning views of the city skyline, the Singapore Flyer, and the picturesque Marina Barrage. It also has a well-lit and paved path, making it a popular spot for evening runs. This route’s accessibility and proximity to downtown Singapore makes it a convenient choice for anyone who’s looking to fit in a quick run after work.
Photo Credits: NParks Singapore
4. Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a favorite spot for both casual joggers and serious runners. The gardens offer a variety of paths winding through beautifully landscaped areas, including the National Orchid Garden and Swan Lake. The tranquil setting and well-shaded routes provide a relaxing environment for a run, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The gardens also have several rest areas and water points, ensuring a comfortable running experience.
5. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
For a more challenging and adventurous run, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the place to go. Home to Singapore’s highest natural point, Bukit Timah Hill, the reserve offers steep trails and rugged terrain. The 1.2km summit trail provides a tough workout with a rewarding view at the top. This reserve is perfect for runners looking to build strength and endurance while enjoying the natural beauty of one of Singapore’s oldest rainforests.
Final Thoughts
We have a diverse range of running routes here, catering to different preferences and fitness levels. So, whether you prefer the scenic coastal paths of East Coast Park or the serenity of Singapore Botanic Gardens, there is a perfect running spot for everyone. Why not incorporate these popular workouts into your routine to accelerate your fitness journey and receive a refreshing break from the daily grind, right? So lace up your running shoes and explore the places above to make the most of what sunny Singapore has to offer.
The rush of living in fast-paced Singapore gets to you when work schedules are demanding and finding time to exercise can be challenging. Alas, despite all of that, staying healthy is crucial – especially for busy professionals. Home workouts are an excellent solution, offering convenience and flexibility without the need for a gym membership or a personal trainer. And we have just the guide for you (plus it’s apartment-friendly too)!
Bodyweight exercises are perfect for home workouts. They require no equipment and can be done in small spaces. Start with the few highly effective exercises below to build strength and improve your overall fitness.
Push-Ups: If you’re a Singaporean who’ve served the nation, put what you’ve learnt from the two years of NS to good use! This classic exercise targets the chest, shoulders, and triceps. Start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart. Then, lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor, then push yourself back up. You can also adjust the workout by doing knee push-ups if needed.
Squats: Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and lower your body as if sitting back into a chair – keeping your knees over your ankles. And return to an upright, standing position. Squats are perfect for strengthening the legs and glutes.
Planks: This one is fit for engaging your core, shoulders, and back. Engage your core, shoulders, and back with planks. Start in a forearm plank position, ensuring your body is in a straight line from head to heels. Hold the position for 30 to 60 seconds. Planks are highly effective for building core strength and stability, which is essential for posture and injury prevention.
2. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
If you haven’t already tried it, HIIT workouts are popular. Especially for their efficiency and effectiveness. These workouts involve short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods. HIIT is perfect for busy professionals as it delivers maximum results in minimal time. However, if you’ve underlying health conditions, it is important to check with your doctor before you attempt at doing any kind of HIIT workout. Also, remember to be considerate to your neighbors!
Burpees: Begin standing, drop into a squat, place your hands on the floor, kick your feet back into a plank, perform a push-up, return to the squat, and jump up. Burpees are an intense full-body exercise that builds endurance and cardiovascular strength. Since they involve multiple muscle groups, they are effective at burning calories.
Jumping Jacks: Start with feet together and hands by your sides. Jump your feet out while raising your arms overhead, then return to the starting position. Jumping jacks are simple but effective for raising heart rate and boosting cardiovascular fitness. They’re also low-impact compared to other cardio exercises, making them ideal for apartments. Disclaimer: do this at a conducive or exercise-friendly space, one that wouldn’t bother the neighbors.
Mountain Climbers: Start in a plank position and quickly alternate bringing one knee towards your chest. This exercise targets the core, shoulders, and legs. Mountain climbers improve core stability and cardiovascular fitness, making them an efficient exercise for full-body conditioning.
3. Yoga and Stretching
Channel a calmer you by practicing yoga. Yoga is ideal for improving flexibility, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. It’s also perfect for small spaces and can be easily adapted to any fitness level. Yoga not only improves your physical health but mental health, too. Below are a few yoga poses to try for a start.
Sun Salutations: This sequence of poses warms up the body, increases flexibility, and strengthens muscles. It includes forward bends, lunges, and gentle backbends. Sun salutations are perfect for waking up the body and can be done as a standalone routine or a warm-up for other workouts.
Child’s Pose: A resting pose that gently stretches the back, hips, and thighs. Kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels, and stretch your arms forward, lowering your forehead to the ground. Child’s pose can help relieve lower back tension and promote relaxation.
Downward Dog: From a plank position, lift your hips towards the ceiling to form an inverted V-shape. This pose stretches the hamstrings, calves, and shoulders while strengthening the upper body. It’s a great way to release tension after a long day of sitting.
4. Resistance Band Workouts
Resistance bands are affordable, portable, and perfect for adding resistance into your workouts without needing heavy equipment. It doesn’t cost much too!
Band Rows: Secure the band at a low point, hold the handles, and pull back, squeezing your shoulder blades together. This exercise strengthens the back and biceps, making it a great exercise for improving posture and reducing shoulder strain from sitting.
Band Squats: Stand on the band with feet shoulder-width apart, holding the handles at shoulder height. Perform a squat while maintaining tension in the band. Band squats engage the legs, glutes, and core, providing a full lower-body workout.
Band Leg Presses: Lie on your back, loop the band around your feet, and hold the handles. Press your feet away from your body, engaging your core and legs. Band leg presses offer a low-impact alternative to traditional leg presses, making them ideal for those looking to strengthen their legs without heavy weights.
5. Core Workouts
Strengthening your core is essential for overall fitness and stability, especially if you spend hours sitting at a desk. Core exercises help improve posture, balance, and protect against back pain.
Russian Twists: Sit on the floor with knees bent, lean back slightly, and twist your torso side to side. Hold a weight or a water bottle for added resistance. Russian twists engage the oblique muscles, which are important for rotational strength.
Bicycle Crunches: Lie on your back, bring one knee towards your chest while extending the other leg, and twist your opposite elbow towards the raised knee. Bicycle crunches target the entire core, including the lower abs, helping to build a strong foundation.
Leg Raises: Lie on your back, lift your legs towards the ceiling, and slowly lower them without touching the floor. Leg raises are effective for engaging the lower abdominal muscles, which are often underworked in traditional core exercises.
Final Thoughts
Staying fit as busy professional in Singapore isn’t impossible, and doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. All you need to do is incorporate these best and easy home workouts into your routine to maintain your health and fitness without leaving your apartment. These exercises are designed to be effective, require minimal equipment, cost efficient, and can be completed anywhere. However, do remember that consistency is key. Short, regular workouts can lead to significant health benefits. Make fitness a part of your daily routine today!
Do you know that you can maintain your own aircon unit? Doing it yourself ensures that it runs efficiently and lasts longer too. While professional aircon servicing in Singapore is key, there are several maintenance hacks you can perform to keep your unit in top condition between professional services. These simple hacks can help you avoid costly repairs, and ensure a cool and comfortable home.
In many HDB flats and apartments, the aircon’s indoor unit is more accessible than the outdoor unit. Over time, the coils inside the indoor unit can accumulate dust and dirt leading to the reduction of efficiency. To clean the coils, first turn off the aircon and unplug it from the main power point. Then, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove the dirt and dust from the coils. This will help maintain efficient cooling and prolong the unit’s lifespan.
2. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly
One of the most important maintenance tasks is to clean or replace your air filters regularly. You’d be surprised to know that not many do this often or at all. It’s important to note that dirty filters can obstruct airflow, reduce efficiency, and strain the system. Plus, aircon filters that are filled with dust can also trigger allergies and cause you to fall ill.
For optimal performance, check your aircon filters every months and clean or replace them every two to three months. If you’ve pets or allergies, it’s advisable to do this more frequently. All you have to do is remove the filter, wash it with warm water (and mild detergent) to improve your aircon’s airflow. Clean filters not only improve air quality but can help reduce your electricity bills.
3. Check the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain removes moisture from your aircon to prevent water damage and keep humidity levels under control. However, it can sometimes get clogged with dirt or algae, leading to water leaks and increased humidity in your home. Inspect the drain regularly to make sure it’s clear. A good trick for DIY maintenance is to use a wet/dry vacuum to gently suck out any debris. If you notice any pooling water or foreign materials clogging the drain, take action immediately to avoid damage. This hack can prevent costly water damage and keep your indoor environment comfortable and healthy.
4. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Good airflow is essential for the efficient operation of your aircon. Make sure that your aircon is not obstructed by furniture, curtains, or other objects that can block airflow. Keeping the area around the aircon clear helps improve its performance and prevents it from overworking. Additionally, regularly cleaning the vents and ensuring they are open will help maintain proper airflow. For better ventilation, consider using a ceiling or oscillating fan to help circulate the cool air more evenly, reducing the need for the aircon to work overtime.
5. Adjust Temperature and Fan Speed Settings
Sometimes, optimizing your aircon can be as simple as adjusting the temperature settings. Running your aircon at a lower temperature requires more energy, but setting it to a slightly higher temperature (around 24-26°C) can help you save energy without sacrificing comfort. Use the fan mode when the room is already cool to circulate air and maintain the temperature. Setting your aircon to sleep mode or eco mode during the night can help cut down on energy consumption, keeping your home cool while saving you money.
6. Use a Timer
Setting a timer is an underrated yet effective way to optimize energy use. Instead of running your aircon non-stop, use a timer to switch it off once the room reaches a comfortable temperature. If you’re stepping out for a while, set a timer to turn the aircon off an hour before you leave. You can also set the aircon to start cooling just before you arrive back home. Using a timer not only reduces electricity consumption but also prevents unnecessary wear and tear on your unit.
7. Close Windows and Doors to Keep the Cool In
While it might sound obvious, closing doors and windows is essential to keep the cool air in and prevent the unit from overworking. If you’re cooling only a particular area, close off rooms that don’t need cooling. This reduces the area your aircon needs to cool, making it more efficient and allowing the room to cool down faster. Adding blinds or curtains to windows during the hottest parts of the day can also help block out heat, allowing your aircon to work more effectively
8. Install Insulation to Improve Efficiency
Insulation is another hack that helps trap cool air indoors, reducing the need for your aircon to work as hard. Installing insulation around windows and doors can prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. Although it’s a small addition, proper insulation can make a significant difference in how efficiently your aircon cools the room. Consider insulating key areas, especially during the hotter months, for optimal performance and energy savings.
9. Regular Professional Servicing
Not forgetting the most important step, regular professional servicing. While DIY maintenance can help keep your aircon running smoothly, you still require the help of professionals to address more complex issues and perform a thorough cleaning. Schedule for an annual aircon servicing with a reliable aircon servicing provider in Singapore to deep clean your aircon units, check for potential problems, and upkeep it. Professionals also have the expertise and right tools to perform a comprehensive check and maintenance which can prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs.
Final Thoughts
By incorporating these DIY aircon maintenance hacks, you can ensure that your aircon system runs smoothly and remains in good condition for a long time. It also eases the load of the aircon servicing providers, allowing them to conduct their checks thoroughly. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your unit but improves its performance, saving you money on bills and repair costs. Keeping your aircon in top shape ensures a comfortable and cool home environment all year round.
Don’t forget, however, that some tasks are best left to professionals. Reliable aircon servicing in Singapore ensures your unit is thoroughly inspected and optimized for peak performance. With these DIY hacks and a little professional support, you can enjoy a comfortable, cool home without a hefty price tag.
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 dive into 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.
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. This studio is perfect for those new to yoga, seeking a supportive community and a solid introduction to the practice.
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
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’s beginner classes emphasize proper alignment, breathing techniques, and building a strong foundation, making it an excellent choice for those starting their yoga journey.
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
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 helping students develop a sustainable yoga practice. Yoga Lab’s emphasis on community and connection makes it a popular choice for newcomers.
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
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 here are dedicated to ensure that new students feel comfortable and confident, making Hom Yoga a safe space of sorts.
Address: Multiple locations across Singapore Average Cost: S$49 for introductory trial Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 6am – 10pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8am – 8pm
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. The Yoga Mandala’s beginner classes focus on building strength, flexibility, and mindfulness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a holistic approach to yoga. The studio’s emphasis on community and personalized instruction sets it apart as a top choice for newcomers.
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. So, choose a studio that resonates with you and embark on a journey of physical, mental, and spiritual growth.
In a tropical climate like Singapore, aircon is key for maintaining comfort at home and work. However, running your aircon often can lead to high energy bills. And that’s why optimizing your aircon for energy efficiency not only helps reduce these costs but also minimizes your environmental footprint. Read on to learn about some effective strategies to implement to your daily routine to make sure your aircon system operates at peak efficiency.
Do you service your aircon regularly? If not, do you know that regular aircon servicing is important to upkeep the efficiency and longevity of your unit? By doing so, professional technicians are able to clean the filters, coils, and fins to ensure that the system operates smoothly and effectively. Dirty or clogged filters also obstructs airflow, making the system work harder and consume more energy. Hence, scheduling regular aircon servicing with reliable professionals in Singapore keeps your aircon up-to-date and reduces energy consumption.
2. Seal and Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation and sealing of your home can prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering, which makes your aircon work less. Ensure that doors and windows are properly sealed to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Adding insulation to your walls, attic, and floors can also help in keeping the cool air inside, thus enhancing the efficiency of your aircon system.
3. Optimize Airflow and Ventilation
Ensure that vents and registers are not blocked by furniture, curtains, or other obstructions. Proper airflow is essential for the efficient operation of your aircon unit. Using ceiling fans can also help distribute cool air more evenly throughout your home, allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Good ventilation can reduce the load on your aircon system, leading to energy savings.
4. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model
If your aircon is old, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Latest aircons come with advanced features such as inverter technology. Inverter technology adjusts the compressor speed according to the cooling demand, resulting in lower energy consumption. Look for units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings, as these models are designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly.
5. Maintain Optimal Temperature Settings
Setting your aircon to an optimal temperature can significantly impact energy consumption. The recommended temperature for energy efficiency is around 24-26 degrees Celsius. Avoid setting the thermostat too low, as this can increase energy usage and put unnecessary strain on your air conditioning system.
6. Use Curtains and Blinds
During the hottest parts of the day, use curtains and blinds to block out direct sunlight. This can help reduce the amount of heat entering your home, allowing your aircon to cool the space more efficiently. Reflective or blackout curtains are particularly effective in minimizing heat gain, which can lower the energy required for cooling.
7. Consider a Smart Thermostat
Investing in a smart thermostat can be a game-changer for optimizing your aircon’s efficiency. Smart thermostats learn your temperature preferences and adjust the cooling schedule based on your routines, ensuring that the aircon isn’t running when it isn’t needed. Many models also come with remote control capabilities, allowing you to adjust the temperature through an app. This way, you can set the aircon to turn on just before you arrive home, ensuring comfort without wasting energy.
8. Close Doors to Unused Rooms
Closing doors to rooms that don’t need cooling can help your aircon focus on the areas you use most. By minimizing the space your aircon needs to cool, you reduce the demand on the system, helping it to run more efficiently. If you live in a larger space, consider investing in a zoning system that directs cool air only to the areas you use most, which can greatly enhance your unit’s energy efficiency.
9. Turn Off Other Heat-Generating Appliances
Electronics and appliances like ovens, stoves, and computers generate heat, which can increase the temperature of your room and make your aircon work harder. To optimize energy efficiency, avoid using heat-producing devices in the same room as your aircon, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, try cooking early in the morning or using energy-efficient appliances that produce less heat.
Young attractive teamwork cleaning service workers happy working holding disinfection spray to camera, Asian housekeepers female work together arm crossed smile, professional cleaning service concept
10. Consider Part-Time Helpers for Routine Maintenance
Sometimes, maintaining an aircon can be a tedious task. If you find it challenging to stay on top of routine cleaning, hiring a part-time helper could be a practical solution. Part-time helpers can handle aircon filter cleaning, vent dusting, and even window sealing, ensuring your aircon operates at maximum efficiency. Hiring professionals for these smaller tasks frees up your time and ensures that your aircon is well-maintained.
Final Thoughts
Although it may seem simple, optimizing your aircon for energy efficiency actually involves a combination of regular maintenance and simple but effective adjustments to your home environment. By following these tips, you can reduce energy consumption, lower your utility bills, and extend the lifespan of your aircon system. Reliable aircon servicing also plays a vital role in ensuring your unit operates at peak performance. So please remember to schedule regular maintenance with trusted professionals to keep your aircon running!
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