Boot camps and high-intensity training are all the rage as more women step up their fitness game. Just reference Khloe Kardashian’s “Revenge Body” and Gigi Hadid’s fitness routine. It’s no longer a men-only arena. These gyms provide intense training that will push you to new limits. Hayley Tai tries four programmes of varying levels to get herself combat-ready.
Spike Your Stamina at Virgin Active
The gym has an Altitude Studio – a room where oxygen levels are lowered to simulate an environment 3,000m above sea level (almost as high as Mount Kinabalu). Less oxygen means more effort, and you’ll sweat more profusely.
After a basic warmup, I was assigned to the Jacob’s Ladder for my first station; this machine is an actual stairway to fitness heaven. Although it’s basically a moving ladder (picture a vertical treadmill), climbing it fast proved to be a coordination challenge: The faster you go, the more you struggle to keep up. With your limbs scrambling to find a hold, your heart rate quickly accelerates.
The lower air pressure really affected my breathing, and I was panting mid-circuit. The other stations offered a good mix of strength and stamina training: The kettlebell swings and tyre flips were a true test of lower-body strength, while the ab-roller pushed my core stability.
Although these stations needed only 30sec each, the burn bore through at the 20sec mark. By the third circuit, everyone in the room was panting. I managed to complete the class despite it being my first time.
Verdict: It’s a unique workout that takes up only 30min. Caveat: The instructor will check your resting heart rate before allowing you to join the class.
Get Stronger at UP
Esta historia es de la edición November 2018 de Her World Singapore.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición November 2018 de Her World Singapore.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Would You Swipe Right On Feminism?
In the debut instalment of this new opinion column, a single Singaporean declares that in her search for a long-term partner, there's nothing more attractive than a man who embraces gender equality.
The Orange Peel Theory
Would you break up with your partner over peeled fruit? This latest social media trend might just be the unlikely dealbreaker.
You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Taking A Vacation
Even though you've booked that much-needed vacation, you might find yourself hesitant to take the time off. How do you address the guilt that may be weighing you down, and actually enjoy your holiday?
Let Your Emotions Go
Have a flaky friend who always bails on plans? Here's how you can share how you feel while addressing the situation effectively.
How Much Is Family Planning Actually Costing You?
It's always prudent to be financially sound and savvy - especially if you're planning to start a family. Find out how you and your partner can map out a financial plan that is realistic, based on advice from parents and experts.
Do You Feel Guilty About Taking Leave?
We ask the Her World team, as well as readers, if they can truly unplug from work during a vacation.
Air-Dry Or Blow-Dry - Which Is Worse For Your Mane?
Haircare experts share their advice.
How Can I Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) More Effectively At Work?
Govtech engagement manager Nicole Lim answers.
BACK TO BOLD
Say goodbye to low-key and hello to decadence with over-the-top makeup trends. Here's why maximalist beauty is taking over.
THE CORTISOL CONNECTION
Is it possible to undo the ravages of stress while living in a fast-paced world? We dive into how our levels of cortisol - our body's primary stress hormone - can be regulated, and ways to manage its effects.