Shape_Singapore_June_2017

WET AND
WONDERFUL
OTHER WATER ACTIVITIES
WORTH CHECKING OUT.
● AQUA FITNESS CLASSES Water-based
training is great for rehabilitating injuries and
strength training. The Sports Hub organises a
range of aqua fitness classes at the OCBC Aquatic
Centre, from Aqua Bike to Aqua Tabata and even
Aqua Groove (a water-based dance and aerobics
workout). Register for one full programme, or
pay per session. You can even sign up for Aqua
Personal Training. Visit www.sportshub.com.sg/
venues/Pages/ocbc-aquatic-centre.aspx.
thrust into the air with only water for
support. I was super-wobbly initially
(which is to be expected) and spent
the bulk of my 45-minute lesson trying
to get into an upright position. That
involved lots of falling into the water.
The good thing was, my balance
improved markedly after each fall.
Because I’m so used to doing
squats, I instinctively bent my knees
and sat back whenever I felt unsteady,
causing me to fall backwards. Actually,
it’s a better idea to fall forward. Falling
backwards – and landing face up –
means I’d have to flip my body (and
the 10kg jet blades) to get into the
starting position, which became quite
tiring after the n th time.
After I managed to stand with the
water at waist level, the next goal was
to stay balanced and let the water
pressure drive me into the air. That was
when my instructor, Grace, reminded
me to relax my upper body and
straighten my legs. Doing so helped to
align my centre of gravity.
As I rose, Grace instructed me to
lift my toes (imagine standing on the
ground without your toes touching),
which helped me shoot even higher.
I later found out that my feet were
pointing downwards in the jet blades,
something I did not have the luxury to
see in the middle of the sea.
I guess jet blading is similar
to balancing on stilts, where the
tiniest shift in weight matters. As
you advance, you can learn various
impressive stunts such as swivels
and backflips!
Body benefits
Other than the balancing acts, my first
jet blading lesson felt pretty effortless.
Or so I thought. The next day, my lower
back, glutes, thighs and ankles ached.
What to wear
Since falling into the water
repeatedly is the norm, a one-piece
swimsuit or rashguard (preferably
long-sleeved) with board shorts and
swimwear underneath is a good idea.
A rashguard will prevent abrasions and
protect you from stinging sea creatures
like jellyfish.
How much it
costs
First-timers can choose between
a 30-minute lesson ($228) and a
45-minute session ($298). Before
hitting the water, you’ll be fitted with
a helmet and life jacket, and briefed
on the proper techniques to adopt.
Return customers are charged $80 per
15 minutes.
The watersports centre at Ola
Beach Club opens from 10am to 7pm
daily. The last booking for jet blading
is at 5pm. Visit olabeachclub.com for
more information.
● STAND-UP PADDLE YOGA If you love yoga
and wish to challenge yourself further, try standup
paddle (SUP) yoga. Instead of the usual, you
will practise yoga on a paddleboard while at sea.
It’s a great full-body workout. A Personal Flotation
Device will be provided if you wish. Classes are
reservation-based, so grab your friends and sign
up for a refreshing yet therapeutic experience.
Visit www.supyogasingapore.com.
● KAYAK EXPEDITION Kayak in Marina
Reservoir while enjoying the view of the city’s
skyline. The Singapore Canoe Federation runs
kayak expeditions that cover a distance of 4km
to 5km. No prior paddling experience is required,
as there will be professional coaches to guide you
along the way. This is a great bonding activity for
family and friends! Prior booking is required, and
a minimum of 10 persons is needed for a group
booking. Visit scf.org.sg.
TEXT CLAIRE ANG
SHAPE JUNE 2017 | SUMMER SHAPE UP | 49