Muay Thai – One of the Most Popular Sport in Town!

Forget the days when you had to drag yourself to the gym after work everyday, getting overwhelmed by the complicated machines in the gym and panting as you power through on the treadmill. Muay Thai is now the trendy hot sport amongst many, who prefer breaking a sweat through the art of the eight limbs, and a sport you should definitely try (if you have yet to jump on the bandwagon)!

From Ryan Gosling to Demi Lovato, more celebrities are switching to working out through combat sports, particularly Muay Thai! Once associated with gang culture and street violence, the stigma attached to this combat sport has greatly reduced, thanks to the growing popularity amongst celebrities and influencers taking up the sport! Whether you’re intending to shed some pounds or look for a new workout routine, Muay Thai is probably one of the most effective workouts for your mind and body.

Muay Thai class at The Ring

Combining the use of your hands, feet, elbows and knees, Muay Thai tests your mental and physical endurance in order to provide you with the most rewarding workout. It engages almost every single muscle group in your body, and unlike running or lifting weights, you’re physically exercising your body in its entirety to receive the maximum pay-off when it comes to working out.

The integration of cardio, strength and endurance in Muay Thai is what draws many to the sport. Be prepared to work your core, arms and legs during each session! While exercises like running are beneficial to your physical well-being, a combat sport like Muay Thai requires immense mental concentration! During sparring sessions, you are expected to never let your guard down, but instead always try to anticipate your opponent’s next move.

A familiar face at The Ring, Operations Manager Felicia has been an avid fan of Muay Thai for over many years, and has even gone to Phuket and Bali for training sessions.

“I find that I often don’t have the time or motivation to workout in the gym, which is why I find Muay Thai such a tempting alternative. Classes usually run just slightly over an hour, and I am able to compact my entire day’s workout then. It’s fun, energetic and most importantly, effective!”

— FELICIA, OPERATIONS MANAGER AT THE RING

Most importantly, Muay Thai classes are almost never boring or repetitive because the coaches here at The Ring ensure a fun-filled intense training session fit for all! From shadow work to partner drills, you’ll definitely find yourself addicted to attending Muay Thai classes.

IF YOU’RE CONVINCED ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF THE SPORT, JOIN ONE OF OUR MANY MUAY THAI CLASSES TO FIND OUT WHY IT IS FAST BECOMING A FAVOURITE OPTION AMONGST MANY!

Find Muay Thai in Singapore at the Ring: Your Boxing Gym in Singapore!

May 17, 2019December 2, 2019

Top 5 Boxing Movies Of All Time

From classics like Rocky to more recent pictures like The Fighter, there are tons of boxing movies out there that pack a punch! Here’s The Ring’s Top 5 Boxing Movies of All Time.

5. MILLION DOLLAR BABY

A masterpiece by Clint Eastwood, this movie is a real tear-jerker and has tons of ups-and-downs. Get ready to witness the story of true grit and determination in the world of boxing, and get buckled in to go on an emotional rollercoaster.

Fun Fact: Our Founder Ruchdi trained with Hilary Swank at Gleason’s Gym in New York while she was training for this movie and met Clint Eastwood himself!

4. WHEN WE WERE KINGS

A big fan of Muhammad Ali? Here’s a treat for you! When We Were Kings follows the story of the Greatest of All Time, the one and only Muhammad Ali, in his glorious boxing days. He has changed the world of boxing ever since, and we thank him for it.

Fun Fact: At the Ring, we have two art pieces of Muhammad Ali – one watching you above the Ring and another next to the strength and conditioning area!

3. THE FIGHTER

The Fighter follows Micky Ward’s tumultuous journey as he fights his way into a spot at the London world championship. What adds to the spectacular boxing movie plot is the rocky and complex relationship between Micky and his brother – one that you’ll have to watch the movie yourself to understand.

2. CINDERELLA MAN

Cinderella Man is a heartwarming rags-to-riches story, where we witness the humbling story of James J. Braddock. Braddock injures his hand in one of his matches, and can no longer be in the ring. Further down the road, in a twist of events, he eventually makes a comeback to the ring, boxing using his other hand. He then fearlessly enters a match with notorious boxing champ Baer to become the heavyweight champion of the world.

1. ROCKY

Rocky is an instant classic when it comes to boxing movies – our favourites being Rocky III and Rocky IV. Portrayed and written by the legendary Sylvester Stallone, Rocky Balboa goes on a tough training regime to take on the heavyweight champion of the world in the ring. These movies are bound to inspire you to train harder than ever before, with its astounding scenes and catchy tunes. Rocky is one of the most inspirational movies ever- it has inspired fighters and boxing fans all over the world. It has taught us the most powerful lesson of persistence, the ability to just keep on moving forward, always.

Fun Fact: Do you know that we have an a pair of Golden Gloves signed by Rocky himself at The Ring? Check it out it’s next to the ring!

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS: CREED, SOUTH PAW, RAGING BULL AND REAL STEEL.

WHAT ARE YOUR BOXING MOVIE FAVOURITES? SHARE WITH US, AND WE’LL CATCH YOU IN THE RING.

May 14, 2019March 17, 2021

Ain’t No Hood Like MamaHood

Felicia, the Ring’s Operations Manager speaks of her journey as a Single Mama and the important lessons learned along the way. And yes, she’s the Ring’s Marie Kondo, efficient and super organized.

ABOUT FELICIA AND KIMI:

My daughter, Kimi, and I are the same height and size. We share clothes and shoes! On a more serious note, I learned responsibility from a very young age. I am the only girl of 3 siblings and I took care of the 3 of them! Bittersweet but I learned so much from it. It’s what made me who I am today.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MOTHERHOOD JOURNEY?

It’s been challenging, exciting and frustrating, but my heart has never been full. In life, all aspects face some sort of struggle, otherwise the world wouldn’t be revolving. Being a single parent is a journey for the strong and the weak, it evolves you, it forces you into adapting two roles and it rewards you doubly.

3 THINGS THAT YOU LEARNED AS A MOM:

Not all superheroes wear capes! As a single parent, you tend to adapt faster. The conventional books on parenthood may not really apply here, it’s either you do it or you try doing it again.

First lesson is to take care of you. If we put ourselves last, who’s going to look after our mental and physical health? Burn out has its repercussions, and those who are firstly affected are our children. So it’s important to take care of you in order to take of the other.

Second, I’ve learned that it’s about empathy and respect. Empathy is very rare to find these days, the double whammy I’ve been through has instilled this in me. I appreciate my daughter for who she is, I’ve taught her what responsibility means and how to appreciate others.

Third, taking responsibility and building resilience. Crash, fall down and get back on your feet once again. Stand tall despite challenges and keep on trying until you get it right [for you].

ON MUAY THAI in Singapore:

Muay Thai has empowered me with confidence outside The Ring. Knowing how to defend myself, even if I’ve have never been in a position of danger before, gives me an extra ounce of confidence. After years of training, my daughter looks up to me as a role model (and someone who can kick ass). This for me is empowerment.

ON BEING SUPER ORGANIZED:

Being a Virgo has a part to play, but who doesn’t want to be in a tidy environment? I worked as an Administrative Executive at a Children’s Home a few years back and the role entails superb organization skills. Good organization skills cut your journey in half. Just imagine in the morning you’re running late for work and can’t find the other pair of your sock?

Find your Muay Thai in Singapore at The Ring, your Boxing Gym Singapore!

May 6, 2019December 2, 2019

Conquering Heights and an Adventure Like No Other

Kyle Ravin, professional emcee, climbed the Everest Base Camp and the snowy mountains of Everest this year! Kyle has been training with The Ring for two years, and shares with us how he has prepared for this ultimate adventure.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CLIMB EVEREST BASE CAMP?

I felt at the start of my 30s, I should achieve something to keep me going for the next 10 years. I believe in setting goals and each milestone of one’s life should have a motivating factor. Everest is the pinnacle of great heights in the world and camping in the mountains is one of my ultimate goals. I told myself “If I can do this, I can do anything.” It was a total life-changing adventure, camping on the base and the summit expeditions, and I’ve never felt so accomplished.

HOW HAVE YOU PREPARED FOR THIS EVEREST ADVENTURE?

The initial stages of getting in shape was boxing lessons 4-5 times a week. Eventually, I sat down with Haikal, The Ring’s Strength and Conditioning coach and developed a 4-month plan. My tailored training plan involved various facets of physical fitness and we consistently trained and followed the plan religiously. This involved 3 sessions a week in the gym, and homework sessions when I’m not at the gym. Heaps of recovery workouts, swimming, stair climbing, weight training and cardio. What I love about my coach is that he knows how much to push you and when to take things slow. It wasn’t about always about working hard but also working smarter. I’m truly glad for Haikal’s guidance.

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED WHEN GOING UP OR CAMPING THE BASE CAMP? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE?

The trip was a myriad of challenges. First, there was the constant physical stress. Climbing 8 to 10 hours a day can take a toll on the knees. The altitude is something that definitely gets to you. Headaches, dizziness, lack of appetite were all part of the package.

Second, the cold. It was VERY Cold. It hit -27 degrees on basecamp. When it’s that cold, the water you carry freezes. Halfway up the Kala Pattar, my Camelbak tube (a bottle specifically designed for the cold) was frozen. Third, that night was supposed to be dry but we got hit by a snowstorm and it snowed down hard! It was freezing cold, everything in the tent was covered in frost and I was also suffering from food poisoning.

Ironically, the most beautiful night of my life was also the most challenging experience I had ever been through. Being ill in a snowstorm, at 2am on Mount Everest isn’t exactly fun. I had to constantly remind myself that it was all in the mind. A lot of what I was experiencing and doing was a mental challenge. It’s all about how I choose to endure my challenges. Of course being physically fit and having the right training helps.

ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO AIMS TO DO THE GO ON THE SAME ADVENTURE?

Train smart, get well conditioned and prepare for the lack of normal comforts. It’s smart to get a personal trainer to work with you on your journey. Cardio is key – your heart will be racing for most of the day when you’re on your feet. Most of it is uphill but even the downhill can be daunting on the legs. There is a lot of information out there on what to bring (a good set of hiking poles, purification tablets), what to wear and what kind of insurance (should include helicopter evacuation) but the most important one is to strengthen your mental mindset before such an adventure.

It’s not that hard, but it’s hard enough. However, the positives outweigh the challenges. The views are spectacular, the locals are amazing and the experience is like no other. Overall, it’s an adventure. It’s designed to test the mind and body. Enjoy the experience and every step will be bliss.

April 30, 2019December 2, 2019

Bringing the Community Together

THE RING’S FRIENDLY FIGHT FRIDAYS: A GATHERING OF FAMILY, FRIENDS, FANS

Fighting in the ring is always daunting, but The Ring’s founder Ruchdi Hajjar and Golden Glove Asia General Manager Dzul Jaffar are trying to overcome this stigma with The Ring’s Friendly Fight Fridays ( “FFF”). It started off as a casual brainstorming session between the two, who were discussing ways to increase community engagement in fight sports like Boxing and Muay Thai, and provide fighting enthusiasts a chance to experience sparring in the ring. From a humble turnout of 50 people at the first FFF to a growing audience of over 500 at the most recent event, The Ring is now preparing to host its 9th edition of the FFF this May! We sat down with Dzul to find out more about this successful community initiative.

Our first FFF and our first audience in the background 🙂

COULD YOU SUMMARISE WHAT FFF IS ALL ABOUT?

Friendly Fight Fridays is basically a platform to develop Boxing and Muaythai as a sport in Singapore. We understand that fighting often has a negative connotation, but through our event, we want to show the community that everyone is a winner in the ring! We realised that the sporting community lacked a casual but safe platform for sparring, and through my past experience as a Silat Coach and being in charge of youth development at the Singapore Silat Federation, I realised that in order to bridge this gap, an event like FFF could really benefit the community.

Pre-FFF Briefing during our very first FFF

THROUGH THE PAST 3 YEARS OF HOSTING FFF, WHAT WERE THE MOST MEMORABLE?

All of the FFF nights have been favourites for me so far, but seeing the overall expansion of the event, and the increased involvement of members from the different gyms was really gratifying. This has opened a lot of doors and enabled me to meet new people as well as discover many talented individuals!

Our main objective of hosting the event is to provide the public with a platform to witness the friendships and camaraderie forged in the ring. It is not always about winning or punching the hardest, but about respect for each other and the sport.

Muay Thai at the January 2019 FFF

Our 8th FFF in January this year was probably the most successful yet, where we had a total of 30 bouts, featuring both Muay Thai and Boxing. We even expanded to include a Flea Market during the event! From there, I realised the impact of this event had on the overall fight sport community in Singapore, and was really proud that we could grow so much throughout these years.

January 2019 FFF

WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR FFF?

It is always about the community, so we hope that FFF is able to provide budding fighters in Muay Thai and Boxing an opportunity to launch their passion as fighters. Through the various events, we have had individuals from different walks of life step into the ring and experience the adrenaline from the sport. Many were able to gain confidence and overcome their fears, and seeing them achieve something new really made me proud! Of course, I hope that the growth of FFF continues, because we have exciting plans in store for the future, but we will take it one step at a time.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT IN THE NEXT FFF?

You can expect more quality sparring as well a wider range of stores at our Flea Market! We will include exhibition bouts of fighters who currently train with us, and would also want to do our part to help charitable causes! Our fighters would be fighting for a cause, spreading the importance of reducing food wastage.

The next The Ring’s Friendly Fight Friday is happening on 31st May, and would feature exciting sparring sessions of both Muay Thai and Boxing! The event is free for all, so save the date! Details HERE

April 9, 2019December 2, 2019

Abdou Karroum: From Motorcross to Boxing

French Boxing Athlete Abdelelah aka “Abdou” Karroum speaks of his past, his boxing beginnings and why he moved to Singapore.

ABOUT ABDOU

I grew up in Corsica, a Mediterranean Island southeast of France. I was living in Monaco and I had an opportunity to move to Singapore and work with The Ring. I packed my bags, left everything behind and pursued a totally new experience. So far, there are no regrets! I am happy to work with the Team and eventually signed a long term contract with Red Glove Management.

OUTSIDE THE RING:

When I am not training or coaching at the Ring, I like to go shopping and try different activities. I like simple things and spending quality time with my girlfriend and group of friends. If I have more time, i love travelling! I love exploring a new country, meeting different people and experiencing different cultures.

LIFE BEFORE SINGAPORE

When I was young, I was not always an angel. I grew up with the wrong influence. Some of my peers ended in prison and some never found direction in their lives. One of my motivation is to become better and live my best life.

MY FIRST PASSION WAS MOTOCROSS, AN OFF-ROAD MOTORCYCLE RACING.

I even competed a couple of times! It is physically demanding and very expensive to sustain! Unfortunately, my family had not enough funding so I stopped eventually. But I discovered my next passion, BOXING – and that turned out to be a lot cheaper! 🙂

Motocross and Boxing are different but somehow similar in a number of ways. Both sports are very competitive and it’s necessary to take a lot of risks to succeed. Both requires a lot of courage, optimal focus and most importantly the dedication to work hard.

I was working as a car mechanic like my father and brother in Corsica. I wanted to be more than a car mechanic and was always looking for opportunities. Until one day, I was asked to audition to join the National Boxing Team in Monaco. I was already training regularly but I trained harder for 3 months, 6 times per week, twice per day in preparation for this audition. After all the hard work , I qualified to join the National Boxing Team. It has changed my life, and brought me to where I am now.

CATCH ABDOU IN ACTION AT THE RING FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP VI ON FRIDAY, 12TH OF APRIL, FOR THE WBC ASIA INTERIM SILVER TITLE.

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

April 1, 2019December 2, 2019

The Boxing Journey of Hamzah Farouk

This week, our WBC Asia Continental Champion Hamzah Farouk, shares his boxing
journey, his favourite family memories and what he’s looking for in a girl.

HIS BOXING JOURNEY

I started boxing when I was 16 and boxed as an Amateur for 8 years. I got a job in the banking industry as Operations and Sales while studying Psychology, then I stopped boxing. During those years, I missed boxing and training every day. I didn’t know what to do with the extra time and energy I had not training and started to develop a very unhealthy lifestyle. I felt very unhappy and unsettled with life and kept thinking about boxing every day. Until finally in mid-2016, I decided to turn my life around, quit my job and started boxing again. I am very happy where I am now, and to be boxing professionally.

3 FAVOURITE MOMENTS WITH YOUR FAMILY:

Going for our first ever family holiday to a place in Malaysia called Cherating beach. We grew up not really having much and my dad used to struggle financially. So for us to go on a holiday at that time was something I’ll never forget. We had a lot of fun together.

All my brothers’ weddings. Three of them. Bittersweet for me, not because they beat me to it, but because we grew up together being really close! I knew we won’t be able to spend as much time together once they get married. I was very happy for them, but at the same time felt a bit sad.

Winning the WBC Asia Continental belt last November. Not only was it my childhood dream, but it was for my family. They have supported me so much throughout my boxing career for 15 years now and I owe it all to them. Without the support of my parents and my brothers, nothing would be possible. It’s a way I give back to my family who stood by me throughout everything and what I am doing now, I am doing it for them.

FOR THE LADIES:

I like confident and cute girls who don’t take life or themselves too seriously, who have goals and are driven working towards it, and are able to hold serious intellectual conversations, and be sexy at the right times drive me crazy.

Hamzah’s 1st Boxing Photo

THINGS WE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU

AS A CHILD, I WAS PROBABLY THE BIGGEST NERD EVER.

Like all the other kids would be playing outside and I would be reading books in the house. I was very skinny and sickly, and I surrounded myself with more books than toys. I hated doing physical activities and loved reading about the outer space. My dream was to be an astronaut and a boxing champion. I already achieved one. Maybe the other soon!

I used to be a heavy smoker (30 sticks a day) from 2012 to 2016. When I decided to turn my life around and become a professional boxer, I quit smoking and I literally did it overnight without any help. If I can do it without counselling or calling a hotline, anyone can too.

CATCH HAMZAH IN ACTION AT THE RING FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP VI ON FRIDAY, 12TH OF APRIL, AGAINST PHAIBOON LORKHAM. GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

March 25, 2019December 2, 2019

Kirstie Gannaway: Food, Art and Travel Enthusiast

We had a chat with Kirstie Gannaway, half-Australian and half-Singaporean Boxing and MMA pro fighter on what she does outside the ring and her love of food, travel and animals.

OUTSIDE THE RING.

I’m a music, food, art and travel enthusiast. On a weekly basis, I would play the guitar and cook healthy meals and snacks. I love finding inspirations for healthy meals and snacks to replace foods that I’d otherwise want to binge. I also work on personal art works which are often drawings or small paintings. When I have more time, exploring new countries and experiencing other cultures is one of my most favourite things to do.

HER TOP 3 TRAVEL DESTINATIONS.

BALI, INDONESIA

A couple free days free or a long weekend, Bali is great for a quick getaway. There are so many parts of it to explore such as the beach and the terraces, depending on what you want to do. It caters to anyone whether it’s a party getaway, beach holiday or relaxation retreat.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Awesome beaches, great weather and the food is awesome! The people in Australia are easy going and are fun to be around. Being half Australian, it’s nice to go explore more of the country and know the place a little better.

HOKKAIDO, JAPAN

Hokkaido have great food produce including some of the freshest and best seafood and their dairy produce is amazing! In the winter there are snow sports available and for me its one of the best places to go snowboarding. In the summer, the nature there is really beautiful.

THINGS NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU.

I was a fat kid growing up! When I was 12 years old I weighed 65kg and hated sports. I loved horse riding but living in Singapore made it hard to keep up with because it is a really expensive activity here. It was when I started boxing when I was 15 years old my entire life turned around. The day I started, I never stopped!

I love animals. Since I was young my Brother and I would take in and nurture animals we found on the street that were either wild or pets that had been abandoned. We have taken in and saved tons of animals including turtles, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs and then mostly cats. Because of work and travelling, I didn’t commit to having a pet, so the last 3 years I’ve been a part of a cat fostering program where I will take care of cats that were from abusive homes or from the street. One of my dreams is to have an animal sanctuary where I can take in any animals of the street and foster them.

KIRSTIE’S TRAINING TIP:

If it’s difficult to train consistently because of work or school and can’t make it into the gym,
try squeezing in a run, skipping intervals and incorporate some core exercises. When I was younger and couldn’t find time to train at the gym I would sometimes do skipping intervals in the stairwell of
my apartment or even my bedroom (my neighbours hated me!) and then would do some repetitions of simple core exercises – because core work will always come in handy.

It’s just a simple way to stay conditioned so that when you do have the time to come back to the gym, you’ll be able to keep up.

CATCH KIRSTIE IN ACTION AT THE RING FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP VI ON FRIDAY, 12TH OF APRIL, FIGHT AGAINST NADYA KHOIR. GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

March 12, 2019December 2, 2019

It’s HER: Meet the Women of The Ring

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY!

This Women month, we’re celebrating the women of The Ring! We sat down with some of our members to ask them why they love Boxing or Muay Thai (or The Ring!), who inspires them the most, what motivates them and that ONE advice to all the ladies out there!

CHARLOTTE

Building Designs and Adventurer

Boxing has been an important part of my life over the last 3 years. I feel stronger physically and mentally and highly focused at work. When I get to the gym , I lace up my boxing gloves and start focusing on what I want to achieve for this session : Is it having fun ? Is it more cardio? It is being more technical or just simply punching hard ! Well it can be all together, I can sweat, I can laugh, I can express myself the way I want and even do some weird sound which boxin Coach Abdu always laughs about ! I feel more of a woman than ever when I box. It’s about that woman I want to be for that precise moment , it’s me who decide and I owe it to ME!

HER INSPIRATION.

Estelle Mossely, a light weight French boxer, is a woman I admire among so many others. She competed in many events and won the 2016 AIBA Women’s World Amateur Championship and with her husband Tony Yoka, they won also a 2016 Olympic Gold medalist. I admire her because she has just starting her professional career in the boxing world and at the same had a baby. She has been amazing sharing her life and tough times being back on the ring after a pregnancy! She is real and honest, she doesn’t pretend being the best role model as a mum or as an athlete.

HER MOTIVATION.

My motivation is really to achieve a great and happy work-life balance ! I want to be fit, healthy, happy and successful. I do like to set some goals short term and long term. Don’t be too hard on you, be honest with your goals, they must be realistic. I travel quite a lot with work. Sometimes I work out when overseas but sometimes I don’t ! It’s okay ! Just relax , come back and give it all!

HER ADVICE: IF YOUR HAPPINESS IS GOOD FOOD AND PARTY, ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF IT AND WORK OUT!

AALIYAH

Account Director and Scent Brander

Six months ago, I walked into the Ring for a work meeting and it took me by surprise. At first, I must admit it did intimidate me, a physical boxing ring is never something I had imagine I’d step in! The start of my journey at the Ring took me out of my comfort zone of yoga and running to boxing, Muay Thai and Strength and Conditioning.

The Ring has truly empowered me. I could now go out into the world knowing that if had the courage to do this, I could do anything really. Not only is boxing a strength and cardio workout, its the best way to get in tune with your inner badass.

HER INSPIRATION.

My Mum! As cliché as that sounds. She had reminded me that the true beauty of a person is their mannerism & the kindness bestowed to others. This has impacted my life choices & led me to be more picky about how I spend my time, who I spend it with & it matters, it truly does.

HER MOTIVATION.

The people, places & the emotions that surround us impacts our life, so find one that accepts you for who you are but also allows you to grow. The Ring has created an environment for me where I now feel confident to push boundaries & take on the impossible. It’s been scary, exciting & exhilarating!

HER ADVICE: DO SOMETHING THAT SCARES YOU & PUSHES YOU EVERY NOW AND AGAIN. TAKE A DEEP BREATH, A LEAP OF FAITH AND ALWAYS HAVE A NICE SHADE OF ROUGE LIPPY ON!

SYLVIA

Doctor and World Traveler

Muay Thai is one part of my overall fitness life. Unlike running, Muay Thai requires 100 percent focus.
I really like that it is consistent with the philosophy of continuous improvement, which I try to apply in all aspects of my life.

HER INSPIRATION.

I meet so many incredible women every day. I can’t even begin to describe the equanimity that some women display despite the complex challenges they face in their lives. These are the women I admire, those with calm and grace, and who remain generous and sincere.

HER MOTIVATION.

Fitness is part of my life. I am particularly motivated by the technical precision of boxing and Muay Thai. Francis (my trainer) is so focused on improving every kick, every punch, every move- he trains me as if I’m going to fight!

HER ADVICE: FIND WHAT YOU ENJOY, IT IS AS MUCH ABOUT THE PROCESS AS THE OUTCOME OF BEING FIT.

ANNIE

Fashionista and Marketer at Chanel

I’ve always been active, but no other sport has made me feel so empowered not just as a woman, but as a social being, than boxing. It brings me to a state of mind that is calm, collected and focused, while being able to explore what my body can do as an engine. We are all fitter and more energetic than we think! After a good session, I feel like I can do anything.

HER INSPIRATION.

My mother, 100%. She was always my inspiration since I was a little kid – she would always try to enjoy life to the fullest and never doubted her strength as a strong, empathetic presence anywhere; overall an electrifying woman.

HER MOTIVATION.

Loved ones including family and friends, and my mental well-being. I want to be able to share my best self driven by positive energy in my communities, so that we can all spread awareness and excitement for mental and physical health.

HER ADVICE: WE CAN DO A GAZILLION THINGS AT THE SAME TIME WHILE STILL BEING EMOTIONALLY INTELLIGENT! LET’S RIDE THIS BLESSING AND CONTINUE TO INSPIRE AND BRING EACH OTHER UP.

DANIELA

Passionately Curious, Beauty Seeker

Boxing was a great discovery in my life. No matter what is your gender, there’s a part of martial arts where we need humility and respect. Boxing encompasses key morality principles that guide my decision-making process and human conduct.

HER INSPIRATION.

There is an extensive list of women I admire, from the most powerful and popular ones such as Michelle Obama, Valentina Tereshkova, Oprah, Malala Yousafzai, Rita Levi-Montalcini, Frida Kahlo, Eileen Chang and more. Throughout history, women have fought courageously and tirelessly to assert themselves as individuals and experts in their field, something most men have had the luxury of taking for granted. Who I admire the most, regardless if men or women, are personalities somewhat diverse and unique who are guided by intellect and passion.

HER MOTIVATION.

Passion is my key driver, I put love and hard work in whatever I am doing. This leads to greater achievements and creative solutions. I am genuinely curious about patterns, cultures, places and people. This allows me to keep learning, exploring and moving.

HER ADVICE: MASTER YOUR INTUITION AS A GUIDE, DON’T NEED TO CHOOSE MEDIOCRE WHEN FIRE EXISTS AND DO IT NOW!

MARY ROSE

Geek Mais Chic, Mama of 2

Boxing has always been a part of my DNA. I come from a country of professional boxers and true fanatics of the sport. I started boxing seven years ago (with my husband’s influence) as a way to get fit and toned, and there’s no other sport that challenges me mentally and physically, as boxing. One of the coaches at The Ring said ‘“Boxing is a form of meditation” and I totally agree with that!

HER INSPIRATION.

I’m inspired by women leaders who make an impact to the world (Michelle Obama) and those who have mastered resilience and rise above the challenges and failures in life. I’m inspired by role models (Arianna Huffington) who support other women to reach their full potential.

HER MOTIVATION.

As a working mom to two active boys , I need to keep my energy levels high at home and at work! I owe it to my loved ones to be healthy, strong and fit. Living an active and healthy lifestyle has always been one of my priorities so I keep on moving every day!

HER ADVICE: WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH, PUT ON YOUR BOXING GLOVES!

February 27, 2019March 18, 2021

Box Your Way To A Healthier Mind

Many studies have shown that frequent exercise can lead to improvements in your mental wellbeing – from lowering your anxiety to boosting your self-esteem. A quick 20 to 40 minutes of aerobic workout can easily enhance your mood for several hours. Boxing is not only a great sport that engages your full body – It is also a great mental booster. Find out more about the mental benefits of boxing.

If you’re one that struggles to find the motivation to head to the gym, boxing classes are a great alternative for the busy individual. Often lasting between forty-five minutes to an hour, boxing classes encourage you to fully concentrate your mind and energy during its duration. Compared to working out alone, classes are definitely more inclusive and provide a fun environment to interact and socialize. Research also shows that group workouts offer greater benefits for mental health because they stimulate social interaction and motivation. On days when you desperately need an extra boost, working out in a group forces you to be present in the moment, especially during partner-based drills. It also encourages you to establish greater awareness and connection with your physical body.

Morning workouts are generally beneficial for your mental wellbeing because they increase your productivity and energy levels throughout the day. Instead of feeling lethargic after working out, many individuals experience lesser stress and higher motivation. Exercising also produces endorphins, which are said to alleviate depression and reduce stress and anxiety. Kick starting the day with a workout will increase your mental focus, resilience and determination.

Boxing is also a fantastic outlet for releasing pent up emotions! Punching your stresses on the bag allows for a healthy way to release aggression, letting you work through your negative feelings. Rather than suppressing your emotions, exercising is a great way to let off some steam, improving your overall mental well-being.

Boxing coach Syakir says,

“Boxing for me is a form of meditation. Boxing is somewhat a very personal sport that when done in a big group can be a great form of support. Your individual mental battles are equally as important as your physical battles in the ring. Boxing can help break down those mental walls and help you achieve a much better mental state after a session.”

Picking up a new skill is always great, and a sport like boxing can be a great confidence booster for those who find hitting the gym daunting. Here at The Ring, our personalized classes provide a safe and fun environment for you to improve and hone your skills. You will have the opportunity to be exposed to the different techniques and forms of boxing by our qualified coaches, and interact and socialize with others, improving your confidence! Start off 2019 with a promise to be a better you!

Find at your Boxing Gym in Singapore, the Ring, Muay Thai Singapore,

Boxing Classes for Teens, Boxing Classes for Ladies in Singapore and more!