Chong Wai Fung
Although I considered myself to be fairly active, I never took exercise seriously until 2004 when I noticed that my clothes size had gradually increased over the years, and I looked a little too chubby in photographs.
Determined to do something about it, I signed up at a gym and sought the help of a personal trainer. It took me several months to “graduate” from walking on the treadmill to running five kilometres at a comfortable pace. $CUT$
After the initial struggle, running and stair-climbing became a lot easier. It was also easier to stay motivated when the habit developed and my friends commented that I had lost weight. By the end of the year, I decided that I wanted to try and run a marathon.
With the goal in mind, it was easy to stay focused and running became enjoyable even. I achieved my goal when I ran the marathon in December 2005. I became ‘hooked’ to exercise – running in particular. Unfortunately I had to give up the sport when I fractured my metatarsal in 2007, and turned to swimming to maintain my fitness.
When I recovered, I decided to try a new challenge – triathlon! My workouts were more varied with swimming, running and cycling thrown into the mix.
I am constantly on the lookout for new challenges to keep things interesting. Besides running a marathon, I have also completed a marathon swim (10km) and a half-Ironman race.
I have recently discovered CrossFit, a strength and conditioning programme that is unlike what I have done before. It is very challenging and keeps me motivated to improve my performance.
I also plan to complete an Ironman distance race in future. I make time for regular exercise because there are obvious benefits – I can think during my long runs or swims, I can keep my weight down; I am stronger; and I feel better physically and mentally. Most of all, I keep doing it because it is fun!
Exercise keeps us physically and mentally fit. Women, given all our commitments to our private and professional lives, need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. When we are fit we are better able to contribute to society.
So come and attend our health talk Holistic Health for Women on 1 July 2012 (Sunday) and learn more about keeping our bodies and minds fit.
Ms Chong ran a chronic disease management programme, helping people with chronic respiratory diseases stay out of hospitals. She recently earned her Masters in Public Health obtained from NUS. While some complained about national service, she volunteered as a Nursing Officer in the SAF Combat Support Hospital, and has attended reservist training several times. Ms Chong is a leading member of the Women Democrats is one of the speakers at the upcoming health talk.
Event: Holistic Health for Women
Date: 1 July 2012, Sunday
Time: 2 to 5pm
Venue: The Seminar Room #02-08 Heritage Place
21 Tan Quee Lan St, S(188108)
Admission: Free. All are welcome
