This round of new LM releases filmed at the Global Summit has been awesome. Somehow it always reminds me of the atmosphere and the notion of what 'Fitness Magic' is all about.
BC36 - Loved it very much for a few reasons. Not only am I glad to get the horrible BC35 behind me, but BC36 does have some excellent tracks which I love. It's a tough workout and I really like seeing myself inside the video, which makes me even more determined to get my ass down to Auckland again for the filming.
BP66 - Haven't had the time to do it myself yet (other than filming in AKL) but I must say that looking at the tracks, I think they are quite awesome. My favourites has got to be T4 - What Hurts The Most by Cascada. And the cooldown, it is an old song from the past - 2 to 3 years ago, Sheryl Crow's Always On Your Side. The song is very 'feeling feeling'.
BJ45 - With Sebestian away, I went to attend Angie's STC class on Sat. She was TT with Lee Tong and Shirley. I must say that this release is FANTASTIC!
I especially love the electro-rock combo. The sounds are heavy, uplifting and the moves are empowering. Enjoyed myself very much.
Guess next week I shall stick to the same routine. Two BC36 and One BJ45! =)
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Last Day
Today is my last day in more ways than one.
My training isn't officially complete, but I've cleared all my papers, met my boss for a prep-talk and tomorrow marks my first day in battlezone.
There were plenty of handshakes and well-wishes, some extremely heartfelt ones, and it was a good last lunch with some of the folks. We've made promises to gather and meet up, but I've had my fair share of experience to know that such promises usually falter and verbal commitments usually don't mean anything.
Despite saying that, I still like my training mates very much. Before my impending departure from the group, I rendered my help to a few friends and hope it will facilitate their transition earlier.
Today was also my last weekday class given that I start officially tomorrow. 406 classes and I loved every single moment of it. And this week also marks the launch of BC36.
Now, I really adore this release. Part of it is sentimental, after all I went all the way to Auckland to participate in the filming, and besides that, the tracks are really good. My top 3 favourites are T1, T4 and T8. But I'm starting to look ahead already.
Spoiler - Please skip this next para if you don't want to read about BC37...
Another Michael Jackson cover, a Matchbox 20 track (I love this one very much), 2 happy hardcore, rave tracks which got me so addicted that I'm in love with it already, and another track from an artiste which has appeared in BC36. And what's this new capoeira move that I'm hearing about...
It's been a wonderful experience conducting classes on weekdays after work as it really helps to release work frustrations. It's too bad I can't continue, I would have loved to, but all good things come to an end anyway.
These past 2 weeks have been great, many members have come up to express their appreciation and I'm glad to know that I have been able to make them happy, even if it was just for one hour or so.
I hope my new job makes me happy.
My training isn't officially complete, but I've cleared all my papers, met my boss for a prep-talk and tomorrow marks my first day in battlezone.
There were plenty of handshakes and well-wishes, some extremely heartfelt ones, and it was a good last lunch with some of the folks. We've made promises to gather and meet up, but I've had my fair share of experience to know that such promises usually falter and verbal commitments usually don't mean anything.
Despite saying that, I still like my training mates very much. Before my impending departure from the group, I rendered my help to a few friends and hope it will facilitate their transition earlier.
Today was also my last weekday class given that I start officially tomorrow. 406 classes and I loved every single moment of it. And this week also marks the launch of BC36.
Now, I really adore this release. Part of it is sentimental, after all I went all the way to Auckland to participate in the filming, and besides that, the tracks are really good. My top 3 favourites are T1, T4 and T8. But I'm starting to look ahead already.
Spoiler - Please skip this next para if you don't want to read about BC37...
Another Michael Jackson cover, a Matchbox 20 track (I love this one very much), 2 happy hardcore, rave tracks which got me so addicted that I'm in love with it already, and another track from an artiste which has appeared in BC36. And what's this new capoeira move that I'm hearing about...
It's been a wonderful experience conducting classes on weekdays after work as it really helps to release work frustrations. It's too bad I can't continue, I would have loved to, but all good things come to an end anyway.
These past 2 weeks have been great, many members have come up to express their appreciation and I'm glad to know that I have been able to make them happy, even if it was just for one hour or so.
I hope my new job makes me happy.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Ice Cold Beer
There's nothing I like more than a bottle of ice cold beer and tasty fried chicken wings. And in my opinion, one of the best places to have it is at Ice Cold Beer at Emerald Hill.
So I went there with my colleagues today. About 15 of them went, quite a good crowd but I was disappointed that two people actually pulled out at the last moment. We took some photos, but I don't think I'll post them up here haha.
The worst thing about having a nice beer and nice food (chix wings and pizza) is that I have to leave early. Damn it.
I left the folks barely an hour into drinks to head for my CSQ class. Luckily I only restricted myself to one bottle of Heineken but it's damn shiok. And the chicken wings... delicious.
Talking about the class, I think I miss conducting classes at FES alot! Especially the old power-packed Wed class. But unfortunately some things can never be salvaged. The club is gone. We just have to accept the fact. But there are some things we don't have to accept.
Today I received notification that I would be heading straight into battlezone at MT. MT, hmmm. It will be about stamina, the survival of the fittest, and endurance. I've always thought I had the stamina and endurance, it's more of whether I want to or not.
I believe people may change on the outside, but deep down inside they are still the same person. So if you understand a person, you will still understand the person many years down the road.
What annoys me sometimes is when people claim they understand me, just based on minimal interaction, or by reading my blog, or by the manner in which I conduct classes, or whatever. I think there are only 2 people who I would even consider them knowing me really well. Ironically, these 2 people are just born one day apart.
Those people who have helped me before, I will be eternally grateful for their kindness and will never forget. But for those who have harmed me before, I don't think I will never ever forgive them.
So I went there with my colleagues today. About 15 of them went, quite a good crowd but I was disappointed that two people actually pulled out at the last moment. We took some photos, but I don't think I'll post them up here haha.
The worst thing about having a nice beer and nice food (chix wings and pizza) is that I have to leave early. Damn it.
I left the folks barely an hour into drinks to head for my CSQ class. Luckily I only restricted myself to one bottle of Heineken but it's damn shiok. And the chicken wings... delicious.
Talking about the class, I think I miss conducting classes at FES alot! Especially the old power-packed Wed class. But unfortunately some things can never be salvaged. The club is gone. We just have to accept the fact. But there are some things we don't have to accept.
Today I received notification that I would be heading straight into battlezone at MT. MT, hmmm. It will be about stamina, the survival of the fittest, and endurance. I've always thought I had the stamina and endurance, it's more of whether I want to or not.
I believe people may change on the outside, but deep down inside they are still the same person. So if you understand a person, you will still understand the person many years down the road.
What annoys me sometimes is when people claim they understand me, just based on minimal interaction, or by reading my blog, or by the manner in which I conduct classes, or whatever. I think there are only 2 people who I would even consider them knowing me really well. Ironically, these 2 people are just born one day apart.
Those people who have helped me before, I will be eternally grateful for their kindness and will never forget. But for those who have harmed me before, I don't think I will never ever forgive them.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Monday, June 16, 2008
Travel Plans
Reading Lynn's latest entry about her expedition to Japan got me very very tempted. I want to go Japan again! Lynn was lamenting about going on solo travels and not having companions, but I personally feel travelling alone ain't that bad after all.
Let me recollect my solo trips.
China - biz trips to Beijing (twice), Shenyang, Shenzhen. I loved each and every trip as China is so huge and each city is so different. Great exposure for me and I didn't feel bored at all.
HK - my experience was marred by some unpleasant people and encounters. Rather not go if I have the choice. So not sure if I'll visit my sec sch best friend when he relocates there.
Europe - 'forced' to fly in to Paris 3 days earlier for compulsory travelling due to fully booked flights. I loved it. My first real experience travelling alone and it was fabulous!
US - went there to work for 2 months as a lifeguard during uni days. Banded together with other Singaporeans I didn't know and made lotsa friends from all over the world, including Lithuania and Latvia.
Japan/Korea - In Dec last year as a tour leader. Moonlighting and feeling damn shiok cos it's free.
Auckland - Global Summit and filmings. Went alone but made friends with hardcore LM fanatics all over the world.
KL/Bangkok - Quarterly workshops where I met up with the other instructors.
My take on solo travels is that it's quite good if you know how to make the best out of the situation. I can just do what I want, sightseeing, eating, shopping, etc without having to worry about others. I don't have to adhere to schedules or bear with people's temper.
I've been out of the country 5 times already this year and still counting. I don't think I'll hit double figures but I certainly foresee a couple more trips. But that irritating income tax notice of assessment just arrived and it will drain my cashflow severely as I absolutely have no intention of GIRO payment. I just want to get it out of the way ASAP.
I initially planned to go Europe with YH and KM in Oct but I told the girls to proceed with their booking as I just switched jobs and can't commit the dates. I'm secretly hoping that my 10 days compliance block leave can be taken during this period so I can join them. If not, I do have a few alternatives in mind.
1) Sydney with CTC - Been there before but if I go, it would be to visit some friends seconded there.
2) HK to visit ZW - Only thing stopping me is I don't like HK.
Knowing that my compliance leave is subject to approval, it would be more difficult to find a travel partner at late notice. So I'm not ruling out travelling alone again.
1) UK - I want to watch a Premier League match! Or even two.
2) Europe - just go there and walk around.
3) US - The USD has come down and things are cheaper now.
4) Taipei - I have not even been there before!
5) Auckland redux - Attend filmings again.
I have enough KF miles to go for most of these places so that should take care of the air tix, but that's going to make it more difficult to find a travel partner especially if they have budget constraints. And I still want to get my 25% bonus miles on SQ flights while I'm still KF Silver member so I may still pay for the tickets and then accumulate the miles. It's running out soon and my new job doesn't require me to travel.
Now if anyone wonders why I have so many miles despite not flying often, the answer is simple. I swear by my AMEX Krisflyer credit card. The miles are really quick. I've used about $15k on the card year to date so far and I'm especially eager to volunteer helping my parents book their SQ flights to get my double miles. =)
But there's a new competitor card out on the market. Citi Miles. I will apply and check that out too.
Die. I'm seriously addicted to travel!
Let me recollect my solo trips.
China - biz trips to Beijing (twice), Shenyang, Shenzhen. I loved each and every trip as China is so huge and each city is so different. Great exposure for me and I didn't feel bored at all.
HK - my experience was marred by some unpleasant people and encounters. Rather not go if I have the choice. So not sure if I'll visit my sec sch best friend when he relocates there.
Europe - 'forced' to fly in to Paris 3 days earlier for compulsory travelling due to fully booked flights. I loved it. My first real experience travelling alone and it was fabulous!
US - went there to work for 2 months as a lifeguard during uni days. Banded together with other Singaporeans I didn't know and made lotsa friends from all over the world, including Lithuania and Latvia.
Japan/Korea - In Dec last year as a tour leader. Moonlighting and feeling damn shiok cos it's free.
Auckland - Global Summit and filmings. Went alone but made friends with hardcore LM fanatics all over the world.
KL/Bangkok - Quarterly workshops where I met up with the other instructors.
My take on solo travels is that it's quite good if you know how to make the best out of the situation. I can just do what I want, sightseeing, eating, shopping, etc without having to worry about others. I don't have to adhere to schedules or bear with people's temper.
I've been out of the country 5 times already this year and still counting. I don't think I'll hit double figures but I certainly foresee a couple more trips. But that irritating income tax notice of assessment just arrived and it will drain my cashflow severely as I absolutely have no intention of GIRO payment. I just want to get it out of the way ASAP.
I initially planned to go Europe with YH and KM in Oct but I told the girls to proceed with their booking as I just switched jobs and can't commit the dates. I'm secretly hoping that my 10 days compliance block leave can be taken during this period so I can join them. If not, I do have a few alternatives in mind.
1) Sydney with CTC - Been there before but if I go, it would be to visit some friends seconded there.
2) HK to visit ZW - Only thing stopping me is I don't like HK.
Knowing that my compliance leave is subject to approval, it would be more difficult to find a travel partner at late notice. So I'm not ruling out travelling alone again.
1) UK - I want to watch a Premier League match! Or even two.
2) Europe - just go there and walk around.
3) US - The USD has come down and things are cheaper now.
4) Taipei - I have not even been there before!
5) Auckland redux - Attend filmings again.
I have enough KF miles to go for most of these places so that should take care of the air tix, but that's going to make it more difficult to find a travel partner especially if they have budget constraints. And I still want to get my 25% bonus miles on SQ flights while I'm still KF Silver member so I may still pay for the tickets and then accumulate the miles. It's running out soon and my new job doesn't require me to travel.
Now if anyone wonders why I have so many miles despite not flying often, the answer is simple. I swear by my AMEX Krisflyer credit card. The miles are really quick. I've used about $15k on the card year to date so far and I'm especially eager to volunteer helping my parents book their SQ flights to get my double miles. =)
But there's a new competitor card out on the market. Citi Miles. I will apply and check that out too.
Die. I'm seriously addicted to travel!
The Entry That Has Nothing
Blogging has always been therapeutic for me. I've always liked writing since young and I've lost count of the number of blogs I've created since my very first one back in 2003. I've always kept my thoughts to myself, so blogging is a form of release. Sometimes I also use it to jot down precious memories, things I want to remember 10, 20 years down the road. Some blogs (like this one) I write for an audience in mind, some I keep it private, for my own reading pleasure.
There was a particular one which served a greater purpose than what I had intended it to be. Cancerians remember, they always remember.
If I were more prolific, I would churn out an entry on a daily basis, but unfortunately the harsh realities of life and Euro 2008 has consumed all my precious time for blogging. I wanted to write about my Father's Day dinner on Sat. I wanted to write about going to Zouk with my new colleagues on Sat nite. I wanted to write about meeting my sec sch best friend on Sun where his last words were 'See you in HK.' when I'm not even sure if I'll ever see him again for the rest of my life.
In the end, I don't write anything at all.
There was a particular one which served a greater purpose than what I had intended it to be. Cancerians remember, they always remember.
If I were more prolific, I would churn out an entry on a daily basis, but unfortunately the harsh realities of life and Euro 2008 has consumed all my precious time for blogging. I wanted to write about my Father's Day dinner on Sat. I wanted to write about going to Zouk with my new colleagues on Sat nite. I wanted to write about meeting my sec sch best friend on Sun where his last words were 'See you in HK.' when I'm not even sure if I'll ever see him again for the rest of my life.
In the end, I don't write anything at all.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Fortune Telling
I have mentioned several times that my training mates are a wacky bunch and we have lotsa fun together. Today I did something I never did before in my entire life - I went to have my fortune told!
Our batch has been split into experienced and inexperienced tracks now. Some of us experienced folks are relaxing and enjoying our 'self-study' period before the actual exams. So yesterday, 5 of them went to see a fortune teller at Redhill during lunch.
After they came back, they shared their experiences with us and how accurate it was. For me, I just listened with an open mind and I found it really intriguing that my colleagues were raving about their little visit.
This morning, one of them wanted to go again. She didn't get her fortune told as the time wasn't right. But in the few minutes of consultation, she was 'told' that she would be packing her bags soon and flying to a place she just came back from. Prior to joining the company, she went Tokyo on a holiday. Then after the fortune telling session, she had a team meeting with her boss, and the boss told them that if they hit their sales target for Q3, they will be awarded with an incentive trip to Tokyo. So, she was a little freaked out.
I thought it sounded very interesting, and I decided to tag along today. I was a little scared at first, but in the end it turned out to be quite OK. So 3 of us headed there today to pay a visit.
The process was pretty simple. We just provide birthday and time of birth and the fortune teller would refer to her almanac and some references and start to rattle off. Then she would read my palm lines, and look at my facial features such as my nose, ears, mouth, eyes.
I was a little shocked at how accurate her readings were. I actually thought the palm lines were the most accurate ones. For all of us, it was the standard affair - career, love life, family. We don't even need to ask anything, she will just start automatically. I was surprised at how spot on she was with certain matters, and accurate to the extent where she could name me the exact month. She even told me that the next two months would be torturous for me. Why am I not surprised to hear that?
The most scary thing was when she pointed to my left arm under my long sleeved business shirt and said that there's a mole there. There was no way she could have seen it, and I came home to check and confirmed that I really do have one at where she pointed. And she did it for one of my colleagues too during yesterday's session.
I shan't reveal too much information about the other readings here, after all, it's personal!
Was nearly tempted to go sing karaoke with some of them this evening, but I thought I better stay home tonight (and be a homely crab) and type this entry for someone to read. And the someone will know I'm talking about her. No emails to read, so read blogs lor. =)
Our batch has been split into experienced and inexperienced tracks now. Some of us experienced folks are relaxing and enjoying our 'self-study' period before the actual exams. So yesterday, 5 of them went to see a fortune teller at Redhill during lunch.
After they came back, they shared their experiences with us and how accurate it was. For me, I just listened with an open mind and I found it really intriguing that my colleagues were raving about their little visit.
This morning, one of them wanted to go again. She didn't get her fortune told as the time wasn't right. But in the few minutes of consultation, she was 'told' that she would be packing her bags soon and flying to a place she just came back from. Prior to joining the company, she went Tokyo on a holiday. Then after the fortune telling session, she had a team meeting with her boss, and the boss told them that if they hit their sales target for Q3, they will be awarded with an incentive trip to Tokyo. So, she was a little freaked out.
I thought it sounded very interesting, and I decided to tag along today. I was a little scared at first, but in the end it turned out to be quite OK. So 3 of us headed there today to pay a visit.
The process was pretty simple. We just provide birthday and time of birth and the fortune teller would refer to her almanac and some references and start to rattle off. Then she would read my palm lines, and look at my facial features such as my nose, ears, mouth, eyes.
I was a little shocked at how accurate her readings were. I actually thought the palm lines were the most accurate ones. For all of us, it was the standard affair - career, love life, family. We don't even need to ask anything, she will just start automatically. I was surprised at how spot on she was with certain matters, and accurate to the extent where she could name me the exact month. She even told me that the next two months would be torturous for me. Why am I not surprised to hear that?
The most scary thing was when she pointed to my left arm under my long sleeved business shirt and said that there's a mole there. There was no way she could have seen it, and I came home to check and confirmed that I really do have one at where she pointed. And she did it for one of my colleagues too during yesterday's session.
I shan't reveal too much information about the other readings here, after all, it's personal!
Was nearly tempted to go sing karaoke with some of them this evening, but I thought I better stay home tonight (and be a homely crab) and type this entry for someone to read. And the someone will know I'm talking about her. No emails to read, so read blogs lor. =)
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Rejuvenated
This time round, it was just a simple thanks. Nothing fancy.
***********
I met up with L for dinner tonight to catch up. L is my classmate from uni days and she's one of those smart girls who graduated with first class honours. And she's hardworking too, unlike the slacker me. We had a really interesting conversation about the markets, jobs, people from our graduating batch, etc.
L just tendered from her civil service job and is now actively looking for a job in the private sector. Brave of her to do that in such turbulent times, especially when the private sector is slashing jobs like crazy and we've been hearing soundbites of retrenchment of front office staff.
L confided in me that she's feeling apprehensive about the job search ahead, but I feel that she should be patient and not devalue her working experience and 1st class honours and just settle for the first offer that comes her way.
Both of us love the markets and it's painful not to be involved in a job that follows the economy actively. But it's even more painful to be at the thick end of the action and start worrying that a fat pay cheque would no longer be sustainable because the job landscape is not as rosy as 2007.
I'm glad I'm free of financial commitments. If I had bought a car or property, I would have been cursing - oil prices have rendered driving extremely expensive, and property prices have begun their decline.
I'm still in two minds in whether to park my cash in unit trusts to capitalise on the lower prices now or whether to purchase dividend yielding stocks. 9% per annum isn't too bad at this point in time. Direct stock holdings are a little too volatile at the moment and I prefer not to take the risk right now.
L mentioned to me that I sounded extremely chirpy, must have been the effects of my new job. Personally, I do feel that my mood has been on the upward trend. It is rejuvenating hanging out with my training batch mates, most of them are still young and full of zest and all ready to go.
I'm still young but I feel old already. In my previous job, I've had to tone down and suppress my enthusiasm and try to be serious all the time in order to sound convincing in front of all my business associates. It's tough meeting all those people who are so much more experienced than me. It's enriching but it's been draining, physically, emotionally and mentally. Which is why it's refreshing watching all those training mates of mine. They really are fun people.
Movies, play pool, hang out at cafes, dinner, shopping, and they went Zouk (Mambo) last night. I would have gone if I didn't have to teach BC.
As my new colleague S told me, I've left something I don't like, don't turn back and look behind. How I agree with her.
Saying so, I'm still in my honeymoon period - the training phase. I have only 1 more paper to clear, compared to some of my colleagues, with over 10 papers left to clear. I've been procrastinating cos my boss wants me to start proper once I clear the last paper... Well, I have 2 weeks of training left, and I'm going to make the most of it.
Don't be surprised if I start complaining three weeks later. I'm a true blue Singaporean after all. =)
***********
I met up with L for dinner tonight to catch up. L is my classmate from uni days and she's one of those smart girls who graduated with first class honours. And she's hardworking too, unlike the slacker me. We had a really interesting conversation about the markets, jobs, people from our graduating batch, etc.
L just tendered from her civil service job and is now actively looking for a job in the private sector. Brave of her to do that in such turbulent times, especially when the private sector is slashing jobs like crazy and we've been hearing soundbites of retrenchment of front office staff.
L confided in me that she's feeling apprehensive about the job search ahead, but I feel that she should be patient and not devalue her working experience and 1st class honours and just settle for the first offer that comes her way.
Both of us love the markets and it's painful not to be involved in a job that follows the economy actively. But it's even more painful to be at the thick end of the action and start worrying that a fat pay cheque would no longer be sustainable because the job landscape is not as rosy as 2007.
I'm glad I'm free of financial commitments. If I had bought a car or property, I would have been cursing - oil prices have rendered driving extremely expensive, and property prices have begun their decline.
I'm still in two minds in whether to park my cash in unit trusts to capitalise on the lower prices now or whether to purchase dividend yielding stocks. 9% per annum isn't too bad at this point in time. Direct stock holdings are a little too volatile at the moment and I prefer not to take the risk right now.
L mentioned to me that I sounded extremely chirpy, must have been the effects of my new job. Personally, I do feel that my mood has been on the upward trend. It is rejuvenating hanging out with my training batch mates, most of them are still young and full of zest and all ready to go.
I'm still young but I feel old already. In my previous job, I've had to tone down and suppress my enthusiasm and try to be serious all the time in order to sound convincing in front of all my business associates. It's tough meeting all those people who are so much more experienced than me. It's enriching but it's been draining, physically, emotionally and mentally. Which is why it's refreshing watching all those training mates of mine. They really are fun people.
Movies, play pool, hang out at cafes, dinner, shopping, and they went Zouk (Mambo) last night. I would have gone if I didn't have to teach BC.
As my new colleague S told me, I've left something I don't like, don't turn back and look behind. How I agree with her.
Saying so, I'm still in my honeymoon period - the training phase. I have only 1 more paper to clear, compared to some of my colleagues, with over 10 papers left to clear. I've been procrastinating cos my boss wants me to start proper once I clear the last paper... Well, I have 2 weeks of training left, and I'm going to make the most of it.
Don't be surprised if I start complaining three weeks later. I'm a true blue Singaporean after all. =)
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Monday, June 9, 2008
Introspection
Today wasn't a particularly enjoyable day. Mentally drained from training, I opted to go Cali Orchard for 630pm BC class instead of going to any of the PF outlets. I just wanted to go somewhere where nobody knows me and I can just do my thing in peace as I wasn't in the mood to entertain anyone.
Some comments about the class. The crowd is vociferous and the atmosphere was good. The crowd didn't even need prompting before they started their holler. But somehow I didn't enjoy the class that much. Nothing with the instructor, he did a good job, but I was deprived of kicking space, I felt disinterested and the hour seemed really long.
The thing about making the transition to become an instructor is that it has taken away a lot of the fun from the original workout I love so much. Now I can have the entire space to myself, I get to do on carpet, I can choose my tracklist, and the workout is so much more intense with all the shouting I have to do... and it dilutes the ordinary experience.
I bumped into my ex-boss in the gym and had dinner with him. Basically updated each other with what's happening now. He asked me if I was still conducting classes. I hesitated on my reply in view of the impending changes, and he probed if I was shuttling between work, gym and home.
The answer was yes, but I didn't reveal that it would soon be work and home.
At that split second, I felt a little depressed. I felt that I had probably put in too much effort and time for a potential lost cause. It may be a job, a source of income to some people but for me, it was my passion, my interest and my escape from reality.
I was thinking to myself... what if I had given this all up in Jun 07? Would I be much happier now?
Just before we left, my ex-boss intimated a meeting with another ex-colleague to catch up. I was quick to reply, "I think I will be very busy with work."
He looked at me, and smiled. "You haven't changed at all."
It was short, sharp and succinct. I guess I really haven't changed at all. At least not on the inside.
"Everybody's changing and I don't feel the same."
Some comments about the class. The crowd is vociferous and the atmosphere was good. The crowd didn't even need prompting before they started their holler. But somehow I didn't enjoy the class that much. Nothing with the instructor, he did a good job, but I was deprived of kicking space, I felt disinterested and the hour seemed really long.
The thing about making the transition to become an instructor is that it has taken away a lot of the fun from the original workout I love so much. Now I can have the entire space to myself, I get to do on carpet, I can choose my tracklist, and the workout is so much more intense with all the shouting I have to do... and it dilutes the ordinary experience.
I bumped into my ex-boss in the gym and had dinner with him. Basically updated each other with what's happening now. He asked me if I was still conducting classes. I hesitated on my reply in view of the impending changes, and he probed if I was shuttling between work, gym and home.
The answer was yes, but I didn't reveal that it would soon be work and home.
At that split second, I felt a little depressed. I felt that I had probably put in too much effort and time for a potential lost cause. It may be a job, a source of income to some people but for me, it was my passion, my interest and my escape from reality.
I was thinking to myself... what if I had given this all up in Jun 07? Would I be much happier now?
Just before we left, my ex-boss intimated a meeting with another ex-colleague to catch up. I was quick to reply, "I think I will be very busy with work."
He looked at me, and smiled. "You haven't changed at all."
It was short, sharp and succinct. I guess I really haven't changed at all. At least not on the inside.
"Everybody's changing and I don't feel the same."
Monday, June 2, 2008
KL Q208 Quarterly
Yo, I'm back from KL! Actually, I was back Sun nite but I was too tired to update anything, so I thought I'll just do a quick one now, before I procrastinate further. No pics yet, as I'm too lazy to get them out of my cam, but I didn't really take many pics, especially if I'm participating in the workshop! (Maybe just one or two BJ video clips for Lynn)
It was a mad rush for me this time round. I did my usual Sat classes (STC and Parkway) before rushing home, packing my stuff, and rushing to the airport again to catch a 1940 flight via JAL. Reached there and caught up with JW and his FF instructors/friends for a short while before making my way to the hotel.
Didn't sleep that many hours, and had to wake up real early to have breakfast, and then register at 0730 in time for 0800 BODYCOMBAT.
I got my BC36 vid already, so I've been watching it conscientiously. But watching and doing is a different thing. For those of you out there who complained to me BC35 was too light, BC36 is definitely not! I was really tired after doing the class, much more so than doing it in Auckland cos there was no space to kick and move during the Global Summit.
Doing the BC36 masterclass brought back several memories, and I can still remember the goose pimples I felt when doing T4 during the filming. I bet this track will be an instant fav with the participants. It is going to be a huge one for me for sure. The MT was a killer to the butt... and I just busted my shoulders in T8, and it was even more intense in AKL when I went all the way without pacing myself cos I didn't know what to expect. Alright, enough about BC since we'll launch it pretty soon (I hope earlier than Cali and FF) and everyone can enjoy the experience.
BODYATTACK next and I participated as well even though I'm tired after BC. I find BA61 really really challenging (all those plyometric lunges, esp after BC36) and I was totally shagged out after BC/BA back to back. While I personally do not feel that much passion for BA, I do acknowledge its benefits in training stamina and endurance. Kylie Gates amazed me when she said she hasn't had a single injury from doing BA. Which brings me to the point of always doing the workouts safely and focusing on technique.
BODYSTEP was the 3rd program, and I was preparing to do like 3-4 tracks of it, cos I did the filming and I quite liked the songs. But somehow the education session was a little draggy and my mind was away on my hotel room (as I hadn't checked out yet!)
So I left the scene and went back to hotel to checkout. Luckily, I paid a bit more to enjoy more convenience, it was only 5mins walk away. After checking out, it was about 1200 and I decided that I was very hungry so I skipped the entire BS class.
After lunch, I walked around to digest a little bit and checked out the Nike store. By the time I returned back, they already set up their BODYPUMP boards and started on the warmup. I was feeling too full and too tired, so I decided to give that a miss as well. Haha. Actually I was saving my energy for BODYJAM later.
BODYVIVE next and I decided to participate in 4 tracks. Had a little fun with the Vive Ball. I'm sorry to say that I still think this program isn't suited for me, I like some of the songs, but I still think there is a target audience for this program. But I don't mind doing it once in a while when I attend quarterlies.
BODYJAM! BJ45. What's so special about this release is that BJ45 filming was the first BJ class I went in NZ since Lynn dared me to do it. The combinations were just AMAZING and AWESOME. Some memories came back to me, and I love everything about this release. I had the most fun in this program (even more than BC) and I actually perspired the most here. I must say that I'm impressed by the presenters and I really feel tempted to join the training even though I might fail.
BJ45 was hot during the Global Summit. It was the last program to be filmed and everyone was just in a party mood. What touched me was seeing Philip Mills (big boss of Les Mills) doing BJ. It's great to see him participating as it signalled that he believes in his own programs and what they are selling to the world.
The last program was BODYBALANCE 41. It was regrettable that I only managed to do 5 tracks. I had to rush off to catch my flight back to Singapore!
This trip hasn't been cheap, I think just over S$500 for 1 day of masterclasses if you just count the air tix, hotel, transport, taxis. But if I have the chance I'll do it again. I had to rush everything cos I am on training at my new job now and I can't afford to take leave at this time.
I'm aiming for Bangkok for Q3. Shall wait for the dates to come out.
Throughout the quarterly, I hardly heard "ONE TRIBE" being mentioned. It was the theme during the Global Summit and the presenters for different programs kept mentioning it. But this is not Auckland, so I guess it would have been a little difficult to use it in the right context.
BC36 cooldown has the hakka inside, but not many people would know the relevance unless they have been there for the Global Summit. How I would love to experience it again.
It was a mad rush for me this time round. I did my usual Sat classes (STC and Parkway) before rushing home, packing my stuff, and rushing to the airport again to catch a 1940 flight via JAL. Reached there and caught up with JW and his FF instructors/friends for a short while before making my way to the hotel.
Didn't sleep that many hours, and had to wake up real early to have breakfast, and then register at 0730 in time for 0800 BODYCOMBAT.
I got my BC36 vid already, so I've been watching it conscientiously. But watching and doing is a different thing. For those of you out there who complained to me BC35 was too light, BC36 is definitely not! I was really tired after doing the class, much more so than doing it in Auckland cos there was no space to kick and move during the Global Summit.
Doing the BC36 masterclass brought back several memories, and I can still remember the goose pimples I felt when doing T4 during the filming. I bet this track will be an instant fav with the participants. It is going to be a huge one for me for sure. The MT was a killer to the butt... and I just busted my shoulders in T8, and it was even more intense in AKL when I went all the way without pacing myself cos I didn't know what to expect. Alright, enough about BC since we'll launch it pretty soon (I hope earlier than Cali and FF) and everyone can enjoy the experience.
BODYATTACK next and I participated as well even though I'm tired after BC. I find BA61 really really challenging (all those plyometric lunges, esp after BC36) and I was totally shagged out after BC/BA back to back. While I personally do not feel that much passion for BA, I do acknowledge its benefits in training stamina and endurance. Kylie Gates amazed me when she said she hasn't had a single injury from doing BA. Which brings me to the point of always doing the workouts safely and focusing on technique.
BODYSTEP was the 3rd program, and I was preparing to do like 3-4 tracks of it, cos I did the filming and I quite liked the songs. But somehow the education session was a little draggy and my mind was away on my hotel room (as I hadn't checked out yet!)
So I left the scene and went back to hotel to checkout. Luckily, I paid a bit more to enjoy more convenience, it was only 5mins walk away. After checking out, it was about 1200 and I decided that I was very hungry so I skipped the entire BS class.
After lunch, I walked around to digest a little bit and checked out the Nike store. By the time I returned back, they already set up their BODYPUMP boards and started on the warmup. I was feeling too full and too tired, so I decided to give that a miss as well. Haha. Actually I was saving my energy for BODYJAM later.
BODYVIVE next and I decided to participate in 4 tracks. Had a little fun with the Vive Ball. I'm sorry to say that I still think this program isn't suited for me, I like some of the songs, but I still think there is a target audience for this program. But I don't mind doing it once in a while when I attend quarterlies.
BODYJAM! BJ45. What's so special about this release is that BJ45 filming was the first BJ class I went in NZ since Lynn dared me to do it. The combinations were just AMAZING and AWESOME. Some memories came back to me, and I love everything about this release. I had the most fun in this program (even more than BC) and I actually perspired the most here. I must say that I'm impressed by the presenters and I really feel tempted to join the training even though I might fail.
BJ45 was hot during the Global Summit. It was the last program to be filmed and everyone was just in a party mood. What touched me was seeing Philip Mills (big boss of Les Mills) doing BJ. It's great to see him participating as it signalled that he believes in his own programs and what they are selling to the world.
The last program was BODYBALANCE 41. It was regrettable that I only managed to do 5 tracks. I had to rush off to catch my flight back to Singapore!
This trip hasn't been cheap, I think just over S$500 for 1 day of masterclasses if you just count the air tix, hotel, transport, taxis. But if I have the chance I'll do it again. I had to rush everything cos I am on training at my new job now and I can't afford to take leave at this time.
I'm aiming for Bangkok for Q3. Shall wait for the dates to come out.
Throughout the quarterly, I hardly heard "ONE TRIBE" being mentioned. It was the theme during the Global Summit and the presenters for different programs kept mentioning it. But this is not Auckland, so I guess it would have been a little difficult to use it in the right context.
BC36 cooldown has the hakka inside, but not many people would know the relevance unless they have been there for the Global Summit. How I would love to experience it again.
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