In response to my previous post, all I can say is I bought a continental car and not a Japanese car (which my colleagues and even myself thought I'll be getting). There's a little bit of impulse factored into it. I don't think many people would have guessed anyway.
Sometimes I am concerned about recession and downturn, at the same time, I also feel that the best time to spend money is during recession, not only do you get to boost the economy, but your dollar stretches further because things are cheaper and going for discounts.
For instance, my BC coursemate (now conducting classes at FF) told me that 5 of them will be making their way down to Auckland for the May filmings. Found out from him that they got a real steal.
Air tix - $1,114 (SQ 2 to go, or make it 5 to go)
Accomodation - $266
Total works out to be $1,380 for a week's trip and an experience of a lifetime, and on Singapore Airlines, would you believe it. I say its worth it. Even the accomodation they chose is not some shady and dodgy place, but a very classy and upmarket area, which I stayed at during my first visit to Auckland. (www.latitude37.co.nz)
NZ being in recession has caused the NZD to plunge, so it's really a good time to use this opportunity to go before the NZD recovers.(no offence to any kiwis reading this, just speaking from our local perspective for forex here) If we really make a trip once in a lifetime, why not go when NZD is cheap? When it recovers, it will be so much more expensive for us.
Not only that, global downturn probably caused SQ to drop its fares, and which is why I managed to use my miles to redeem for biz class, something which I'm sure I won't be able to do in good times.
I know I'm just finding reasons and excuses for my spending, but I feel that I've been relatively prudent compared to my peers/colleagues during the good times, so it's my time to help boost the economy now.
I don't believe in catching the bottom, but I do believe in bargains when I see one.
In the meantime, I am looking forward to this trip, maybe with a few of us from Singapore there, we can even do some dress code or something.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Brand New Toy
I bought myself a new car over the weekend. I deliberated about writing it here, but now I guess it shouldn't matter who's reading and who's not. The process of buying my new toy kept me busy for the past 2-3 weeks - doing research, visiting car showrooms during weekends, especially Sundays when I'm not conducting classes.
I've been thinking of buying a car for a few months now, so I'm glad I took the plunge over the weekend, which basically removed the agony of oscillating between the decision to get one or not. And because I was already mentally prepared to buy one, I reckoned the best time to buy it is during depressed COE prices, like right now.
I know all the cons of owning a car, in particular a brand new one. It's expensive, the first owner takes a heavy hit on depreciation, prices could potentially fall further on downturn, and I haven't even started on expenses like petrol, parking, ERP, road tax, maintenance. It's not cheap.
But I just couldn't wait.
The decision wasn't easy. I am concerned about the downturn, and also thinking about parental approval and opinions of others.
When I was young, I did have problems breaking to my parents about certain extravagant purchases and spendings, but now that I work and earn my own money, they don't interfere so much. They still add their 2-cents but to no avail. At work, there's a certain 'invisible' (or maybe self-imagined) pressure about what kind of car one should be driving, and my boss will surely chip in with some comments.
And no, I did not buy my dream car.
My dream car (right now for my age) is the Audi A4. I prefer it over the similar range Mercedes C-class and BMW 3-series and other entry level luxury cars. No proper reason for doing so, except that I love the exterior, the interior and it was just love at first sight when I went to the showroom. I think it's classy, elegant, and most importantly, not a common sight on the road.
Despite my colleagues stirring me big time and my boss asking me to get it, I managed to control myself because the retail price of S$139,000 is no joke. I'm not even sure if my job is secure, so I'd rather not be dragged down by a hefty liability and a loan to finance. I went for something more affordable, so that I still have my dream to aspire, an opportunity to upgrade.
In the weeks leading up to my big purchase, I didn't even look at the car that I bought eventually. Everything just transpired real quick. After class on Sat, I went to Leng Kee/Alexandra to take a look. I saw this model which I haven't really noticed before. Looking at it further got me interested and I enquired about the price. As I took the conversation to the next level, the sales exec suggested a test drive. During the test drive, I liked what I experienced and as they say, the rest is history.
I paid a $5,000 deposit on the spot and from then on, I have been super excited and I am now eagerly waiting for my car to come (subject to successful COE bidding).
When I returned to work, my colleagues continued to stir me. They've been stirring me to get one every single day, so much so that even when I bump into my boss at the gents, the one thing he asks 'when are you buying a car?' rather than my work.
So I broke the news to them. After I told my boss, he gave his stamp of approval. He commented that my car has a 'good engine' but that I am 'very uncle'! To a certain extent it's true with regards to my choice of car and colour, but I don't really want to buy a flashy sports car or a coupe/cabriolet. In fact, I don't even fancy a hatchback. I just feel that it's not me. Anyway, I don't care since I'm the one driving it and seeing it everyday.
My boss has a mantra which sort of resonates in me. I think I concur, but having someone verbalise it simply reaffirms my views.
1) If you don't spend money, money won't come in.
2) Spending money has a psychological effect.
If I apply it in my context, it is certainly true. After that huge purchase, I feel extremely motivated to earn it all back to patch that hole in my pocket. And also, the psychological effect of being able to earn your own money and spend it. Spending money is definitely as therapeutic as blogging, if not more.
That was the personal ambition I was talking about. I've fulfilled it, I am so looking forward to it.
Next up, I guess I can use my ride to start scouring for potential property bargains. I am of the view that property prices will come down for the next 2-3 years and I want to be involved this time round when the property market recovers.
I've been thinking of buying a car for a few months now, so I'm glad I took the plunge over the weekend, which basically removed the agony of oscillating between the decision to get one or not. And because I was already mentally prepared to buy one, I reckoned the best time to buy it is during depressed COE prices, like right now.
I know all the cons of owning a car, in particular a brand new one. It's expensive, the first owner takes a heavy hit on depreciation, prices could potentially fall further on downturn, and I haven't even started on expenses like petrol, parking, ERP, road tax, maintenance. It's not cheap.
But I just couldn't wait.
The decision wasn't easy. I am concerned about the downturn, and also thinking about parental approval and opinions of others.
When I was young, I did have problems breaking to my parents about certain extravagant purchases and spendings, but now that I work and earn my own money, they don't interfere so much. They still add their 2-cents but to no avail. At work, there's a certain 'invisible' (or maybe self-imagined) pressure about what kind of car one should be driving, and my boss will surely chip in with some comments.
And no, I did not buy my dream car.
My dream car (right now for my age) is the Audi A4. I prefer it over the similar range Mercedes C-class and BMW 3-series and other entry level luxury cars. No proper reason for doing so, except that I love the exterior, the interior and it was just love at first sight when I went to the showroom. I think it's classy, elegant, and most importantly, not a common sight on the road.
Despite my colleagues stirring me big time and my boss asking me to get it, I managed to control myself because the retail price of S$139,000 is no joke. I'm not even sure if my job is secure, so I'd rather not be dragged down by a hefty liability and a loan to finance. I went for something more affordable, so that I still have my dream to aspire, an opportunity to upgrade.
In the weeks leading up to my big purchase, I didn't even look at the car that I bought eventually. Everything just transpired real quick. After class on Sat, I went to Leng Kee/Alexandra to take a look. I saw this model which I haven't really noticed before. Looking at it further got me interested and I enquired about the price. As I took the conversation to the next level, the sales exec suggested a test drive. During the test drive, I liked what I experienced and as they say, the rest is history.
I paid a $5,000 deposit on the spot and from then on, I have been super excited and I am now eagerly waiting for my car to come (subject to successful COE bidding).
When I returned to work, my colleagues continued to stir me. They've been stirring me to get one every single day, so much so that even when I bump into my boss at the gents, the one thing he asks 'when are you buying a car?' rather than my work.
So I broke the news to them. After I told my boss, he gave his stamp of approval. He commented that my car has a 'good engine' but that I am 'very uncle'! To a certain extent it's true with regards to my choice of car and colour, but I don't really want to buy a flashy sports car or a coupe/cabriolet. In fact, I don't even fancy a hatchback. I just feel that it's not me. Anyway, I don't care since I'm the one driving it and seeing it everyday.
My boss has a mantra which sort of resonates in me. I think I concur, but having someone verbalise it simply reaffirms my views.
1) If you don't spend money, money won't come in.
2) Spending money has a psychological effect.
If I apply it in my context, it is certainly true. After that huge purchase, I feel extremely motivated to earn it all back to patch that hole in my pocket. And also, the psychological effect of being able to earn your own money and spend it. Spending money is definitely as therapeutic as blogging, if not more.
That was the personal ambition I was talking about. I've fulfilled it, I am so looking forward to it.
Next up, I guess I can use my ride to start scouring for potential property bargains. I am of the view that property prices will come down for the next 2-3 years and I want to be involved this time round when the property market recovers.
Monday, February 23, 2009
It's Been A While
I've been busy, real real busy. I've fulfilled a personal ambition of mine that will take up most of my time for the next few months. It is something that I've always wanted and I guess not having that Sunday class certainly freed up some of that time to do something for myself.
Life is all about experiences. It was the right time, the right occasion, and most importantly the right feeling. I've always relied on my gut feeling, and it has served me well all these years. I think I will always remember this Saturday afternoon.
I was at Suntec City Sunday morning, not at the gym, but at the SA Tours travel fair. Seeing the crowd makes you wonder if there really is a recession going on. Well, lotsa funny things happened, we made a decision, and I will be sponsoring my parents to a Europe trip in June. (Guess I have to start finding covers in advance.)
With only 2 months out of 12 down, that should mark the end of my capex for 2009 (I hope). I seriously did not anticipate that I would agree to go on a holiday so soon after planning my NZ trip.
That's all for my life right now, I'm a bit reluctant to write more because I recently noticed that this blog is attracting international visitors (via LM and BC) so it's unfair even to myself to write so much and allow unwarranted criticism because this blog hardly paints a picture of who I am.
Gym wise, nothing really much to say, except that I'm really enjoying my classes now and I do feel like a weekend warrior every Saturday.
BC39 is coming soon, I've watched the video, I saw myself in it (back view) and I love the release. I think you guys will love it too. And I will strive my best to present the tracks in a way that everyone will love it.
But then again, everyone knows I always try my best to do that.
Life is all about experiences. It was the right time, the right occasion, and most importantly the right feeling. I've always relied on my gut feeling, and it has served me well all these years. I think I will always remember this Saturday afternoon.
I was at Suntec City Sunday morning, not at the gym, but at the SA Tours travel fair. Seeing the crowd makes you wonder if there really is a recession going on. Well, lotsa funny things happened, we made a decision, and I will be sponsoring my parents to a Europe trip in June. (Guess I have to start finding covers in advance.)
With only 2 months out of 12 down, that should mark the end of my capex for 2009 (I hope). I seriously did not anticipate that I would agree to go on a holiday so soon after planning my NZ trip.
That's all for my life right now, I'm a bit reluctant to write more because I recently noticed that this blog is attracting international visitors (via LM and BC) so it's unfair even to myself to write so much and allow unwarranted criticism because this blog hardly paints a picture of who I am.
Gym wise, nothing really much to say, except that I'm really enjoying my classes now and I do feel like a weekend warrior every Saturday.
BC39 is coming soon, I've watched the video, I saw myself in it (back view) and I love the release. I think you guys will love it too. And I will strive my best to present the tracks in a way that everyone will love it.
But then again, everyone knows I always try my best to do that.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Too Many Things, Too Little Time
Just back from HK over the weekend, and I'm super duper tired right now. For a start, I did miss my 'me' time, and being in HK with around 40 people I know, that hardly constitutes 'me' time. I usually catch up on sleep during weekends so I'm a little deprived right now.
I should be sleeping now, but blogging is just therapeutic, so I just want to write my thoughts away. It's moments like these when I feel there's too many things and too little time.
Just a little NZ trip had me running around, settling on air tix/hotel bookings and I haven't even applied for leave yet.
Not to mention the little planned BKK getaway for the quarterly in Feb/Mar. Leave was all approved but waiting for all the 'erm i'm interested but let me think about it' really spoilt everything. Missed the cutoff date, and I haven't ordered my DVD packs yet so everything's in a mess. I can deal with mess of the physical kind, my room and office desk is a complete mess but I hate my life being in a mess. Unfortunately there's too many such things happening. And worst of all, this gym stuff is just a supplementary thing! It's not supposed to cause so much mayhem!
Now I've decided to call the whole thing off cos I may need to cancel my leave (sian 1/2) and also because my colleagues are thinking of BKK getaway during Good Friday weekend too.
In a way I am kinda glad I don't teach on Sundays. I do enjoy taking the class (thanks everyone who came and supported me that early on a Sunday morning, I appreciated it) but I do need the time to do my own things.
There's a big ticket item I'm looking at and I haven't even had the time to go look for it. At least I need to spend some time looking at it before I decide if I want to take the plunge. There are stocks I want to buy but I haven't had the time to look. Got people asking me to joint invest property, but I haven't had the time.
I've cut down on weekdays gym totally except for Monday, and I wonder where the rest of my weekdays go. Catching up on US markets in the late evenings, as if I haven't been looking at markets enough during the day. I'm fortunate enough to have a good memory BC for choreo so I don't have to spend that much time revising on my BC tracks for my weekend classes. That saves me a lot of time. Can't imagine having to spend time learning all that choreo.
In my relentless pursuit for career progression and monetary rewards, I sometimes wonder what I have compromised. Have I sacrificed time with people, with people I genuinely care about? Have I become a corporate slave?
I wish I had more time. And more sleep.
I should be sleeping now, but blogging is just therapeutic, so I just want to write my thoughts away. It's moments like these when I feel there's too many things and too little time.
Just a little NZ trip had me running around, settling on air tix/hotel bookings and I haven't even applied for leave yet.
Not to mention the little planned BKK getaway for the quarterly in Feb/Mar. Leave was all approved but waiting for all the 'erm i'm interested but let me think about it' really spoilt everything. Missed the cutoff date, and I haven't ordered my DVD packs yet so everything's in a mess. I can deal with mess of the physical kind, my room and office desk is a complete mess but I hate my life being in a mess. Unfortunately there's too many such things happening. And worst of all, this gym stuff is just a supplementary thing! It's not supposed to cause so much mayhem!
Now I've decided to call the whole thing off cos I may need to cancel my leave (sian 1/2) and also because my colleagues are thinking of BKK getaway during Good Friday weekend too.
In a way I am kinda glad I don't teach on Sundays. I do enjoy taking the class (thanks everyone who came and supported me that early on a Sunday morning, I appreciated it) but I do need the time to do my own things.
There's a big ticket item I'm looking at and I haven't even had the time to go look for it. At least I need to spend some time looking at it before I decide if I want to take the plunge. There are stocks I want to buy but I haven't had the time to look. Got people asking me to joint invest property, but I haven't had the time.
I've cut down on weekdays gym totally except for Monday, and I wonder where the rest of my weekdays go. Catching up on US markets in the late evenings, as if I haven't been looking at markets enough during the day. I'm fortunate enough to have a good memory BC for choreo so I don't have to spend that much time revising on my BC tracks for my weekend classes. That saves me a lot of time. Can't imagine having to spend time learning all that choreo.
In my relentless pursuit for career progression and monetary rewards, I sometimes wonder what I have compromised. Have I sacrificed time with people, with people I genuinely care about? Have I become a corporate slave?
I wish I had more time. And more sleep.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Mai Tu Liao
Mai Tu Liao - For the non-Singaporeans, it means "don't drag any further" and it probably describes my feelings right now.
I have just booked my flights to Auckland for the May filming using my KF miles. Guess the redemption discount is simply too good to resist. When it comes to booking trips, I think I tend to follow my heart more. I'm the impulsive and impatient sort, so I guess I just had to do it.
Now I feel happy. I have something to look forward to. I still have lotsa NZD at home from the last trip so I don't think I have to fork out much for this trip.
When it comes to travelling, one thing that annoys me is waiting for people to reply and give you an affirmative answer. I don't understand why people can't say YES or NO. What's the big deal? If you can't make it because of $ concerns, or leave not approved, just say NO. Rather than leave others hanging there and waiting for your reply.
This time round, no such thing. No asking and no waiting for the half-interested fellow when you know they wouldn't tkae the plunge. And I am even pampering myself. I redeemed Business Class for the SIN-AKL leg haha. Would have done so for the return leg if there were seats available. My current job doesn't require me to go for biz trips nowadays so I am going to miss the experience. And it would be insane to pay for biz class fares. So best way to do enjoy it is to redeem miles. The difference between Economy and Biz? ~13,000 miles. Why not?
I'll be away in HK tmr so I'll catch you guys in class next week. Cheers.
I have just booked my flights to Auckland for the May filming using my KF miles. Guess the redemption discount is simply too good to resist. When it comes to booking trips, I think I tend to follow my heart more. I'm the impulsive and impatient sort, so I guess I just had to do it.
Now I feel happy. I have something to look forward to. I still have lotsa NZD at home from the last trip so I don't think I have to fork out much for this trip.
When it comes to travelling, one thing that annoys me is waiting for people to reply and give you an affirmative answer. I don't understand why people can't say YES or NO. What's the big deal? If you can't make it because of $ concerns, or leave not approved, just say NO. Rather than leave others hanging there and waiting for your reply.
This time round, no such thing. No asking and no waiting for the half-interested fellow when you know they wouldn't tkae the plunge. And I am even pampering myself. I redeemed Business Class for the SIN-AKL leg haha. Would have done so for the return leg if there were seats available. My current job doesn't require me to go for biz trips nowadays so I am going to miss the experience. And it would be insane to pay for biz class fares. So best way to do enjoy it is to redeem miles. The difference between Economy and Biz? ~13,000 miles. Why not?
I'll be away in HK tmr so I'll catch you guys in class next week. Cheers.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Hmmm...
OMG.
Just after posting that utterly sour entry about not being able to experience the filming, guess what I received in my mailbox.
" Celebrate KrisFlyer’s 10th Anniversary!
This month marks the start of celebrations for our 10th Anniversary, with exclusive redemption promotions and some very special offers from our partners. Click on the links below or here to find out more"
To cut a long story short, Krisflyer is offering a 25% discount on miles redemption for flights, and 50% discount on selected flights. To cut a short story shorter, Auckland is one of the destinations for the 50% discount!
Check out the offer below... (Click the pic for full screen or go to to this link
http://www.singaporeair.com/saa/en_UK/content/krisflyer/redeem_miles/KFAnniversaryRedemption.jsp)
Check out the dates, random for May filmings, and the miles required. The usual is 55,000. So 27,500 is 50%!
That means I've actually got enough miles to go on 4 return trips if it's on a 50% discount perpetually. But what a coincidence Auckland is eligible for 50% in May. So should I go?
Some friends have questioned why sometimes I insist on paying slightly more expensive fares to accumulate miles. This is my justification. My last Auckland trip, I paid full fare and earned 13,068 miles.
27,500 miles isn't too difficult to accumulate.
Sign up for AMEX Krisflyer card - 5,000 miles
Sign up for Citi PremierMiles card - 5,000 miles
Renew your PremierMiles annual subscription at $180 - 10,000 miles.
Not to mention the miscellaneous spending and accumulating miles... you get my drift.
I really hope I get to make full use of this opportunity. Shall await LM reply on May filming schedule and then it's off to check work schedule. If things fall in place, I think I shan't wait. With the NZD low now, it looks like my trip could be cheaper than budgeted. Anyone else interested haha?
Wish me luck!
Just after posting that utterly sour entry about not being able to experience the filming, guess what I received in my mailbox.
" Celebrate KrisFlyer’s 10th Anniversary!
This month marks the start of celebrations for our 10th Anniversary, with exclusive redemption promotions and some very special offers from our partners. Click on the links below or here to find out more"
To cut a long story short, Krisflyer is offering a 25% discount on miles redemption for flights, and 50% discount on selected flights. To cut a short story shorter, Auckland is one of the destinations for the 50% discount!
Check out the offer below... (Click the pic for full screen or go to to this link
http://www.singaporeair.com/saa/en_UK/content/krisflyer/redeem_miles/KFAnniversaryRedemption.jsp)
Check out the dates, random for May filmings, and the miles required. The usual is 55,000. So 27,500 is 50%!
That means I've actually got enough miles to go on 4 return trips if it's on a 50% discount perpetually. But what a coincidence Auckland is eligible for 50% in May. So should I go?
Some friends have questioned why sometimes I insist on paying slightly more expensive fares to accumulate miles. This is my justification. My last Auckland trip, I paid full fare and earned 13,068 miles.
27,500 miles isn't too difficult to accumulate.
Sign up for AMEX Krisflyer card - 5,000 miles
Sign up for Citi PremierMiles card - 5,000 miles
Renew your PremierMiles annual subscription at $180 - 10,000 miles.
Not to mention the miscellaneous spending and accumulating miles... you get my drift.
I really hope I get to make full use of this opportunity. Shall await LM reply on May filming schedule and then it's off to check work schedule. If things fall in place, I think I shan't wait. With the NZD low now, it looks like my trip could be cheaper than budgeted. Anyone else interested haha?
Wish me luck!
Utterly Envious
I'm not a person who gets jealous or envious easily, but let's just say I'm totally 'sour' right now!
For those of you in the know, BC40 was filmed on Monday night in Auckland. With a release every 3 months, we get 4 releases a year, that means Bodycombat celebrated it's 10th year anniversary.
How time flies, and I must say that BC is one of the programs that has witnessed the most transitions and controversies ever among all the LM programs.
I'm so envious of the people that managed to take part in the filming! I was just chatting to Jitsuko, my BC coursemate, who flew all the way from Japan to Auckland. I also found out that Toshie and some instructors/members from Cali Singapore went there as well. The atmosphere, according to Jitsuko, was electrifying. I can imagine it, 40 releases, 10th year anniversary, I'm sure it must be.
I've said this many times, I'll say it again. Only those who have been to Auckland will know what it's like behind the scenes and experience first hand the passion of so many instructors/participants around the world. So to all you LM junkies out there, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Auckland now!
I would have loved to go there for BC40 filming, but Auckland is not exactly like Malaysia or Thailand where I can probably go anytime. First of all, it's not exactly cheap. Air tix are about $2,000 and we haven't even thrown in accomodation/expenses. Secondly, it's not easy to take a 5-7 days off work. And my opportunity cost for work is actually higher now. One less day of work means less money.
Furthermore, I used my year end 10-day compliance leave to go for BC39 filming, so it's a bit extravagant to go so soon, having gone twice in 2008 (BC36 and BC39). And also, now recession lah.
Btw, I forgot to mention that NZD is real cheap now. It's trading at NZDSGD ~0.7650 now, so SGD is way stronger at the moment. It will not be as expensive as I went the first time round (Feb 2008) when I changed my NZD at 1.16!!!!!!
What's there to look forward to in BC40? Well, I don't know myself since I didn't experience it first hand and I am not the sort to pretend like I know what it's all about. Let those who have experienced the magic share it with us.
Reading what all those people have to say about filming sends the heart tingling again. How I long to be there again. I do have another 10-day compliance leave to take again this year, and I can almost guarantee that I will make a trip there this year since all my long distance travel kakis (Europe, US) have all shelved their travel plans due to recession.
May looks to be out for me, so I'm looking at August and November filmings. Anyone interested can give me a shout. I'm looking to form a Singapore contingent. Got potentially 3 interested parties for August.
If you're interested, budget around S$3,000, maybe less depending on which airline, accomodation, and your sightseeing needs. But from personal experience, if you are a true blue LM junkie, you'll probably be spending most of your time attending all the LM classes at the gym and going for D&R combat so as to familiarise yourself in the new release and not embarrass yourself during filming. =)
For those of you in the know, BC40 was filmed on Monday night in Auckland. With a release every 3 months, we get 4 releases a year, that means Bodycombat celebrated it's 10th year anniversary.
How time flies, and I must say that BC is one of the programs that has witnessed the most transitions and controversies ever among all the LM programs.
I'm so envious of the people that managed to take part in the filming! I was just chatting to Jitsuko, my BC coursemate, who flew all the way from Japan to Auckland. I also found out that Toshie and some instructors/members from Cali Singapore went there as well. The atmosphere, according to Jitsuko, was electrifying. I can imagine it, 40 releases, 10th year anniversary, I'm sure it must be.
I've said this many times, I'll say it again. Only those who have been to Auckland will know what it's like behind the scenes and experience first hand the passion of so many instructors/participants around the world. So to all you LM junkies out there, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Auckland now!
I would have loved to go there for BC40 filming, but Auckland is not exactly like Malaysia or Thailand where I can probably go anytime. First of all, it's not exactly cheap. Air tix are about $2,000 and we haven't even thrown in accomodation/expenses. Secondly, it's not easy to take a 5-7 days off work. And my opportunity cost for work is actually higher now. One less day of work means less money.
Furthermore, I used my year end 10-day compliance leave to go for BC39 filming, so it's a bit extravagant to go so soon, having gone twice in 2008 (BC36 and BC39). And also, now recession lah.
Btw, I forgot to mention that NZD is real cheap now. It's trading at NZDSGD ~0.7650 now, so SGD is way stronger at the moment. It will not be as expensive as I went the first time round (Feb 2008) when I changed my NZD at 1.16!!!!!!
What's there to look forward to in BC40? Well, I don't know myself since I didn't experience it first hand and I am not the sort to pretend like I know what it's all about. Let those who have experienced the magic share it with us.
Reading what all those people have to say about filming sends the heart tingling again. How I long to be there again. I do have another 10-day compliance leave to take again this year, and I can almost guarantee that I will make a trip there this year since all my long distance travel kakis (Europe, US) have all shelved their travel plans due to recession.
May looks to be out for me, so I'm looking at August and November filmings. Anyone interested can give me a shout. I'm looking to form a Singapore contingent. Got potentially 3 interested parties for August.
If you're interested, budget around S$3,000, maybe less depending on which airline, accomodation, and your sightseeing needs. But from personal experience, if you are a true blue LM junkie, you'll probably be spending most of your time attending all the LM classes at the gym and going for D&R combat so as to familiarise yourself in the new release and not embarrass yourself during filming. =)
Sunday, February 1, 2009
BC39 Preview
Ok, 60mins before Liverpool play Chelsea. I still have some time to burn so I shall write a little preview on BC39. For those who hate spoilers, pls DO NOT READ.
Based on the sizzler, we know the focus for BC39 is on 'combos' - which are slightly longer than usual, and also for this release, it's totally back to basics. No propulsive moves like the ESK or jump knees, and no capoeira movements - ginga, ESK, esquiva.
What we have is potentially my favourite MT (T7) and Power 3 (T8) of all time. If you ask me how good I rate this release... let's just say the overhyped 'So What' by Pink is perhaps my least favourite track of the release.
Warm Up - The One & Only/Calling All Lovers
Perfectionists, pls don't complain that upper body warm up has uneven sets on both sides. Let's just get real and understand the constraints they have in remixing the music. (Hint: The left side uppercuts and hooks have fewer sets so we can't be lazy and just repeat) Nothing special about this warm up, perhaps singing "I am the one and only" during the jab, step back sequence. Lower body (Hint: There are 5 roundhouses, can you fit it into the music?)
Combat 1 - Cum On Feel The Noize
I remember when doing this track for the first time, I was thinking this must be a Group X version. True enough. There are 2 major combos to remember, with a little interval. The interval will be hard to cue - block, turn and kick sequence. And remember moves like 'cross jab cross' and 'stomach head stomach'
Power 1 - Come With Me
This track presented by the guest presenter Vanessa is super fun. I was enjoying myself throughout. Just remember double uppers, jab cross, double jabs and scissors. Oops, did I give away too much?
Combat 2 - Jump That Rock
Unmistakenably Scooter. This track rocks, and it will rock your legs! Lotsa knees and a side kick to the front... And I'm glad we don't have the two-songs for this release, but this track is equally tough on the legs I feel.
Power 2 - Johnny Be Goode
6 sets of the same combo - jab jab cross. Lotsa power squats here, and watch out of the single CROSS part. It's super fun. Definitely good track selection. A few excellent track 5s they have been having recently.
Combat 3 - So What
During the official filming, they changed the choreo at the last minute. Instead of double upper, double hook, 4 front kicks, they changed the 4 front kicks to 'back kick, knee, knee, front kick'. It's something unique but workout wise, I felt that 4 front kicks was tougher. And we see the cross hand squat similar to 'Cold As Ice'. Ok lah, song still nice.
Muay Thai - Hardcore Angel
I think the music did it for me. And this track left me breathless. Watch out for the stinger at the end. It ain't over till it's over! Look out for the step over cross. Enjoy doing treble elbows at the whistle. I have a hard time deciding if this or Power 3 is my favourite track of the release.
Power 3 - Cry For You
Love, love, love this track to bits. Your shoulders will cry at the 'three jabs to the side, 2 hooks' combo, all using the same arm repeated several times. And while doing it, listening to the voice singing 'forever, and ever..' and you'll be asking if this track lasts forever? Because it never seems to end.
Conditioning - I Won't Be Crying
Lotsa core strength needed, and I think half the time I was trying to prevent myself from getting all those carpet burns. They hurt.
Cool Down - It's All Coming Back To Me Now
Lovely song but katas I had a hard time following.
That's all from me now. Looking forward to the new release! I can't wait!!!!
Based on the sizzler, we know the focus for BC39 is on 'combos' - which are slightly longer than usual, and also for this release, it's totally back to basics. No propulsive moves like the ESK or jump knees, and no capoeira movements - ginga, ESK, esquiva.
What we have is potentially my favourite MT (T7) and Power 3 (T8) of all time. If you ask me how good I rate this release... let's just say the overhyped 'So What' by Pink is perhaps my least favourite track of the release.
Warm Up - The One & Only/Calling All Lovers
Perfectionists, pls don't complain that upper body warm up has uneven sets on both sides. Let's just get real and understand the constraints they have in remixing the music. (Hint: The left side uppercuts and hooks have fewer sets so we can't be lazy and just repeat) Nothing special about this warm up, perhaps singing "I am the one and only" during the jab, step back sequence. Lower body (Hint: There are 5 roundhouses, can you fit it into the music?)
Combat 1 - Cum On Feel The Noize
I remember when doing this track for the first time, I was thinking this must be a Group X version. True enough. There are 2 major combos to remember, with a little interval. The interval will be hard to cue - block, turn and kick sequence. And remember moves like 'cross jab cross' and 'stomach head stomach'
Power 1 - Come With Me
This track presented by the guest presenter Vanessa is super fun. I was enjoying myself throughout. Just remember double uppers, jab cross, double jabs and scissors. Oops, did I give away too much?
Combat 2 - Jump That Rock
Unmistakenably Scooter. This track rocks, and it will rock your legs! Lotsa knees and a side kick to the front... And I'm glad we don't have the two-songs for this release, but this track is equally tough on the legs I feel.
Power 2 - Johnny Be Goode
6 sets of the same combo - jab jab cross. Lotsa power squats here, and watch out of the single CROSS part. It's super fun. Definitely good track selection. A few excellent track 5s they have been having recently.
Combat 3 - So What
During the official filming, they changed the choreo at the last minute. Instead of double upper, double hook, 4 front kicks, they changed the 4 front kicks to 'back kick, knee, knee, front kick'. It's something unique but workout wise, I felt that 4 front kicks was tougher. And we see the cross hand squat similar to 'Cold As Ice'. Ok lah, song still nice.
Muay Thai - Hardcore Angel
I think the music did it for me. And this track left me breathless. Watch out for the stinger at the end. It ain't over till it's over! Look out for the step over cross. Enjoy doing treble elbows at the whistle. I have a hard time deciding if this or Power 3 is my favourite track of the release.
Power 3 - Cry For You
Love, love, love this track to bits. Your shoulders will cry at the 'three jabs to the side, 2 hooks' combo, all using the same arm repeated several times. And while doing it, listening to the voice singing 'forever, and ever..' and you'll be asking if this track lasts forever? Because it never seems to end.
Conditioning - I Won't Be Crying
Lotsa core strength needed, and I think half the time I was trying to prevent myself from getting all those carpet burns. They hurt.
Cool Down - It's All Coming Back To Me Now
Lovely song but katas I had a hard time following.
That's all from me now. Looking forward to the new release! I can't wait!!!!
BC38 Review
90 mins before Liverpool play Chelsea so I thought I'll make full use of the time and write a review about BC38 from an instructor perspective.
I've read LM forums and seen many instructors criticising BC38. I personally feel many of the criticisms are unwarranted and unjustified. Honestly speaking, how can one judge whether a track is good or not without doing it proper? I know there are some in Singapore who are guilty of that too.
As for me, I prefer to make my assessment post-launch and after teaching it for a few classes, and NOT after watching the DVD. Combatters, if you have done the tracks, then perhaps you will be able to relate with what I write.
Warm Up - Writing On The Wall/Because The Night
Warm ups are usually simple and the only thing you can judge is perhaps the music. For me the music is alright, the choreo is simple. Though there are many better ones, this one is definitely very do-able. 7/10 for upper and 8/10 for lower.
Combat 1 - Try It Again
When watching the DVD and listening to the music, I thought this might be a bit draggy, but after doing it, I really love this track and getting people to say 'Try It Again'. It's one of those songs that grow on you. And I actually think the combo fits in nicely with the song lyrics... "up and down and a roundhouse kick!" 9/10
Power 1 - Like I Feel
The music for this track is alright, the challenge is really on the high knee runs. One of those techo songs that can't go wrong for a Power track, but I must say this track lacks the impact of those Power tracks in the 20s releases. The last few Power 1 tracks have all been similar. But rest assured BC3903 will definitely be better. 8/10
Combat 2 - Headbangers Rock Da Club/Cold As Ice
Watching the DVD, I really really liked this track. After teaching the class, I still like this track for the choreo, but I've come to the conclusion I don't like this format, where they put 2 tracks into 1 - similar to BC37. This track definitely works the legs a whole damn lot, but I'm starting to find the music boring. Bring on Scooter for the next release! 7/10 for both.
Power 2 - The Best Damn Thing
Ok, I know this sounds a little biased, but this is the best damn track of the release! Maybe it's because I like Avril Lavigne, maybe it's because I think this track is corny at times but don't you all love the song? I do! The choreo works very well and I do have a lot of members avoiding eye contact with me when performing the A-V-R-I-L letters. 10/10.
Combat 3 - No Good
The more I do this track, the more I like it. If you do it correctly, you will feel the BURN in your legs. I sure did. Like what was said in the DVD - recovery for your lungs but not for your legs. This track is physically demanding for an instructor to teach with all the esquivas. 9/10
Muay Thai - Raver's Paradise
Sorry folks, this one didn't do for me. 4 different blocks of choreo, all random, fit into one song. It felt like bits and pieces without any pattern. But I guarantee all of you, you will like BC39's Muay Thai over this. The BC39 MT is unbelieveably high. It could be one of my fav MTs of all time. I can't wait. 6/10
Combat 3 - What Hurts The Most
This track also aced it for me. Lovely song, simple combo but definitely effective. Couldn't have asked for more. 9/10
Conditioning - When I Grow Up
This track is a killer for the arms. The push up combination is tough. Super tough. The only thing - I'm not a fan of Pussycat Dolls. 7/10
Cool Down - All I Need
I love this song, though it's a tad short for the cooldown. But then again, the entire release is over 56mins, so we definitely can't have a 5 min cooldown. Good enough for me. 8/10
I've read LM forums and seen many instructors criticising BC38. I personally feel many of the criticisms are unwarranted and unjustified. Honestly speaking, how can one judge whether a track is good or not without doing it proper? I know there are some in Singapore who are guilty of that too.
As for me, I prefer to make my assessment post-launch and after teaching it for a few classes, and NOT after watching the DVD. Combatters, if you have done the tracks, then perhaps you will be able to relate with what I write.
Warm Up - Writing On The Wall/Because The Night
Warm ups are usually simple and the only thing you can judge is perhaps the music. For me the music is alright, the choreo is simple. Though there are many better ones, this one is definitely very do-able. 7/10 for upper and 8/10 for lower.
Combat 1 - Try It Again
When watching the DVD and listening to the music, I thought this might be a bit draggy, but after doing it, I really love this track and getting people to say 'Try It Again'. It's one of those songs that grow on you. And I actually think the combo fits in nicely with the song lyrics... "up and down and a roundhouse kick!" 9/10
Power 1 - Like I Feel
The music for this track is alright, the challenge is really on the high knee runs. One of those techo songs that can't go wrong for a Power track, but I must say this track lacks the impact of those Power tracks in the 20s releases. The last few Power 1 tracks have all been similar. But rest assured BC3903 will definitely be better. 8/10
Combat 2 - Headbangers Rock Da Club/Cold As Ice
Watching the DVD, I really really liked this track. After teaching the class, I still like this track for the choreo, but I've come to the conclusion I don't like this format, where they put 2 tracks into 1 - similar to BC37. This track definitely works the legs a whole damn lot, but I'm starting to find the music boring. Bring on Scooter for the next release! 7/10 for both.
Power 2 - The Best Damn Thing
Ok, I know this sounds a little biased, but this is the best damn track of the release! Maybe it's because I like Avril Lavigne, maybe it's because I think this track is corny at times but don't you all love the song? I do! The choreo works very well and I do have a lot of members avoiding eye contact with me when performing the A-V-R-I-L letters. 10/10.
Combat 3 - No Good
The more I do this track, the more I like it. If you do it correctly, you will feel the BURN in your legs. I sure did. Like what was said in the DVD - recovery for your lungs but not for your legs. This track is physically demanding for an instructor to teach with all the esquivas. 9/10
Muay Thai - Raver's Paradise
Sorry folks, this one didn't do for me. 4 different blocks of choreo, all random, fit into one song. It felt like bits and pieces without any pattern. But I guarantee all of you, you will like BC39's Muay Thai over this. The BC39 MT is unbelieveably high. It could be one of my fav MTs of all time. I can't wait. 6/10
Combat 3 - What Hurts The Most
This track also aced it for me. Lovely song, simple combo but definitely effective. Couldn't have asked for more. 9/10
Conditioning - When I Grow Up
This track is a killer for the arms. The push up combination is tough. Super tough. The only thing - I'm not a fan of Pussycat Dolls. 7/10
Cool Down - All I Need
I love this song, though it's a tad short for the cooldown. But then again, the entire release is over 56mins, so we definitely can't have a 5 min cooldown. Good enough for me. 8/10
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