As an Expat, sport is something that if you don't already have in your life, you should probably find a way to integrate it. Setting aside all of the obvious health benefits for now, there are several ways that involvement in sport can make not only your integration into a new society easier and much more fun, but also the duration of your stay. Providing an instant social network, escape from work life and, by default, exercise.
I don't want to make this post just about 'team sports' as not everyone made a smooth transition from the 'A team' at school to National level. Harbouring a never wavering passion for some form of chasing/hitting/catching varying forms of ball with a significant level of skill (Beer pong does not count). Yes there are many people who have maintained an interest in a team sport- and for those there are countless clubs in Singapore which I will come onto in a minute, however I also want to reassure those of you (us) who don't play a team sport that there are still plenty of options, you just need to know a) where to look and b) have the motivation to get off your arse and go and do them (I say this from experience because trust me, I know how tempting it can be to stay on the sofa, in the Aircon, watching programmes with no justification as all TV is on demand, thus in essence, cannot be missed)
So where to look?
Work
Local Gyms
Online
Word. Of. Mouth
If you don't have a particular calling a great first stop is often office activities. OK so you may not fancy going and getting sweaty in your spandex with your colleagues, but don't forget that many corporate sports events, be it a fun run, football game, badminton tournament or tug-of-war often provide refreshments/hospitality afterwards, so arrive with the safety network of colleagues, but also open doors to like minded people who you otherwise may not meet. "Sorry for the ball in the face" is always a great Ice breaker.
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| John from IT's time to shine |
I have the benefit of working for a large company so these sporting tirades are frequent and popular. However for those of you working in smaller companies, or not working whilst in Singapore- there are many other options, those of you who have been reading will be familiar with my recent Yoga exploits (HERE), however one of my first ports of call was finding a gym with a great class time table. This is something I have valued in several places I have lived as a method of making friends and also just "getting out the house" I am a bit of a gym bunny, but as much as I love my me time on the treadmill, and cheesy tunes whilst cross training- its not exactly a social gateway.
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| Lonely morning gym sesh |
For anyone who works in the CBD, I would reccomend 'California Fitness' gym in Republic Plaza 2, It has an excellent and diverse class timetable and membership is very good at $80 a month, all classes included. It doesn't matter what level you are, its on the office doorstep, its busy, and it will give you some time to unwind and interact after a busy day in the office, before you've made the epic error of sitting on the sofa, from which you will NEVER move. See Website and class options HERE.
Online
I suppose this is applicable for those of you who are either interested in taking up a team sport, or are looking for a team to get involved with. There is a huge variety of Sport, in Singapore especially, to get involved with its just a case of having a look online. And remember most people have been in the 'newbee' position at some point, so in General people are very welcoming. Sports available include:
Tennis
Hockey
Rugby
Netball
Golf
Football
Dragon Boat Racing
Sailing
Cycling
Cricket
Basketball
Baseball
American Football
Aussie Rules
The options are endless, there are several good hints and tips for expats on how to get involved in any of these sports Here.
Granted, all of these options take either commitment or minor research, but if you are lucky enough to know people who are involved in sport already and invite you along, my advice would be on par with Nike's "Just do it". Whats the worst that can happen- you decide you don't want to go back? At least you've given it a go, met some new faces, earned an extra few calories for the day, and potentially if it all goes horribly wrong- earned yourself a good story to dine out on for the next few weeks.
So dust off your trainers, put on your short shorts and get involved... and be wary of where you go for a sports massage afterwards...
Speak Soon
XXX
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