Ever wonder how the human body can be so strong that it can lift a 50kg bulky box onto its shoulders, or throw someone larger than you in an intense wrestling match? Physical: Asia, the new season from the popular Netflix hit Physical:100, brings together athletes from eight Asian countries to compete in a series of extreme physical challenges for a grand prize of 1 billion South Korean won and the glory of representing their nation.
If you’ve watched the show, you might notice that most contestants come from sports that involve fighting or intense strength training. This raises the question: how can we train to become like them in Singapore, and where should we begin?
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CrossFit
If you’re an avid fan of Physical:100, you’ll notice some familiar faces appearing in the new season of Physical: Asia. One of them is Amotti, the winner of Season 2 and a well-known CrossFitter.
CrossFit is a fitness program that focuses on high-intensity functional movements, combining elements of weightlifting, gymnastics, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). In Singapore, there are many CrossFit-certified gyms located conveniently around town, making it the perfect after-work exercise option. Some popular ones you can check out include:
- RAGTAG Training: 141 Cecil St, #01-01 Tung Ann Association Building, Singapore 069541
- Mobilus Chinatown: 90, Block C Eu Tong Sen St, #01-11, Singapore 059811
- CrossFit Unit: 1 Stadium Pl, #02-05 Wave Mall, Singapore 397628 (Kallang Wave Mall)
MMA
MMA, also known as mixed martial arts, is a full-contact sport where competitors use various combat skills such as striking and grappling. If you grew up watching WWE or any wrestling match, many of those fighters are MMA-trained.
MMA fighters are known for their strength, aggression, and competitive nature, making them perfect candidates for Physical: Asia. In Singapore, Evolve MMA stands out as the leading academy for mixed martial arts. You can find classes in Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Boxing, Wrestling, and Kickboxing, all taught by world champions who specialise in their respective disciplines.
Beyond competitive martial arts, Evolve MMA also offers self-defense training, an essential skill for anyone, regardless of fitness level.
- Evolve MMA: Multiple outlets across Singapore
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Muay Thai / Boxing
Muay Thai and Boxing are among the most popular combat sports loved by many Singaporeans. They are also popular choices for adults looking to pick up a new hobby or skill. In Physical: Asia, you can spot one of Thailand’s most celebrated Muay Thai and kickboxing champions, Superbon Singha Mawynn.
This season also features boxing legend Manny Pacquiao from the Philippines. Regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time, he joins the show to demonstrate the strength, speed, and agility of elite boxers.
Whether you prefer Muay Thai or Boxing, Singapore has many excellent gyms offering professional training in both sports.
Boxing
- Spartans Boxing Club: Multiple locations across Singapore
- The Ring: 1 Claymore Drive, #01-01A, Singapore 229594
Muay Thai
- Rebel Muay Thai Boxing Gym: 40A Lor Mambong, Singapore 277695
- Lionheart MMA: 75 South Bridge Road, 2nd Floor, Singapore 058705
- Common Man Fight Club: 8 Woodlands Square, Solo 2, #04-31 Woods Square, Singapore 737713 (Woods Square Mall)
Most of these gyms offer both traditional boxing and Muay Thai, so you can try both before deciding which sport suits you best.
Judo
The art of Judo never fails to amaze. This sport is not only competitive but also an excellent self-defense skill, especially for women. Originating from Japan, Judo is a gentle yet powerful martial art that emphasises technique and flexibility over brute strength. It involves grappling, throwing techniques, and pins.
The idea behind Judo is to overcome an opponent who may be larger or stronger by using their force against them. This makes it ideal for smaller but mighty individuals who want to prove that strength is not just about size; a perfect reflection of what contestants showcase in Physical: Asia.
Some popular Judo studios in Singapore that offer adult beginner classes include:
- The Dojo Singapore: 865 Mountbatten Rd, Singapore 437844 (Katong Shopping Centre)
- Singapore Judo Club (affordable option): 570 Havelock Rd, Singapore 169640 (Kim Seng Community Centre)
- SA Judo Academy: Multiple outlets across Singapore
Calisthenics
In every team, there always seems to be a “strong man,” someone who can lift and carry weights nearly double their own. To become strong as an individual, you must first learn to carry your own weight. This starts with mastering the basics such as pull-ups and push-ups.
Calisthenics takes these movements to the next level. While it still relies on your own body weight and gravity as resistance, the exercises become increasingly challenging as your strength and control improve.
Once you are comfortable moving your body with ease and stability, you can begin to add extra resistance using ankle or wrist weights. From there, you can progress into bodybuilding exercises that help you lift weights beyond your own body weight.
Being part of a supportive calisthenics community can make your training more enjoyable and motivating as you work toward becoming stronger than ever. Here are some gyms worth checking out:
- Singapore Calisthenics Academy: 11 Collyer Quay, Level 20, Singapore 049317 (The Arcade)
- The Faculty of Calisthenics: 777 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198745
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Physical: Asia may be inspiring, but building a strong body takes hard work and dedication. No matter your age, you can always start small. What truly matters is staying consistent and disciplined.
We believe the human body is far stronger than most people realise, and it all begins with the right mindset. Do you believe you can do it?