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Hot, hot, hot: The instructors doing a Latin hip hop performance. |
STATUESQUE Amber Chia enjoys a good workout despite the heavy perspiration because she feels fitter and energised after each session.
“It's important to have a nice body in my line of work. But working out has also boosted my confidence, reduced my back pain (from yoga and Pilates classes), and allowed me to meet new friends,” said the Celebrity Fitness and Adidas by Stella McCartney ambassador.
Chia goes to the gym two to three times a week, and does either a two-hour yoga and gym workout or one-hour gym workout, depending on how much time she has.
“Whenever I go to the gym, it feels like I'm going to a dance class and meeting up with friends. I enjoy going to it because of its lifestyle element, facilities and trainers who motivate me.
“I've tried all the classes including karate, salsa and hip hop, but I enjoy yoga the most,” said the model.
Chia's collaboration with Celebrity Fitness began in 2004 when she took up Celebrity Fitness regional marketing and promotions manager Hendra Nugraha's challenge to undergo its six-month celebrity programme.
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In the air: A demonstration of capoeira - an Afro-Brazilian blend of martial art, game and dance. |
“She was too skinny then and we asked her to join the fitness programme to get into shape. Besides working with a personal trainer, she was also advised on her diet and how to take care of her health, even when she's travelling,” said Nugraha.
“The programme led to her being our ambassador. She has done a great job in creating awareness for Celebrity Fitness and being its spokesperson for two years, and we're excited to extend her contract for another two years.”
Chia, Nugraha and Celebrity Fitness managing director Choi Kwangho were among the personalities at a party held to celebrate the first year anniversary of Celebrity Fitness' Bangsar Village II club.
A group of celebrities like Stephanie Chai, Hannah Lo, Soong Ai Ling, Daphne Iking, Jehan Miskin, Ida Nerina, Hannah Tan, Betty Banafe, Jay Menon, Owen Yap, Andrew Westwood, Chelsia Ng, Tony Eusoff and Azizan Nin attended the party.
The event's programme featured a line-up of performances by Celebrity Fitness instructors, CHARM Cheerleading, Anne Musikschule Performing Arts Centre, Ferhad, Suki, Dina and other artists, as well as a fashion show by Mooks.
There was also a lucky draw session where lucky guests won prizes like hotel stays, MP3 players and handphones.
“We launched the club a year ago in the hope of providing the community a place where they can exercise, socialise, shop and dine, like a one-stop centre. We also provide members with other facilities like steam, sauna and shower rooms,” said Choi.
He said that they have major expansion plans in the coming years with the opening of new clubs at various locations, based on research and market survey.
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Figures to die for: Models Hannah Lo (left) and Stephanie Chai. |
“We're opening two clubs in 2008 – one in downtown KLCC; the other 15 minutes away from KLCC – and another two next year in Klang and Cheras.
“Besides the eight new clubs we'll be opening in Malaysia (mainly in the Klang Valley) over the next four years, we've also identified more locations in South East Asia, East Europe and the Middle East.
