Response to The Straits Times Forum Letter on "Training info at fitness corners"

Comprehensive information on fitness training for our NSmen

We thank Mr Derek Foo for his forum letter, "Training info at fitness corners" on 26 Jun 2012 and his suggestion of providing poster-size training guides at fitness corners in parks and stadiums.

We agree with Mr Foo that proper understanding of training methods will help our NSmen to train more effectively and safely for their IPPT requirements. At present, fitness instructors are at hand to explain the training methodology behind each IPPT test station during Remedial Training (RT) or IPPT Preparatory Training (IPT) at the various Fitness Conditioning Centres. Lessons on proper nutrition and safe training methods are also shared with our servicemen.

For NSmen who prefer to train on their own, we have built 108 fitness corners across Singapore as part of the IPPT-in-your-community initiative. The Army will look into Mr Foo's suggestion of providing training aids to guide the users at these fitness corners. Following suggestions by some NSmen, we have also recently launched a multi-function fitness mobile application "MyIPPT". The application will help NSmen manage their IPPT, IPT and RT bookings, as well as track their personal fitness activities. Apple iPhone users can download the application free of charge and the Android version will be launched later this year. All NSmen are encouraged to utilise this application and they can find out more details by accessing the NS Portal (www.ns.sg) under the FitnessXchange link.

Brigadier-General Perry Lim
Commander 3rd Division / Director NS Affairs

MINDEF's reply was published as "Army looking into providing training guides at fitness corners", The Straits Times, 29 Jun 12