NEW TRAINING SCHEME HELPS NSMEN GET FIT

Third Sergeant (3SG) (NS) Paviter Singh has little time for exercise.

He has yet to pass his annual Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT), but he is working hard to clear the test.

The 30-year-old teacher has been enjoying the benefits of IPPT Preparatory Training (IPT), a new scheme designed to improve the overall health and fitness of Operationally-Ready National Servicemen (NSmen).

It was launched by Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen on 26 Oct at Bedok Camp, one of only two Fitness Conditioning Centres that conduct the five-week programme.

Not only does the IPT help NSmen to better their performance at each of the five IPPT stations, it also provides them with expert coaching from fitness specialists and goal-driven practice, as well as supervised workouts in well-equipped gyms.

"The instructors are very helpful," said 3SG (NS) Paviter, who liked the personal attention afforded in the small group sizes. "They give you advice on how you can improve on your weak areas, and you can apply their tips when you train alone on other occasions."

Unlike his past experiences with Remedial Training (RT) - an eight-week regime that is a must for NSmen who cannot clear the IPPT within a year - he looked forward to the IPT and felt fitter after completing the training.

"I used to take more than 15 minutes to finish the 2.4-km run," he said. "My timing is now one and a half minutes faster, so I'm near the passing mark."

Since June this year, more than 450 NSmen have signed up for the IPT, which is voluntary and comprises 10 three-hour workouts. Bookings can be made online via www.ns.sg.

NSmen who take the IPPT during the eighth session will be excused from RT, even if they fail the test.

Dr Ng noted that the IPT is beneficial for NSmen who find it difficult to pass the IPPT because of the pressures of work and family.
"So far, the results have been encouraging," said Dr Ng. "I think it'll be good for their health and their fitness."

Corporal (CPL) (NS) Ng Ko-Vin, who had been studying abroad for the past five years, found the IPT useful in training for chin-ups and the 2.4-km run, his weakest stations in the IPPT.

"The instructors teach stretching exercises for the arms and legs that really help to loosen the muscles before each session," said the 26-year-old shipping executive.

"Furthermore, running with a group of NSmen motivates me more than just running alone in my neighbourhood."

The IPT is also held at Khatib Camp and will be organised in other Fitness Conditioning Centres if the demand for the programme increases.

For more information on IPT, log on to www.ns.sg.

3SG (NS) Paviter Singh appreciates the professional coaching provided in IPT, which he has recommended to his friends.

26 Oct 06 - Programme to Help NSmen Prepare for IPPT