01 August, 2007

Trainers conduct workshop for fitness professionals

This article was published in the Metro Section of the Star newspaper on (28 July 2007) so I thought I'd put a copy up here before its lost to the archives.

weiloon@thestar.com.my


LOCAL fitness professionals and buffs were given the opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade from two master fitness trainers - Robert Sherman and Abbie Appel - from the Reebok University based in the United States recently.

They were in town for the two-day Reebok Resolution Asia Premier Fitness Certification Tour.

Sherman said their role was to impart knowledge on the latest techniques and equipment to boost the local instructors' level of fitness education and arm the professionals with the skills to train their clients better.

“We are impressed with the high level of energy displayed by the participants. And they certainly have the desire to improve. Their willingness to learn indicates that they are passionate about their profession,” he added.

Energetic: Participants in action during the training programme using resistance bands.

Sherman, who has been in the industry for more than 20 years said the growth segments in the trade were on personal, yoga and strength training.

Meanwhile, Appel said she was delighted with the participants' excitement in accepting new ideas in her debut appearance here.

“I specialise in stability ball workouts that engage the core muscles to work inside out. I also choreograph dance movements and incorporate sports drills in my fitness programmes,” she said.

Malaysia's master trainer Irene Lee was also present.

The three led the eager participants through various vigorous physical regimes.

Besides Malaysia, the workshop was also held in Hong Kong, Korea, India, Indonesia and Thailand this season.

Show of strength: Appel (front) and Sherman at the workshop.

“The workshop has been a regular feature in our calendar. We have been hosting this event in Malaysia for about 10 years,” said RSH (M) Sdn Bhd advertising and promotions manager Jay Mee Chuah, adding that the event drew about 50 participants.

As the climax to the two-day event, the participants took part in the Reebok Rhythm Challenge conducted by Lee.

The contestants were evaluated based on their flair, speed, endurance, physical condition, control, execution, energy and attire throughout the one-hour Hi/Low aerobic master class.

The top three winners received prizes worth RM2,300.

The best dressed female and male participants also took home RM500 worth of prizes each.

The event's co-sponsor included 100-Plus, Aster Spring, Brand's, Dermalogica, GNC, Gym and Care, Nestle, Pathlab and TruDtox.

Other partners were Maskulin, Nona, Rapi and Shape.


From Left: Irene Lee, Robert Sherman, Abbie Appel and finally, me! :D



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