Fitness classes held at foot of Sengkang block irks a resident who almost cycled into metal cage for equipment

A fitness class attended by residents has been held at the fitness corner and void decks of a couple of public housing blocks in Sengkang, which has inadvertently caused annoyance to at least one resident.

Attended by about a dozen people who work out and occupy a spot on the ground floor, the group exercises three times a week, for about two-and-a-half hours each time.

Besides occupying the open spaces, the fitness equipment used by the group are stored in a movable metal cage and left at the void deck, which apparently took up space and obstructed the path of the irked resident.

Complainant

A 46-year-old resident complained to Shin Min Daily News that he discovered that a fitness instructor has been running private lessons at the foot of Blocks 334A and 335A Anchorvale Crescent over the past two months.

The group of five to eight people grew to about 10 to 15 members, the complainant claimed.

The workout equipment stored in a movable metal cage has been left at the ground floor and has obstructed the walkway, he further claimed.

He said: "The metal cage blocked at least half of the walkway, and I almost crashed into it when I rode my bicycle past it."

On rainy days, the group would exercise under the void deck instead.

The complainant raised the matter to the town council twice and was told it would be raised with the fitness instructor.

Response from instructor

In response to the accusations, the 43-year-old fitness instructor said he moved to the estate in 2023 and started fitness classes in March 2024.

He explained that the classes were held at the fitness corner where the cushioned flooring helps absorb the noise made from weightlifting and also ensure the safety of the participants.

He also clarified that the fitness corner is still open to the public even when his lessons are held.

Responding to the claim that the metal equipment cage is an obstruction to the public, the fitness instructor, who has been offering free fitness classes for nearly 20 years before this, explained: "When we exercise downstairs at the block, we make sure that the public has space to move around and it doesn't block anyone's way."

He also confirmed that the town council had contacted him, informed him of noise complaints, as well as reminded him to instruct his members to be mindful of others during their activities.

He expressed understanding, but said, "We haven't broken the law. I feel wronged."

Other residents interviewed said they were glad to see activities held in the neighbourhood as they aid in community cohesion.

Other activities currently offered include in-line skating, as well as samba classes.

Top photos via Shin Min Daily News