4 perfectly rated muay thai boxing gyms in Singapore to try a hand at martial arts

muay thai training

If you’re looking to improve your fitness and learn self-defense, Muay Thai offers quite a workout.

Known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” this traditional Thai martial art combines striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins.

With various well-rated Muay Thai boxing gyms across Singapore catering to all skill levels, it’s your chance to try a hand at martial arts.

The Jungle MMA

Website: thejungle.asia

Google Rating: 5 (110+ reviews)

Address: 35 Boat Quay, Singapore 049824

The Jungle MMA was voted the best Muay Thai gym in 2021 by Avenue One magazine.

Under the tutelage of coaches, you will hone techniques and discipline in a supportive team environment because, at The Jungle, everyone is a family working towards a common goal: releasing their inner fighter.

Conveniently planted in the heart of Raffles Place, even the busiest corporate warriors can swing by for training.

And their starter pack makes it a no-brainer to test the waters first.

For $38, you will get two classes to experience the community vibes.

View the full price list here: app.glofox.com/memberships

Nine Blades Muay Thai

Website: ninebladesmuaythai.com

Google Rating: 5 (100+ reviews)

Address: 14 Robinson Rd, #13-00 Far East Finance Building, Singapore 048545

No gimmicks. No distractions.

Just pure, sweat-drenching Muay Thai training to transform your body and mindset.

At Nine Blades, they take a straightforward approach: you show up, you work hard, you get results.

In their studio smack in the city center, a team of instructors will push you to your limits with each knee strike and elbow jam.

It’s intense. It’s challenging.

But that’s precisely what makes Muay Thai training so rewarding and addictive.

From unlimited monthly packages to casual drop-in sessions (from $38 per 45-minute session), they will help you kick your conditioning into overdrive.

Their training rates are listed on their homepage: ninebladesmuaythai.com

Rebel Muay Thai Boxing Gym

 

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Website: rebelgym.sg

Google Rating: 5 (100+ reviews)

Address: 40A Lor Mambong, Singapore 277695

Get in the ring with a real fight community at Rebel Muay Thai Boxing Gym.

Their focus is on a steady diet of partner drills and pad work.

You will sweat alongside fellow fighters who quickly become friends united by the thrill of combat sports.

Low-intensity sparring sessions, meanwhile, allow you to hone fluid technique at a controlled pace so skills progress swiftly yet safely.

With classes capped at a small size, expert coaching guarantees every individual receives the attention needed.

With trial sessions starting at just $20, it’s time to lace up your gloves.

Check their schedule and rates here: rebelgym.sg/schedule-rates

Six Sigma Female Muay Thai Gym

Website: sixsigmagym.com

Google Rating: 5 (40+ reviews)

Address: 225 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427488

Feeling self-conscious?

Kick insecurity to the curb with this Muay Thai gym created exclusively for women.

With Six Sigma Female Muay Thai Gym, you will swap self-doubt for self-confidence in a space built on zero judgments, all support.

Led by a head coach sporting 14 years of passion and 6 years of pro-amateur fight experience, you’re learning from the best.

Six Sigma represents 99.9967% dedication to lean training that forges your fitness path through encouragement, not intimidation.

Here, losing weight and gaining strength is approached with balance, not an all-or-nothing mindset so you can leave the pressures of perfection at the gym door.

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How to Save Money for Your Valentine’s Date

This Valentine’s Day marks my third one with my husband as a married couple. We’ve never been the type to splurge on overpriced flowers or chocolates as the price tags are just too outrageous! But just because February 14th can be expensive doesn’t mean you have to splurge to make it special.

If you’re looking to celebrate on a budget, consider swapping extravagant gifts for thoughtful, homemade surprises. A cozy date night at home can be just as romantic as a fancy dinner out. That said, if there’s a restaurant you’ve been dying to try, Valentine’s Day could be the perfect excuse to finally check it off your list.

#1: THINK ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP STAGE

Before planning your celebration, think about where you and your partner stand in your relationship. If this is your first Valentine’s Day together, a conservative budget like $50 or less might be a good starting point.

While spending more doesn’t necessarily equate to deeper feelings, starting with a smaller gesture can help set realistic expectations and avoid going overboard too soon.

#2: DISCUSS YOUR BUDGET

No one wants an awkward moment when exchanging gifts and realizing one of you went all out while the other kept it simple. To avoid mismatched expectations, have an open conversation about spending limits beforehand.

Being upfront about what you can afford is key for Valentine’s Day and for future milestones like birthdays, holidays, and weddings (if things go the distance).

#3: CELEBRATE AT HOME

A home-cooked meal can be just as romantic than dining at a fancy restaurant. Whether you cook together or surprise your partner with a special dish, staying in allows you to enjoy an intimate evening without the hefty price tag.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

And don’t feel pressured to whip up an extravagant feast. Even a simple charcuterie board, complete with cheese, cured meats, and fruit, can feel elegant when paired with candlelight, rose petals, and a glass of bubbly.

#4: GIVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL

A meaningful gift doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Instead of pricey jewelry or gourmet chocolates, consider an experience you can enjoy together like visiting a museum, creating perfume, or attending a local theater production.

Or, go the DIY route. A handwritten love letter, homemade cookies, or a framed poem can feel far more special than anything store-bought.

#5: USE YOUR CREDIT CARD POINTS

If you’ve been racking up credit card points, now might be the time to put them to use! Many people let rewards go unused, but redeeming them for a discounted dinner, a fun activity, or even a future getaway can be a smart way to celebrate without dipping into your budget.

IN A NUTSHELL

Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about showing your love and appreciation in a meaningful way. With a little creativity and planning, you can create a memorable celebration without the expensive price tag.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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The Psychology Behind Lusting for Luxury

Luxury has long been associated with exclusivity, craftsmanship, and status. But beyond the gleam of designer handbags and the allure of high-end skincare lies a deeper psychological pull.

Why do we crave luxury? Let’s break it down.

#1: BECAUSE YOU DESERVE IT

In a world where burnout is practically a badge of honor, luxury becomes a form of self-care. With constant stress, low wages, and an endless stream of bad news, splurging on something expensive can feel like a well-earned escape.

This phenomenon, known as hedonic consumption, explains why people turn to luxury goods as a way to soothe themselves. It’s that fleeting moment of indulgence where owning a designer piece makes you feel like a celebrity, even for just a second.

Admit it, we’ve all justified a splurge by telling ourselves: “Money will come back. I deserve this.”

#2: KEEPING UP WITH SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media has turned luxury into a never-ending trend cycle. One minute, it’s a Bottega Veneta bag; the next, it’s the latest “It” shoe. Don’t get me started with watches! With influencers flaunting high-end hauls and celebrities celebrating milestones with designer splurges, it’s easy to feel like luxury isn’t just a want.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok fuel this culture with hashtags like #TreatYourself and aspirational content featuring curated skincare routines, extravagant “galentines,” and designer-filled shopping sprees. The message? Indulgence is essential to self-care.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#3: LUXURY IS THERAPY

Luxury shopping isn’t always about status as it’s often about emotional regulation. Research by Selin Atalay and Margaret Meloy (2011) found that people in a negative emotional state are more likely to splurge on luxury goods, hoping to boost their mood.

But here’s the catch: while shopping might offer temporary relief, the guilt that follows can sometimes outweigh the initial excitement. Harri T. Luomala’s study (2002) found that excessive spending can ruin an already content state of mind, making it a double-edged sword.

#4: IRRATIONALITY OF LUXURY

Luxury shopping isn’t always rational. A well-made, durable handbag can cost around S$100, yet many willingly drop thousands on a designer version that serves the exact same purpose.

Why? Behavioral psychology suggests that luxury purchases often stem from an emotional rather than logical place. It’s about perceived value, exclusivity, and the status attached to the brand (sometimes more than the actual product itself).

#5: LUXURY AS SOCIAL CURRENCY

Luxury is often more than craftsmanship and quality—it’s a status symbol. Many people buy designer items not just for their design but for the brand’s logo, a clear signal of wealth and success.

The downside? Some stretch their finances thin to keep up with the illusion, falling into debt just to own a coveted piece. Luxury can be aspirational, but for some, it becomes a financial trap.

#6: NEED FOR UNIQUENESS

At its core, luxury is about exclusivity. Being able to afford it already puts you in a minority, making it feel even more special.

Wealthier consumers often gravitate towards brands that exude authenticity and timelessness, reinforcing the idea that true luxury is about more than just a price tag.

IN A NUTSHELL

While there’s nothing wrong with indulging, understanding why we crave these things can help us make more mindful, guilt-free choices. So the next time you feel the urge to splurge, ask yourself: Is it about the product, or the feeling it gives you?

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Sources: 1,2,&  3

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Master a New Language Without Breaking the Bank

Learning a new language doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, I am currently learning the Korean language with my last class being scheduled today. While premium apps, private tutors, and immersion trips are great, they’re not the only ways to become fluent.

Whether you’re picking up Spanish, French, or Korean, here are some budget-friendly strategies to help you master a new language without emptying your wallet.

#1: FREE LANGUAGE APPS

There’s no shortage of free apps to help you learn a language at your own pace. Duolingo, Memrise, and Clozemaster offer interactive exercises, vocabulary drills, and gamified lessons—all for free!

Want something more structured? The free version of Anki lets you create personalized flashcards to reinforce learning.

#2: YOUTUBE UNIVERSITY

Forget expensive courses as YouTube is a goldmine of language-learning resources. Channels like “Learn French with Alexa” or “Spanish with Paul” offer free lessons for beginners to advanced learners.

The best part? You can rewind, slow down, or replay tricky sections until you nail the pronunciation.

#3: PODCASTS AND AUDIOBOOKS

Turn your daily commute or workout into a language lesson with free podcasts. “Coffee Break Languages” and “Duolingo Podcast” provide engaging and practical lessons.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you love stories, try listening to audiobooks in your target language. Start with children’s books for simple vocabulary and work your way up.

#4: LANGUAGE EXCHANGE

Who needs pricey tutors when you can swap skills for free? Apps like Tandem, HelloTalk, or Speaky connect you with native speakers who want to learn your language. It’s a win-win: you teach them, they teach you, and you both improve for free!

#5: LIBRARIES

Local libraries often have free language books, audiobooks, and even access to digital learning platforms. Don’t overlook free government and university websites as many offer full language courses at no cost.

#6: SPEAK IT EVERY DAY

Practice speaking as much as possible. Narrate your daily routine, describe objects around you, or even talk to yourself in the mirror. If you’re too shy, voice message yourself or use AI chatbots designed for language learners.

#7: WRITE IT DOWN

Journaling in your target language is a great way to reinforce what you’ve learned. Start with a simple sentence each day and gradually add more detail. Not sure if your grammar is correct? Use free tools like Grammarly or LanguageTool to check your work.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

IN A NUTSHELL

Fluency doesn’t require a fortune. Instead, it needs consistency, creativity, and smart use of free resources. With these budget-friendly methods, you’ll be chatting like a native in no time!

So, what language are you learning next?

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5 top-rated culinary schools to enroll yourself in if you’re serious about improving your cooking skills in 2025

people slicing vegetables

Want to pick up some cooking skills this year?

While we’re well into February, it’s still a pretty ‘new year’ so it’s not too late to start!

If you’re serious about improving your cooking skills in 2025, we’ve got a quick list of culinary schools to intro you to.

Let’s dive straight in, shall we?

Commune Kitchen

 

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Website: communekitchen.com

Google Rating: 5 (1.2K+ reviews)

Address: 182 Cecil St, #02-10/11 Frasers Tower, Singapore 069547 (Located in Frasers Tower)

First up, foodies, home cooks, and culinary novices, your kitchen odyssey awaits at Commune Kitchen.

Leave those online recipes behind and get hands-first into a cooking adventure guided by pro chefs.

From hawker stall favorites ($165 including lunch) to Chinese wok masterclasses ($165 & includes a lunch of your wok creations), Commune’s diverse class menu reads like a world tour for the taste buds.

Seasoned foodies or ladle-clutching newbies are all welcome!

ANATTA Culinary Academy

Website: anattaca.sg

Google Rating: 5 (90+ reviews)

Address: 130 Neil Rd, Level 1, Singapore 088859

Ever wished you could bake some Peranakan kuehs or season some savory Korean banchans (side dishes)?

Well, wish no more because ANATTA Culinary Academy’s class offerings let you journey through the fragrant spices of Southeast Asia to the precision of French patisserie.

Led by experienced instructors, you will pick up classic skills in baking and cooking while experimenting with health-conscious recipes that redefine what it means to eat well.

The academy also hosts parent-child courses and only kids’ classes.

Food Playground

 

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Website: foodplayground.com.sg

Google Rating: 4.9 (3.7K+ reviews)

Address: 24A Sago St, Singapore 059020

At Food Playground, their signature Cultural Cooking Class doesn’t simply teach recipes; it invites you to experience culinary traditions firsthand, from spices of Nyonya Laksa to the palm sugar-sweetened bliss of Sago Gula Melaka.

Whether you prefer the convenience of online instruction or the energy of an in-person workshop, Food Playground’s expert instructors will guide you on your chef journey.

Let’s Yori – Korean Cooking Studio

Website: yori.sg

Google Rating: 4.9 (950+ reviews)

Address: 6a Shenton Way Downtown Gallery, #03-02, Singapore 068815 (Located in OUE Downtown 1)

Craving Korean fried chicken or yearning to master kimchi-making?

Look no further than Let’s Yori (“yori” means cook in Korean), where Chef Miyoun Kim shares Korean cooking techniques refined through her years in the hospitality industry.

In her hands-on classes, you will learn recipes like Korean fried chicken, tofu kimchi stew, and even kimchi-making to ferment your own napa cabbage and cucumber varieties.

Classes start from $90.

Grà Baking Academy

Website: grabakingacademy.com

Google Rating: 4.9 (900+ reviews)

Address: 401 MacPherson Rd, #02-11/12/13 MacPherson Mall, Singapore 368125

Last but not least, if you’ve dreamed of creating flaky croissants that would make a Parisian swoon or pulling golden-crusted loaves of bread from the oven with aromas filling the whole house, visit Grà Baking Academy.

Since 2010, their instructors have shared the secrets to baking mastery, teaching aspiring dessert artists to craft sweet treats.

Their range of WSQ-certified courses offers the option to tap SkillsFuture Credits, while trial classes let newbies start their journey with a taste of easy success.

All you have to do now is take your pick 🧑‍🍳

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