In a city as dynamic and fast-paced as Singapore, carving out time for fitness can feel like squeezing a durian into a coin pouch—possible, but not always pleasant. Yet the goal remains the same for many: a flatter tummy, stronger core, and more defined arms. Whether it’s gearing up for a Sentosa beach day, slipping into that cheongsam or batik shirt for a family gathering, or simply wanting to feel better in your own skin, fitness goals here are often deeply tied to both health and confidence.
But let’s be honest—gyms can feel intimidating for beginners, and with unpredictable schedules, daily commutes, and our famously humid weather, heading out for a workout isn’t always appealing. The solution? Bring the workout home.
This guide introduces five beginner-friendly home routines that specifically target common trouble areas: belly fat, abs, and arms. Designed with simplicity in mind, they require little to no equipment, fit neatly into your schedule, and can be done in the comfort (and air-con) of your own home. So roll out a towel, fill up those water bottles, and get ready to sweat smart—Singapore style.
1. Kopitiam Core Kickstart (Focus: Beginner Abs & Belly Fat)
Goal: Activate and strengthen your abs while gently targeting belly fat.
Equipment Needed: Yoga mat or towel
Exercises:
- Crunches (3 sets of 12 reps)
Lie on your back, knees bent, hands behind your head. Lift your shoulders off the ground using your core—not your neck. - Modified Leg Raises (3 sets of 10 reps)
Hands under your hips, raise one leg at a time slowly to 90 degrees and lower it back down. Alternate legs. - Bird-Dog (3 sets of 10 reps each side)
On all fours, extend one arm and the opposite leg simultaneously. Hold for a moment, then switch sides. - Knee Plank (3 rounds, hold for 20–30 seconds)
Keep your back flat, core tight, and knees on the ground. For more challenge, lift to a full plank.
Why it works: These foundational moves build abdominal strength and improve core engagement—perfect for those just starting out.
Singapore Touch: Think of this as your “kopitiam breakfast” of workouts—basic, comforting, and a perfect way to start the day.
2. Orchard Road Arm Sculptor (Focus: Toning Arms & Shoulders)
Goal: Tone your biceps, triceps, and shoulders using everyday items.
Equipment Needed: Two water bottles or light hand weights, sturdy chair
Exercises:
- Bicep Curls (3 sets of 12 reps)
Hold a water bottle in each hand, palms facing up. Bend your elbows to bring the bottles towards your shoulders. - Chair Tricep Dips (3 sets of 10 reps)
Place your hands on a chair behind you, feet extended. Lower your body slowly, bending the elbows, and push back up. - Shoulder Press (3 sets of 12 reps)
With bottles in hand, press straight up overhead and lower slowly. - Wall Push-Ups (3 sets of 10–15 reps)
Stand an arm’s length from a wall. Place palms flat and do push-ups against the wall, keeping elbows slightly tucked.
Why it works: These low-impact moves focus on muscle definition and endurance, perfect for sculpting sleek arms without bulking up.
Singapore Touch: Like an Orchard Road shopping spree—this routine is a stylish way to build confidence and presence.
3. Gardens by the Bay Belly Blast (Focus: All-around Core & Light Cardio)
Goal: Burn belly fat while improving coordination and core strength.
Equipment Needed: Mat (optional)
Exercises:
- Slow Mountain Climbers (3 sets of 20 reps)
In plank position, slowly bring one knee toward your chest. Alternate sides at a controlled pace. - Russian Twists (3 sets of 15 reps each side)
Sit with knees bent, lean back slightly. Twist from side to side, touching the floor beside your hips. - Bicycle Crunches (3 sets of 10 reps each side)
Lie down and cycle your legs while bringing your opposite elbow toward the lifted knee.
Marching High Knees (3 rounds, 30 seconds each)
Stand tall and lift your knees high one at a time, mimicking a march. Engage your core throughout.
Why it works: This routine gently raises your heart rate while engaging deep core muscles, helping burn fat without intense cardio.
Singapore Touch: Much like strolling through the Gardens—calming yet energising—this sequence refreshes you without leaving you drenched in sweat.
4. Sentosa Slimdown Series (Focus: Full Body & Core Engagement)
Goal: Engage the entire body while building balance, strength, and a leaner midsection.
Equipment Needed: None
Exercises:
- Bodyweight Squats (3 sets of 12 reps)
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Lower into a squat, keeping your chest up and knees behind toes. - Lunges (3 sets of 10 reps each leg)
Step one foot forward, lower the back knee, and return to standing. Alternate legs. - Modified Plank Jacks (3 rounds, 20 seconds)
From plank position, step one foot out to the side, then the other. Keep hips low and steady. - Superman (3 sets of 10 reps)
Lie on your stomach. Lift arms, chest, and legs off the ground like you’re flying. Hold for 3 seconds.
Why it works: This dynamic mix builds muscle endurance while improving posture and tightening the midsection.
Singapore Touch: Think of this as your personal Bootcamp @ Sentosa—minus the sunburn and sand.
5. Jewel Changi Junction Jumpstart (Focus: Dynamic Abs & Posture)
Goal: Strengthen the deeper abdominal muscles and improve spine mobility.
Equipment Needed: Mat or towel
Exercises:
- Reverse Crunches (3 sets of 12 reps)
Lie down, knees bent. Lift hips off the floor using your lower abs. Slowly lower. - Dead Bug (3 sets of 10 reps each side)
On your back, arms and knees in tabletop. Extend one arm and opposite leg simultaneously, return to centre, then switch. - Plank with Hip Dips (3 sets of 10 reps)
From plank position, gently dip your hips side to side, keeping your core tight. - Cat-Cow Stretch (3 sets of 6 slow reps)
On all fours, alternate arching your back (cow) and rounding it (cat). Move with your breath.
Why it works: These exercises target the transverse abdominis (deep core muscles) while supporting spinal health—great for posture and long hours at a desk.
Singapore Touch: Like Jewel’s indoor waterfall, this routine is elegant, soothing, and surprisingly powerful.
Conclusion: Start Small, Stay Strong, See Results
You don’t need a fancy gym membership or two-hour blocks of free time to kickstart your fitness journey. These five home workout routines are tailored for Singaporeans with busy schedules, warm climates, and real goals.
The key isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Even ten minutes a day adds up. Pair your workouts with mindful eating (think less fried carrot cake, more grilled sambal fish), stay hydrated, and give yourself the grace to grow.
So whether you’re working out in a HDB flat, a condo balcony, or a bedroom corner, know that change is possible—right here, right now. After all, Singapore didn’t become a world-class city overnight; it took consistent effort. Your fitness journey deserves the same commitment.
Ready to sweat a little, smile a lot, and transform from the inside out? Let’s get moving—lah!
