ST : Residents in Bedok get rooftop gym

Nov 22, 2010

Residents in Bedok get rooftop gym



Mr George Yeo trying his hand at one of the exercise machines in the new gym on the roof of the multi-storey carpark at Block 714A, Bedok Reservoir Road, yesterday. -- PHOTO: LIANHE WANBAO

A GOOD workout can leave you feeling on top of the world. Especially when the gym you are using is on the roof.

Residents in Bedok have been given a rooftop gym with a difference - it is on top of a public multi-storey carpark.

The $240,000 facility, the first in Singapore to be built on a carpark, was officially opened yesterday by MP for Aljunied GRC, Mr George Yeo, who is the Foreign Minister. The nearly 2,000 sq ft gym, on top of Block 714A, Bedok Reservoir Road, took four months to construct.

It is aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and forging a stronger identity among residents. The gym also provides an alternative exercise venue for residents who currently use the jogging track at nearby Bedok Reservoir Park.

Run by a private operator, the gym is open from 7am-10pm on weekdays, and 7am-8pm on weekends and public holidays. It costs $3.50 per session and $2.50 for those under 21 or above 60.

Mrs Josephine Chew, 63, who has lived in the area for 30 years, is glad she can now use the gym when the weather is unsuitable for outdoor exercise.

The retiree, who exercises at least four times a week, said: 'It's very convenient, and it's indoors. It was the only thing that was missing in this area.'

Another resident, Mr Ravinder Bahadur, 45, is hoping to lead a healthier lifestyle, now that the gym has opened.

'The fees are reasonably priced, it's well within reach, and the opening hours are just right. Those on their way back home from office can just pop in,' he said.

Mr Yeo, adviser to Bedok Reservoir-Punggol grassroots organisations, called the project, which was included in the planning of the carpark's construction, an 'experiment' which worked out.

He said: 'I encourage other MPs in my GRC, when they build multi-storey carparks, to think of this idea as well. Because if it works here, it may work elsewhere.'

JALELAH ABU BAKER