Sunday, 8 February 2015

The All New Peugeot 308

[Sponsored Post]

Everyone knows that it is not cheap to own a car in Singapore and I must say that I've been pretty blessed to be able to be driving for the past 5 year. And since it's not cheap to be driving in this tiny island called home, make sure you own a sweet ride is you so choose to be driving.

I was really excited when I was invited to the weekend launch of the all new Peugeot 308 on 25 January 2015.

My 1st encounter with a Peugeot was back in 2013 during my honeymoon in UK. Limaran and I decided to do a pure UK trip for 2.5 weeks and so we decided to do a little driving while we were outside London.


I got myself the Peugeot 208 (Manual) as it was rated one of the easiest car to handle and being a driver so used to automatic transmission for more than 8 years, I thought I better not over estimate my driving abilities.
Can you tell that the car is smiling too?? =)
Now back to the new Peugeot 308! Got too carried away as Limaran and I really had a wonderful time in UK!!

Whenever I am handed an assignment, I like to do some background research on the brand. What I found really interesting is that the history of Peugeot goes way back to the 1800s. Peugeot built its first car in 1858 and became one of the biggest automotive brands in Europe.


And as for the Peugeot 308, it was first unveiled in 2007 and has gone through a total of 2 facelift. Peugeot has also shown some really huge technological advancement since 2007.

Peugeot 308 (Year 2007) Photo credit: Carbuyer.com
The all new Peugeot 308 (Car of the year 2014)
I was really in awe when I first saw the design of the new 308 because it really looked awesome! Some of the really cool features of the exterior include:
- Full LED headlights with LED daytime running lights

Panoramic glass roof – Stretches all the way to the back of the car and provides stunning views
 
I'm in LOVE

Peugeot made some really great changes to the cabin. Called the i-Cockpit Interior, the idea is to give it a minimalist feel yet really easy for the drive to navigate all its functions. 

The steering wheel has also been sized down for intense dynamic sensations, a high- positioned ‘head up’ instrument panel to easily read the information without taking the driver’s eyes off the road ahead, an enhancing high centre console and a large 9.7” touch screen for intuitive driving.




And most importantly, the new 308 has one of the biggest boot space in its class!
I just had to use my beautiful wife for this shot! =)

And of course, after the detailed introduction to the 308 by the Sales Manager of AutoFrance (Peugeot), Jimmy, it was time to take the new 308 for a spin!

I had a total of 4 passengers in the car and was honestly quite worried that the small 1.2litre engine will not be able to take the weight. But to my surprise, the 308 managed to give the ladies at the back seat a shock when I accelerated to counter an up slope. The turbo kicked in and dashed the car forward with ease.

While driving, I had a really clear vision on the road and felt that I was in full control of this mean machine. The 308 comes with a really cool safety feature; a blinking light at the tip of your side mirror whenever there is a car at your blind spot.


My overall experience with the all new Peugeot 308 was really amazing! The drive was smooth yet powerful, big credit to the 1.2L Puretech Turbo engine with its 6 speed EAT6 Gearbox.

It is also very gentle on the pocket in terms of fuel consumption, averaging 19.6km/l. 

And because you'll be patiently reading my blog, it's time for you to win some prizes!

There is a blogging contest going on and all you have to do is to post on your blog your favourite feature of the new Peugeot 308 and why. Stand a chance to win a staycation and a weekend with the Peugeot 308!!

Log on to  <http://blog.nuffnang.com.sg/2015/02/06/peugeot308-blogging-contest/> for more details. It's that simple!

Thanks for reading and do remember to visit the Peugeot showroom for more information!

Friday, 30 January 2015

Fitness Photoshoot with Herworld Singapore

Was called up for a photoshoot last November with Herworld Singapore and here are some of the photos taken. Enjoy!

Final product from the shoot

Behind the scene

A photo with Richmond & Raz
 And finally, Q&A segment video :)


There's a hidden story behind every photoshoot and that's what make every shoot special and unique. As for this shoot, i pulled my back from deadlift just 5 days before the shoot. Went for 2 treatment sessions without the 5 days and non stop stretching. I couldn't do any form of cardio after hurting myself so it was done purely with core workouts and stretching.

I'll remember this shoot for a long long time :)

Till the next post my friends.

Sunday, 25 January 2015

MTG ReFa Active Review

[Sponsored Post]

As a fitness enthusiast, I always get excited to try out new fitness related products or services. And today, I'm really happy to share with you this wonderful product from MTG. As both Limaran and myself are selected as fitness influencers, we are fortunate enough to try out ReFa Active & Pao Facial Fitness.

ReFa Active
Full review of Pao Facial Fitness can be found at Limaran's blog (www.limaranagustina.blogspot.sg)

As for me, I'll be doing a review of this product called the ReFa Active.


What is MTG ReFa Active?

ReFa Active is an advanced hybrid massage roller that is specially designed for use on the body and face. This product is designed and manufactured in Japan.The titanium coated rollers and flexible handle replicate the gentle pinching and kneading sensation that an Aesthetician might include as part of your treatment. These actions stimulate your skin and the muscles below and increase circulation.

As I'm someone who's very skeptical when it comes to such products, I really have to try it personally to believe it. We were fortunate enough to have an in-depth product demonstration and got to try out the ReFa Active first hand. I have tried some old school massage roller that look pretty similar to the ReFa Active, just that it is made from wood, so I was expecting more or less the same sensation when using the ReFa Active. But to my amazement, the ReFa Active really feels like having a masseuse treating you. There is a personal touch when the titanium coated roller is moving on the surface of the body. I later found of that it is due to the flexibility of the handle as well as the microcurrent that is generated.

Let's find out more about what ReFA Active actually do:




 When a masseuse is massaging for you, his/her biological current is present during the session. That is why, regardless of how much one can spend on a massage chair, it will never as close as a human touch.


I was given the ReFa Active for product testing and guess what...I hurt my back a few days after. I told myself that there's no better way to test this product than this. Of course I still went to see a chinese physician and all but I used the ReFa Active 2 times a day, working on my lower back as well as the surrounding areas. My back felt loose and warm every single time after using the ReFa Active. With the help of the chinese physician, loads of rehab work and the ReFa Active, my back recovered in less than 2 weeks. I do not want to give full credit to the product because I believe it is just one of the reason why my back recovered. But I'm certain that without the ReFa Active, I may need an additional 1-2 weeks before I reach full recovery.



Now that I'm injury free, I still use it every evening on the muscle groups that I trained on that day. Knowing that it helps to promote good blood circulation and better recovery, I can have 5-6 quality trainings every week. I really like it that I'm able to give myself a good massage with this product and of course, I'll get Limaran to give me a hand for my neck and hard to reach areas. 
Shiokness written all over my face!

For Limaran, the ReFA Active is most frequently used on her very stiff neck and on her legs as she is always standing the whole day training clients. She also uses it on her clients after their workouts, which makes it a lot easier her. 



Dutiful husband at work!








It's been 3 months since we've used the ReFa Active and I must say that I can really feel the rewards from using this product diligently.


Feel free to find out more on http://www.mtg-sg.com and quote JLnetwork for a discount of 5% on any product! Thanks for reading and have a great week ahead everyone!






Monday, 27 October 2014

International Premier Tennis League in Singapore (Stand a chance to watch it for FREE!)


If you are a fan of tennis, you are in for a treat! Tennis fans and entertainment seekers can now look forward to seeing tennis superstars Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, and Patrick Rafter teaming up with the Singapore Slammers for the Singapore leg of the inaugural International Premier Tennis League (IPTL), which is set to liven up the Singapore Indoor Stadium from 2 to 4 December, 2014. The second stop of the four-city tour – sanctioned by the ATF – promises a dose of exciting sporting competition with the Singapore Slammers vying for top honours and a US$1 million prize purse against the Manila Mavericks, Indian Aces and UAE Royals.

The IPTL brings together NBA-style entertainment and world-class tennis, featuring the best current and past ATP & WTA champions in a team tennis competition from 28 November until 13 December 2014. A star-studded line-up of 24 champions has committed to play in Singapore. In addition to current World Number 1 Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, and Patrick Rafter, notable players include Tomas Berdych, Daniela Hantuchova, Bruno Soares, Lleyton Hewitt, Nick Kyrios, Ana Ivanovic, Eugenie Bouchard, Daniela Hantuchova, Jo-Wilfred Tsonga, Gael Monfils, Richard Gasquet, Goran Ivanisevic, andCarlos Moya.

This is where the good news is: In conjunction with the upcoming Halloween, I will be giving away 3 pairs of Category-3 tickets for one day (worth $98 per pair)! All you need to do is to dress up as your favourite tennis players and replicate their idiosyncrasies on Instagram in a photo or video (e.g. replicating Serena William’s grunt, Roger Federer's twirling racket habit, etc). Afterwhich, simply use the hashtags #IPTLSG#ChangeOverSG and #SgSlammers!

You are free to post anytime from today till 2nd November and we will be picking our top 3 favourites on 3rd November, Monday! Have fun! :)

For more information about the event: www.iptlworld.com

For more information on Singapore Slammers: www.singaporeslammers.com
Like them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SingaporeSlammers

T
ickets are also on sale at Sports Hub Tix on the Sports Hub Tix Website: www.sportshubtix.sg 

Sunday, 26 October 2014

Road to better complexion: Trinity Medical Centre

It is very commonly seen on facebook or instagram where people #whatpubertydidtome and show loads of fitness transformation photo. What I really feel like posting in regardless to what puberty did to me will be none other than the acne scars on my face!


Ever since I joined Manhunt Singapore 2014, I've been trying my best to find solutions to improve my complexion. And after doing some research, I've decided to drop by Trinity Medical Centre (Marine Parade) for a consultation.


When I arrived at the Trinity, the staff were really friendly, making sure that I was nice and comfortable. 

After registration, I met up with Dr Lim, a very friendly doctor who examined my face and gave me a couple of recommendations for my poor complexion and acne scars.

1. Fractional CO2 - Very effective but long down time
2. Fillers treatment for acne scars - Effective and shorter down time
3. Carbon laser peel – For oily skin, inflammatory acne, reddish acne spot, superficial acne scars and large pores

As I had quite a number of photo shoots coming up during this period, I decided to work with options that had a shorter down time. Dr Lim also recommended that I get a package of Carbon Laser Peel as it will help lighten the scars and brighten my face.


Photo taking before treatment
The very first treatment was the Carbon Laser Peel. I did my homework and saw many good reviews about this treatment. Really excited about this.

Getting my face cleansed
All set!
The treatment wasn't painful at all, just some heat sensation and occasional burnt smell. I checked with Dr Lim about the burnt smell and he assured me that it's normal.

After a few days, I could see that my skin looks brighter!




About 2 weeks later, I came back for my 1st fillers treatment. Dr Lim recommended me to use Restylane fillers.

What is Restylane filler?


Restylane is a FDA-approved dermal filler made of biodegradable, non- animal stabilised hyaluronic acid (NASHA). Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in all living organisms and provides volume and fullness to the skin.

As my cheeks are filled with uneven skin, the fastest way to level the skin is to fill up the sunken parts. Dr Lim also found out that my cheeks are quite sunken and recommended that I should have some to lift up my cheeks. Why not??

I was really nervous about this treatment because there are needles!! Having needles poked into my face? Is it worth it? All these questions ran through my mind moments before the treatment. But I also did enough homework to reassure myself that everything is going to be fine.

Application of numbing cream
It was quite an experience and I don't want to lie that it isn't painful. But it was bearable. When I looked into the mirror, I could instantly see that the bumps on my cheeks are less obvious in one session.
Taken immediately before I left the clinic
I am really happy with the results so far. To be honest, I was abit hesitant to blog about this at first for the simple fact about people judging. But after much consideration, I hope that this post will encourage guys to not only work on their physiques, but also on their facial complexion.

Taken on day 2 
Feel free to comment or message me if you have any questions about my experience with the treatments.

Till the next post, take care and God bless!

Monday, 20 October 2014

Supplement Review: Cellucor Alpha Amino

Today, I'm going to share with you guys my experience with Cellucor Alpha Amino. But before I do that, let's find out what Amino Acid is and if it's important to take them.


What is Amino Acid?
A large proportion of our cells, muscles and tissue is made up of amino acids, meaning they carry out many important bodily functions, such as giving cells their structure. They also play a key role in the transport and the storage of nutrients. Amino acids have an influence on the function of organs, glands, tendons and arteries. They are furthermore essential for healing wounds and repairing tissue, especially in the muscles, bones, skin and hair as well as for the removal of all kinds of waste deposits produced in connection with the metabolism.


Amino Acid is very important for everyone, even more so if you're intending to build muscles. 

Amino Acid generally helps in 3 areas: 1. Improves overall strength 2.Aids recovery 3.Promote muscle growth

I'm not going to delve any further into its function for now so visit this link for more information: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/catamino.htm

Closer look at the ingredients in Cellucor Alpha Amino:



I will like to bring your attention to some of the amazing ingredients that have been added into this product.

1.  L-Leucine: This ingredient help in muscle building & recovery, increases protein synthesis as you are working out.  It also increases the growth hormone levels in your body.
2. Leucine Nitrate: Responsible for giving you a good pump when you work out!
3. Glutamine: Having this during your workout is essential as it reduces muscle soreness so that you can push on for that extra rep! It also boost your immune system.  
4. Arginine: This ingredient works closely with Leucine to improve blood flow, allowing nutrients and oxygen to flow to the muscles worked.
5. Raw coconut water & Taurine: Helps to reduce cramps!

I have been taking Optimum Nutrition's Amino Energy for the longest time as an intra workout drink and it has been working pretty well for me. But after trying the Cellucor's Alpha Amino, this product has surpassed my expectations! Amino drinks always come with a weird after taste but this one doesn't, it also mixes really well, which is really important for an intra workout drink.

I work 7 days a week and often find it hard to concentrate during my workout. This product is suitable for individuals who want to take their workout really seriously.

Here's my rating for this product:
Taste: 4.5/5
Mixibility: 5 / 5
Price: 4 / 5

Head over to www.richnutrition.com to get your Alpha Amino and check out with "JJLJ85" for additional 5% discount on top of any existing offers!





That's all folks! 







Thursday, 2 October 2014

Supplement review: Cellucor COR-Performance Whey

Hey guys, hope everyone has been working out hard and eating well. Today I'm going share with you my experience with Cellucor COR-Performance Whey.

As all of you may already know, I'm a huge fan of protein blend. Love the taste of the Musclepharm Combat Powder as well as BSN Syntha 6. After having such delicious protein shakes for the longest time, I'm pretty worried if my pampered taste buds will accept anything below average.

Before we begin, let's find out alittle more about Cellucor COR-Performance Whey.

Cellucor® COR-Performance™ Whey was created with one goal in mind—to deliver a pure protein that packs more protein, and better flavors, into each and every scoop.
COR-Performance™ Whey features a fast digesting Whey Protein Isolate based formula that packs 25G of protein per serving to satisfy protein needs any time of day. Featuring 100% Whey Protein, minimal fat or carbs, added digestive enzymes, perfect mixability and the best flavors on the market, it’s safe to say COR-Performance™ Whey is here to set the new standard in protein.

Even though protein blend is my favourite choice, I always think of it as a more sinful option due to the fact that it is slightly higher in fat content. But to my amazement, both Cellucor COR-Performance Whey and Musclepharm Combat Powder share the same amount of fats per serving.

I've tasted some really bad protein shakes even from big reputable brands and I sometimes wonder if they spent all their money on Marketing and left nothing for the research team.

However, the taste of Cellucor COR-Performance Whey surpassed my expectations. Definitely the best tasting whey isolate I've ever tasted. Hard to find a whey isolate with a rich taste.

Here are the flavours available at www.richnutrition.com:
- Cookies and Cream
- Strawberry Milkshake
- Cinnamon Swirl
- Whipped Vanilla
- Molten Chocolate


So all in all, here's my verdict:

Brand: Cellucor
Product: COR-Performance Whey

Taste: 4 / 5
Mixibility: 4.5 / 5
Price: 4 / 5

So who will I recommend Cellucor COR-Performance Whey to?



Anyone who wants great tasting Whey Isolate. This is a fast digesting protein that is best for pre and post workouts. But don't forget, supplements work best on individuals with a good training programme and good diet.

Here are some of the other products that I'll be reviewing.


That's about all I have for you today.

So head over to www.richnutrition.com to get your supplements before it runs out. Checkout with "JJLJ85" and get an additional 5% off.

Till the next post!