Benjamin Kheng shares his enduring love for swimming and why you should get started
Striking a balance in life may be as simple as carving out time regularly to indulge in an activity of your choice. Yahoo Life SEA chats with personalities who share their passion for a sport or wellness activity they enjoy, which helps them take on the world with zeal. We hope this monthly series will inspire you to find an interest that will add that sparkle to your life.
Benjamin Kheng is a multi-hyphenate Singaporean talent. A musician, actor, presenter, writer, and former national swimmer, who trained since he was six, Kheng is no stranger to putting in rigorous hours to hone his skills. He was the keyboardist, rhythm guitarist and vocalist of local band The Sam Willows which is on hiatus since 2019. He is currently flying solo. His recent work includes "Fresh Feelings," which is available online.
Yahoo Life: What is the one sport, fitness or wellness trend you love, and how did you get started?
I'd say swimming. I gave 12 years of my life to compete in it, and I have only just started getting back into it last year, thanks to the Masters' community*.
What are its benefits, and what do you love about it?
I’m planning to write a book on the benefits of swimming. But TL;DR – it’s a complete body workout, with low impact and risks. At the same time, you get some sweet vitamin D. Swimming is affordable, and most importantly, it’s an essential a life-skill.
How often do you indulge in it, and with whom?
I was doing it professionally, twice almost every day, and 35 hours a week. It was horrendous. I am currently in the *Masters' community (and as a quarter-life crisis adult), and it’s a wonderful feeling to get into the sport two to four times a week. I'm either with my training group in Singapore Swimming Club, X-LAB or with a couple of swimmer friends who want to do some laps.
Was there any point you wanted to give up? Why? How did you bounce back?
YES! When I was competing every morning at 5:30 am before training. But I fell, and am still falling in love, with the therapeutic nature of the sport – you're at one with yourself and working on the same few things constantly. Also, the sound of the water around my ears helps me think.
What gears/tools do you need for the sport?
Swimwear, goggles, cap, and a smile. When you get more into it, a pull-buoy, fins, paddles, a snorkel, the list goes on.
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Share with us one thing you learnt from this sport or what you wish others to discover about it.
It’s some cheesy inspirational stuff — the only thing you can control is you. I can’t dictate how a race would go, but all I can do is work on myself and better myself each time I come back.
*Singapore Masters is a community for swimmers above 20-30yrs who still want to compete. Individuals will have to pay to be a member.
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Thinking of picking up swimming? Here are some items to set you on your way:
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