Hanurdeen Hamid: The Humble Hero

Posted on 31 July 201812 September 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Becoming a Better You: Learning Humility from Hanurdeen Hamid, the Humble Hero

Feeling a bit low? Don’t worry; we’ve got just the inspiration you need to lift your spirits! Dive into the extraordinary journey of one of Singapore’s finest national boxers, Mohamed Hanurdeen Bin Hamid.

Hanurdeen secures 2015 SEA Games flyweight (52kg) final with a 3-0 win over Myanmar opponent. — 2015 SEA Games: Hanurdeen advances to the flyweight final with a decisive 3-0 victory.

Let’s talk about some of his remarkable achievements:

2017 SEA Games, 52kg Flyweight – Bronze
2015 SEA Games, 52kg Flyweight – Silver
2013 North Sulawesi Cup, Indonesia – Gold
2013 Kuala Lumpur City Cup – Silver
2012 Penang International – Gold
2010 Penang International – Gold
2010 Sijori Invitational Championship, Singapore – Gold

But there’s more to this story. I’ve known Hanurdeen personally since 2008, when I first spotted him at the U2CAN Boxing Club. His dedication and unwavering commitment have remained an enduring source of inspiration, not just for me but for countless others venturing into the world of sports. Beyond his impressive athletic feats, it’s his humility that truly sets him apart.

Fun fact: Consider me his biggest fan! I’m always eagerly anticipating his next bout.

What’s the key lesson here? Whether it’s sports or life itself, Hanurdeen teaches us one invaluable trait – humility. That’s why we’ve titled this post ‘Humble Hero.’ So, stick around, and let’s have a chat with him, shall we?

Hanurdeen striking a boxing pose with blue boxing gloves. — Ready for action: Hanurdeen dons his blue boxing gloves in style.

1) Hey Hanurdeen! Can you share when you first embraced the world of boxing and what drew you to this sport?

“Hi Readers! I picked up boxing at the age of 13. My elder brother was into boxing too. Back then, he was competing in a local tournament and also insisted I join the same club as him, ‘U2CAN’ to keep myself occupied and stay out of trouble as I was quite mischievous in my younger days.”

2) With over a decade of training under your belt, what fuels your passion and dedication?

“I just love the sport too much and enjoy every aspect of it. Sometimes it can be physically and mentally draining, especially when I’m training twice a day, but I constantly remind myself of my goals & that itself keeps me going again!”

Hanurdeen in the heat of a match at the 2nd HK International Boxing Tournament. — Intensity at its peak: Hanurdeen competing at the 2nd HK International Boxing Tournament.

3) Your achievements are truly remarkable, but could you tell us about your future aspirations and targets?

“My main goal would be qualifying and producing results in the major games like the SEA Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Championships, and ultimately, the Olympics, among others. But right now, I’m focusing more on my upcoming local & international tournaments, which will be a good stepping stone towards my main goal.”

Hanurdeen lands a powerful punch on his opponent during a fight.

4) Along your journey, have you encountered any significant challenges, and how do you handle them?

“I always believe that to produce results in the major games, I’ve to devote myself 100% to my sport. I’ll have to train full-time and it has been very difficult financially. I’m truly thankful to my current sponsors SUMMIT INTERNATIONAL who came forward to support my dreams and ease some of my burdens.”

Hanurdeen takes a break in the corner of the ring with his mouthguard being removed.

5) Who stands as your ultimate role model, and what qualities inspire you in them?

“One of my favourite fighter/role models is Manny Pacquiao. I’ve always admired him for his hard work, humbleness, and the milestones he has achieved despite all the setbacks that came his way. I’m extremely elated to have gotten a chance to speak to him over the phone once! One of the best feelings ever!”

6) What words of wisdom would you offer to newcomers stepping into the sport?

“Well… I always tell myself, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!”. So be passionately driven, and don’t take success to the head. Most importantly, enjoy the sport!”

Hanurdeen enjoys a relaxed photoshoot session with his teammates.

7) Now, for a fun twist! Could you share an interesting fact about yourself that fans might not know?

“I love learning and practicing new card tricks, then trying it on my teammates when we travel!” (Answers this with a smirk!)

8) On a personal note, do you have a preferred punch in your arsenal, and what makes it your favorite?

“I’ve been told by a couple of coaches that I have a good jab. On top of that, I feel that it comes naturally to me. The jab is a great starter move, allowing me to set up all my combos, too!”

Hanurdeen practices his punches on a punching bag.

It’s been an incredible conversation with our humble hero, Hanurdeen Hamid. His journey and wisdom teach us the value of humility on the path to success. So, take that inspiration and carry it with you in whatever you do. Remember, staying grounded is key.

If you’re ready to take your own journey, check out our Schedule + Rates page for more details. Keep striving for greatness, folks!

Signing off with a Fist Bump,

Head-Coach Kumar!

Taking a break is a MUST!

Posted on 18 July 201831 October 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Discovering the Power of Breaks: How a Trip to Sydney Helped Me to Recharge in Life and Sports

Hi everyone,

It’s been a while since we caught up, and I’ve got some exciting stories to share. Just returned from a rejuvenating 10-day getaway in Sydney, a trip that was a blend of learning and leisure.

(Will be sharing the photos from the trip here!)

Coach Kumar enjoying a scenic view from the balcony — Taking a moment to unwind and appreciate the view

But you know what struck me most during this journey? The immense importance of taking a breather, not only from our hectic daily lives but also in the realm of sports. So, let’s talk more about why breaks matter, how they can fuel your passion, and why I’m convinced you’ll want to hear more about it.

In the hustle and bustle of Singaporean life, we all find ourselves ensnared in the routine grind. Balancing work, responsibilities, social commitments, and countless other tasks can be an overwhelming juggling act.

This ‘juggling’ process could lead to frustrations at some point of time. That ‘frustration’ would lead to breakdown and obviously affect the quality of life. But how is this related to fitness or boxing?

Active studio session with people participating in boxing routines and sparring — Learning and training with fellow boxers in Sydney

Not only boxing, but all sports out there have this term called burn off phase. Have you seen someone who used to be so good at a particular sport and then perform badly for the event? Have you seen a student studying so hard for a particular exam but not performing during the test? The most common one, have you seen someone been so determined to be starting a fitness regime, posting out what they have trained, what they have for their diet but then stopping everything in a couple of weeks?

That’s called BURN-OUT.

Row of cycling machines in 'Fight Gym' with a fighter mural in the background. — Pedal your way to greatness surrounded by inspiring fighter artwork.

Why does this Burnout take place?

1) Pushing yourself for a prolonged period

For example, when someone is preparing for their upcoming boxing competition. The back-to-back training could be intense. Due to other commitments, they might not get proper rest. When this continues for a long period, some tend to lose motivation for training. They are looking forward to finishing the training & competition rather than doing well.

2) OVER-Pushing yourself suddenly

Another example is someone who wants to lose weight. They wake up one day and change their entire lifestyle, working out twice daily, having strict meals, counting calories, etc. This is too shocking for the mind. Rather than a goal, it becomes a torture. Eventually, he/she starts to crave unhealthy food and starts cheating on the routine.

Black and white mural depicting two boxers in an intense fight. — Every fight tells a story of determination and grit

So what should I do?

The answer is in the title of this blog: TAKE A BREAK!

Let’s say you have been so strict with your workout regime for the past 5 weeks & have lost 5kg. Take a day off, and have a “CHEAT MEAL”. Something that has been in your mind, something that you have been craving for. This would give you some kind of happiness, satisfaction & of course GUILT. Haha! But it’s really fine, you DESERVE it. It’s just like giving yourself a reward for sticking to the plan. That “Cheat Meal” motivates you to push for another 5 weeks!

Fun Fact: I ate a bowl of Prawn noodles after sticking to a plan for a couple of weeks, and I still remember how happy I felt when I was having that meal.

For those of you guys who have been training for a long period. I advise my competitive boxers to take a complete 1/2 weeks off to give the body & the mind the time to recover completely. Also, when they are back, I ensure I start from a low to moderate intensity rather than continuing from where they left off.

I trust this article has shed light on the importance of rejuvenating breaks and how they can rekindle your motivation. Remember, a well-deserved break doesn’t have to be lengthy – it’s about quality, not quantity. So, take that short breather and let it propel you towards greater heights, both in your sporting journey and in life. If you’re eager to dive into our schedules and rates for a tailored experience, head over to our Schedule + Rates page to explore what we offer. Here’s to your success, both on and off the field!

Cheers to thriving,

Head-Coach Kumar

Coach Kumar in the HDB lobby after his rejuvenating trip — Back home and recharged after a memorable journey

Saturday Sparring Night!

Posted on 9 May 201812 September 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Unleashing Courage: Saturday Sparring Night – A Real Fight Experience for Amateur Boxers

Hi everyone,

Join us as we delve into the electrifying world of Saturday Sparring Night, a recent event that offered amateur boxers a true taste of intense combat.

Saturday Sparring Night Poster - Join the Boxing Action! — Saturday Sparring Night Poster – Join the Boxing Action!

There were 10 gripping bouts, each lasting 2 minutes over 3 adrenaline-packed rounds. It’s here that 20 aspiring boxers showcased incredible courage, and we’re tipping our hats to their remarkable determination.

As someone wise once said, ‘Courage is like a muscle. It is strengthened by use.’ Curious to witness this inspiring showcase of grit and passion? Read on, and let’s step into the ring together.

Determined Boxers Preparing for Intense Sparring in the Boxing Ring

Many boxers couldn’t help but share their eye-opening experiences, highlighting the stark difference between our event and their typical training spars.

“I totally loved the experience; it was truly tiring, but I enjoyed myself throughout, and I’m glad I signed up for this event” – Boxer Zack

A Fighter Throws a Punch, Expertly Blocked by the Opponent

“I thought my stamina was good till I put it to the test. Will definitely come back stronger for the next event!” – Boxer Xavier

Fighter Throws a Punch as the Referee Keeps a Close Eye

The sparring was conducted similarly to competition standards, with a referee in the ring and with medics at the corner of the ring. The crowd was just AMAZING!

Boxing Fans Strike a Pose for the Camera, Excitement in the Air

Crowd Watches Boxing Match with a Mix of Joy and Intensity

Mark your calendars for the upcoming event on June 30th, 2018 – an opportunity for more aspiring boxers to test their mettle and for all of you to witness their incredible journey. To join the action, simply give us a call or send a message to secure your spot.

For further details on schedules and rates, head to our Schedule + Rates page. Let’s continue to support these dedicated fighters and be part of something truly special!

Warm Regards,

Head-Coach Kumar (FIST BUMP!)

Coach Kumar, Our Guiding Light, Cheers On as Boxers Give It Their All in the Ring

Know more about Coach Karthick!

Posted on 20 April 20186 October 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Meet the ‘Gentle Giant’: Coach Karthick’s Inspiring Journey Unveiled

Hey there,

Remember Coach Krishna? Now, meet Coach Karthick, our ‘Gentle Giant.’ People often misjudge him by his tough exterior, but in this post, we unveil the remarkable journey of Coach Karthick. Discover the man behind the image as we delve into his inspiring story and hidden passions. Stay with us to uncover Coach Karthick’s unique journey.

Coach Karthick posing with dumbbells in a Hulk-like pose.

1) Why did you pick up Boxing?

“I started Kickboxing at the age of 7 as I was getting bullied in school. I thought Kickboxing would be great as self-defense. I eventually continued to get fitter & started to compete and became a National Kickboxer. Through cross-training, I picked up Boxing and started coaching.”

Do you guys believe that he got bullied? Haha!

Coach Karthick in a boxing sparring session, blocking an attack with his legs.

2) Who is your Favorite Boxer?

“James Tony! I admire his style and fighting techniques. He might not be known to many, but he’s a great boxer! You guys should take a look at some of his videos.”

Coach Karthick in a Boxing ring, raising his right arm in a victory pose.

3) What does KOS mean to you?

“KOS is like home to me & the people here are like my family. In fact, I’ve never swept the floors in my house, but I do sweep the gym, and I do take pride in that! I’ve also seen the blood, sweat & tears of boxers throughout my journey & which makes this place closer to me.”

Coach Kumar, Coach Karthick, and Coach Krishna posing with fist bumps.

4) What makes up a good boxer, according to you?

“A good boxer is made up of a good attitude, discipline & listening to what the coaches advise.”

5) What keeps you going as a Coach each day?

“That view of a KOS Boxer’s arm being raised. I visualize that each day to keep me going.”

6) Give a nickname to your coaching style?

“Hmm, I can’t think of any actually. Maybe I’ll call myself a ‘Treasurer’.”

7) A quote for our readers?

“You won’t die from a tough training session! You got to get up stronger and fight harder!”

Coach Karthick guiding a young boxer on how to throw punches.

8) What are the struggles you face as a Coach?

“Creating new and fun exercises for our people! That really requires a lot of creativity! GRR!”

Coach Karthick and Coach Kumar posing goofily in the King of Strength gym.

9) Someone you look up to?

“My grandmother! She’s someone who wasn’t educated but came a long way in life and fought all kinds of struggles. I’ve never seen her even think of giving up, no matter how tough the situation gets. Learned how to overcome hurdles in life from her. Truly look up to her.”

10) Share a secret about yourself.

“I’m a cartoon lover! Most favorite cartoon? Tom & Jerry!“

Shocking! Another secret I know about him is that he loves to draw!

Coach Karthick shares his love for gaming as he takes a break from coaching.

HE ALSO PLAYS MOBILE LEGENDS.

Hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Coach Karthick, the ‘Gentle Giant,’ in this revealing article. Don’t let appearances fool you; behind that tough exterior is a coach with a heart of gold. If you’ve ever been hesitant to approach him, just strike up a conversation about cartoons—it’s the secret to breaking the ice! Now, if you’re inspired and ready to take action, head over to our Schedule + Rates page to explore how you can join Coach Karthick and the KOS family on your own inspiring journey.

Keep the fist bumps coming, and see you on the mat!

Coach Kumar

Get to know Coach Krishna!

Posted on 13 April 20186 October 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Getting Personal with Coach Krishna: Unveiling the Coach Behind the Gloves

Hello everyone!

Ever wondered about your coach’s world? Instead of them asking all the questions, I decided to turn the tables. This post is all about Coach Krishna – the person, the inspiration, and the secrets behind their coaching success. Get ready to dive in and uncover the intriguing world of Coach Krishna!

Coach Krishna in his boxing gloves after a sparring session.

1) Why did you pick up Boxing?

“I used to play many other sports such as Basketball, Hockey, Baseball etc. But I was hooked on boxing for its high intensity & the ‘smartness’ required for the sport. It got me very interested to continue with King of Strength.”

Coach Krishna proudly displaying a medal around his neck. — Coach Krishna’s dedication to boxing has earned him well-deserved accolades.

2) Who is your Favorite Boxer?

“Haha, I don’t really follow up with boxers. I just watch videos, but recently I’ve been watching a lot of Mike Tyson videos & became his fan.”

3) What does KOS mean to you?

“Hmm… I actually started off as a regular intern, looking forward to finish it with a good note. However, during this process the people I’ve met through coaching made me realise that this is definitely more than just finishing it up. I felt that this place was more like a home than just work. Thanks to my colleagues for making me feel this way!”

Fun fact: Coach Krishna was almost kicked out during his internship, but he definitely proved himself and his standing as one of the most talented coaches at KOS Boxing Gym.

A snapshot of the camaraderie and family spirit at KOS Boxing Gym.

4) What makes up a good boxer according to you?

“A strong mindset, good fighting spirit, never-dying willpower & sportsmanship will make up a good boxer, I believe.”

Fun fact: I’ve trained Coach Krishna for his fights, & trust me, he has everything he mentioned, especially the never-dying willpower.

Coach Krishna assisting a young boxer with putting on their boxing glove.

5) What keeps you going as a Coach each day?

“The trainees & their goals! I try my best to cater to each individual trainee and their own fitness goal. Therefore, I take it as a challenge & look forward to coming up with different exercises and ideas to help them in this process. And, of course, seeing them finally achieve their goals makes me even more motivated and want to continue this journey as a coach.”

Coach Krishna's focus and commitment to his young students are truly inspiring. — Coach Krishna’s focus and commitment to his young student are truly inspiring.

6) Give a nickname to your coaching style?

“Hahah! Maybe I should call myself ‘The Quiet One!'”

He said it with a smirk on his face!

7) A quote for our readers?

“Every training is tough, but you have to be prepared to die & you’ll stand up stronger to fight.”

Coach Krishna in a boxing stance, ready for action.

8) What are the struggles you face as a Coach?

“When I really want to help someone, but they don’t give me their 100%.”

9) Someone you look up to?

“Coach Kumar. I look up to him as a Coach & a person who guides, like an elder brother. He gave me the drive to reach further heights & ensured I never gave up.”

FACT: I didn’t ask him to mention my name! LOL

Coach Kumar assisting a boxer during a match.

10) Share a secret about yourself.

“I’m a game freak.”

Fun Fact: Want to irritate Coach Krishna? Disturb him while he plays his favorite game, Mobile Legends.

Coach Krishna enjoying a game of Mobile Legends on the floor

Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey into Coach Krishna’s world. Did you know he’s not just a remarkable coach but also a child training specialist? It’s no wonder young boxers at KOS Boxing Gym adore him. Keep the inspiration flowing!

If you’re curious about our coaching services, including schedules and rates, head over to our Schedule + Rates page. Let’s keep the momentum going!

Signing off with a fist-bump,

Coach Kumar

Answers you always wanted to know about Boxing!

Posted on 5 April 20186 October 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Unlocking Boxing: Discover the Answers to Your Questions!

Hi everyone,

Do you have questions about boxing training? We’ve got answers to open your eyes. Dive in, and drop us a message if we missed your questions!

1) BOXING? Will I get punched in the face?

NOOO! There’s a lot more to boxing than just punching each other’s faces. Please do understand – boxing is an art form. You’ll have to go through and learn many things before stepping into a sparring session. We understand that some of you are not interested in competing, so our coaches will definitely not throw you into the ring to get punched. Please understand that Boxing can be a fitness tool to achieve your goals.

Boxing Sparring: Skill Development and Protective Gear in Action

2) Will I be able to lose weight through Boxing?

There’s no way you’ll not lose weight during an intense boxing regime. In order to lose weight, apart from dieting, CARDIO IS A MUST! For those engaged in boxing, it becomes evident that it offers an excellent cardio workout. It keeps your mind so engaged that you’ll hardly notice the time passing by – perfect for those who find running a bit dull!

Additional tip: Those who have trained at KOS definitely know that you’ll be perspiring so much due to our COOLING GYM! LOL

3) How often should I train?

It’s like the child asking their parent, ‘How much should I study?’. The answer is, THE MORE THE BETTER. It depends on your goal and whether you have a time frame to achieve it. For beginner boxers, I recommend at least twice a week. For competitive boxers, at least 3-4 times a week.

A Well-Trained King of Strengths Boxer — A Well-Trained King of Strength Boxer

4) Since it’s Western boxing, there won’t be any leg training, right?

One of the most frequently asked questions! I wish you could see the extensive leg workouts we incorporate during our Strength & Conditioning Training! Guys, we don’t use our legs for kicking only. However, we need our legs to be as strong as our upper body. We use our legs for proper footwork, to duck, to move away from our opponent & most importantly, we use the strength of the lower body to transfer the power to the punch. That explains why Boxers do rounds after rounds of skipping!

Tip: Want better punch power? TRAIN YOUR LEGS!

Boxer Performing Intense Leg Training as Part of Strength & Conditioning Routine

5) I’m afraid if my kid learns boxing, he/she will punch someone outside.

We instill discipline in them before even learning the first punch of boxing. At KOS, we believe if discipline is there, learning becomes smoother. As mentioned above, boxing is a beautiful art form, often confused with violence. We want to emphasize that Boxing helps to control your anger management and disciplinary issues, and it’s a great way to relieve stress! You can call us to enquire more about our boxing classes for kids in Singapore.

Young Boxer in Training with Coach, Emphasizing Discipline and Skill Over Violence

6) Girls can do Boxing?

To be honest, girls make great boxers! They have something that almost all guys lack. GRACEFULNESS! Girls who do boxing, remember not to lose that part of you. That makes boxing more of an art.

Fun Fact: For those who trained at KOS, Our Female Boxer Kay was the sparring partner for all our male competitive boxers and she gave them a tough time in the ring!

Two Female Boxers Posing with Boxing Gloves

7) Does Weight Training slow me down?

Weight training definitely is important for boxing. Even our competitive boxers go through a weight training phase as a part of the training plan. Weight training generates explosive power and helps to improve muscle endurance. But here’s the catch: When boxers shift their focus excessively toward aesthetics and adopt a bodybuilding-oriented approach, that’s where things can get tricky. It’s not that pursuing a bodybuilding-style workout is wrong; it’s just crucial to pay attention to your form and avoid potential injuries

Tip: Please cool down & stretch after your weight training to prevent tightness.

Two Boxers Engaged in Weight Training for Muscle Endurance

8) How long do I have to learn Boxing to master it?

Boxing is an ongoing adventure; there’s no need to anticipate the finish line. Instead, relish the continuous learning process. Set small goals to stay motivated and eager for further growth

Tip: Record your Pad work/Sparring videos to compare and understand how much you have improved or how much you have to improve.

Two Boxers in Boxing Stance in the King of Strength Boxing Ring

Woohoo! We have completed the most frequently asked questions of the year! Ask me more questions, and I’LL TURN INTO HULK!

Just joking, guys, I promise I won’t turn into the Hulk – just having a bit of fun here! 😄

We hope we’ve covered all your burning questions about boxing training, but if anything slipped through the cracks, we’re here for you! Just drop us a message and we’ll do our utmost to provide the answers you seek. We’re all about community, and your inquiries drive us forward.

For more details on our schedules and rates, visit our Schedule + Rates page.

Signing off with a first bump,

Head-Coach Kumar

The Final Countdown to the place where everything began!

Posted on 4 April 20186 October 2023 by Kumar Perumal

Cheers to KOS Boxing Gym’s Success: Honoring Our Champions at the Singapore National Boxing Championship

Hi Everyone!

Recently, we had the incredible honor of participating in the Singapore National Boxing Championship, marking King of Strength Boxing Gym’s inaugural entry into this esteemed annual event. Our very own Youth Boxer, Raja, and Development Boxer, Krishna, not only competed but emerged victorious through a Referee Stopping Contest, previously known as T.K.O.

In this debut blog post, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the entire KOS community – our dedicated boxers, unwavering supporters, and well-wishers. Join us as we share the remarkable journey and celebrate the spirit of boxing camaraderie that fuels our passion!

Singapore National Boxing Championship Victory Pose: Youth Boxer Raja and Head Coach of King of Strength

Singapore National Boxing Championship Victory Pose: Development Boxer Krishna and Head Coach of King of Strength

As the Head Coach of KOS, I would like to congratulate both boxers for their victory and thank them for creating another memory at the place where everything began for me: Farrer Park Boxing Gym.

Farrer Park Boxing Gym: Where It All Began

As I reflect on my 11-year journey, which began at Farrer Park Boxing Gym, I can’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and optimism. The Singapore Boxing Federation is relocating from Ruthland Road due to residential redevelopment, marking the end of an era. The 2018 Boxing National Championship served as a fitting farewell, and I’m elated that our boxers have etched another unforgettable memory into the legacy of this place, intertwined with my own training experiences.

To all who have played a role in this remarkable journey, I extend my deepest gratitude! As we bid farewell to this chapter, our hearts are brimming with excitement for what’s to come. Keep an eye out for updates on our upcoming events—we can’t wait to share more boxing adventures with you!

Join our boxing community by exploring our Schedule + Rates page!

Signing off with sincere appreciation and a FIST BUMP,

Head-Coach Kumar