Have you tried stand up paddle boarding? Meet Cheng Si’Jia, stand up paddle boarder. Find out why she loves this sport and what motivates her.
Profile
Sport: Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Name: Cheng Si’Jia
IG handle: @sjchengss
Facebook: Si’Jia
1. When did you discover that stand up paddle boarding (SUP) was your passion and that you were going to pursue it as far as you could?
In the year 2014, I decided to switch to SUP from a multiple sports background like running, track & field and softball.
2. Who were the people that inspired you?
Elangovan, my coach previous coach from track & field, was a role model to us. He coached me since primary school and when I was in polytechnic as well. He never fails to push us to the limit and strive for better results in our lives, be a disciplined person and do your best in whatever sports you choose to join.
Charlotte, my SUP coach- at the age 40+, is still competing and doing what she loves for the sport. Juggling both family and her passion for SUP, she never fails to inspire me to pursue it. My love for the ocean and nature are also motivating factors.
3. Have you participated in any major competition?
Singapore, Japan and Perth
Singapore- Ocean race
Japan- Japan Cup, Kumano SUP race, APP World Tour
Perth- King of the Cut (downwind race)
4. In your opinion, what was your best performance?
The Ocean Cup Race 2017
5. What is your training like when training for a competition?
Interval trainings, cross training, strength and conditioning.
6. Do you maintain a special diet? If so, what do you eat? Are there cheat days?
No. I eat in moderation for all food. Cheat days…definitely!
7. When not training for a competition, what’s your training like? Do you cross-train? What does a typical week look like?
Long paddles and easy intervals training. Yes, I also cross-train: running and cycling. Work schedules are very busy during the week since I’m a healthcare worker. During my off days or after work, I’ll go for a short workout to squeeze in the training needed.
8. Do you see yourself as an inspirational role model for aspiring athletes?
Probably! Juggling both work and sports is not easy, determination and discipline are needed!
9. Where are your favourite training spots?
Both in Singapore and overseas. They offer different conditions in terms of wind and waves. In Singapore, there are no waves to play with.
10. Have you always been fit and fab?
I would say I’ve always been fit since my primary school days.
11. If there are readers who would like to get started in your sport, what advice do you have?
Go out there and enjoy the ocean! No matter what size and shape, have fun on the SUP board!
Stand up paddle boarding looks to be a very interesting sport. We at Sunday Shades thank Si’Jia for taking time to share her interesting story with us. We wish Si’Jia every success as she continues to ride the waves in her favourite sport.