Step Right Up

Parks, walking or jogging trails and park connector networks connect multiple neighbourhood estates, and all of them offer a slightly different variety of flora and fauna. Spend the weekend exploring these green spaces on foot, and take in the sights at a comfortable pace while clocking your steps.

Related: Fun Fitness Activities in Singapore You Might Have Overlooked

North Eastern Riverine Loop^[1]:

This scenic 16km route meanders along the Punggol and Serangoon rivers, and includes an optional detour into Coney Island. Elevated bridges such as the Kelong Bridge at Punggol Waterway Park will help raise your heart rate as you ascend the inclines, while offering a vantage point to spot wildlife during your walk or run. The trail is home to various species of heron, monitor lizards, and if you’re very lucky — a family of otters.

The North Eastern Riverine Loop is easily accessible from neighbourhoods such as Buangkok, Punggol, Sengkang and Hougang, so you can workout at the segment closest to home. There are multiple entry points, but the one at Punggol Park, which is a 10-15 minute walk from Buangkok MRT, is probably the easiest to access via public transport. Punggol Park is located at the junction of Hougang Avenue 8 and 10^[2].

Taken from NParks Guide: North Eastern Riverine.

Southern Ridges^[3]:

 

Take a hike along the 10km route that connects five different parks — Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve. The segments vary in difficulty, so you can pick the one that suits your fitness level. For instance, the Marang trail in Mount Faber park covers an elevation of 70m, or the equivalent of a 24-storey building, so this trail may not be suitable for young children or the elderly.

An easier and no less scenic segment is the Henderson Waves, which connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. The artistic wave-like structure stands 36m above Henderson Road and is great for photos, picnics, or a stroll.

The Southern Ridges trail can be accessed via Labrador Park, Pasir Panjang or Harbourfront MRT stations.

Related: Keep Fit While Waiting in Line

MacRitchie Tree Top Walk^[4]:

Take in a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy from the 250m suspension bridge, your reward at the end of a moderately challenging 6km round-trip trail. The route includes undulating terrain with steep slopes at certain points, so wear a suitable pair of sneakers, and don’t forget the insect repellent!

While on the trail, look out for flora and fauna such as the Cheng Tng tree, which has seeds containing spongy fibres that are used in the local dessert. The forest is also home to animals such as the Clouded Monitor Lizard, Plantain Squirrel and Common Sun Skink.

To get there, take a bus to the trail’s entrance, alighting at the ESSO station just before the junction of Venus Drive, Upper Thomson Road and Sin Ming Avenue.

Taken from NParks Guide: A Guide To Walking Trail At The TreeTop Walk.

East Coast Park^[5]:

You'll have more than enough coastline to get your workout done at East Coast Park, which offers 15km of scenic coastline to walk or run. Designated walking or running trails separate foot traffic from cyclists, and these paths can even link you to Marina Barrage and Gardens by the Bay.

For a fun family activity, pitch a tent for the weekend and set up a barbecue after you’ve walked or jogged up an appetite! To get there, take a bus to one of the various stops along East Coast Parkway and East Coast Park Service Road.

Download the HealthHub app on Google Play or Apple Store to access more health and wellness advice at your fingertips.

Read these next:

• Hiking Trails in Singapore
• Looking to Clock More Steps? Check out Sentosa's Nature Heritage Walk
• The Surprising Health Benefits of 10,000 Steps
• 10,000 Steps a Day? Go Shopping or a Holiday