Strive is my solution to the teenage obesity epidemic. The so-called tipping point came when I was looking at my eighth-grade graduation photographs. Posing alongside my friends for my picture, I looked comparatively short and pudgy, and morbid.

My self-image had taken a battering that day through a photograph. I barely recognized myself. I did not want to go on looking and feeling that way. I had to make it count, for myself.

It started with me trying various controlled calorie diets, and following different types of workouts. My repeated Google searches were to no avail. I knew that I was working toward a goal to become leaner and fitter but answers were eluding me.

There were no ready-made solutions or answers available, as diets and workouts were often those targeted at adults. I realized I had to find my own answer if I was going to make the change I wanted.

I spoke to nutritionists, worked out with credible trainers, and closely observed the fitness regimens of other teens. I generated a personalized plan. Through trial and error, I found the balance between strength training, cardio, and eating right. Healthy eating was encouraging my personal and psychological growth. I could see a positive change at the end of summer.

I could not have done this alone. My parents are my strength, backing me every step of the way. I was lucky to gain sound advice from Nik, who runs Phyzique Singapore and is my mentor, friend, and guide. He saw my passion and gave me an opportunity to learn with him. I took him through the program I was working on and he helped to fine-tune it with his expertise as an exceptional fitness trainer. 

I have been interning with him since 2015 and could not have had a better understanding of how my body responds to each exercise. Ria Mehta, an SAS alumna believed in my vision, helped me code the app, design the logo for Strive, and ultimately worked with me to release the pilot on the App Store through her organization Skill Rail.

As my idea started to transition into reality, Mr. Adkison and Ms. Pong directed my learning toward a structured and tangible product. Mr. Steigerwald’s belief in my dream was a positive stamp of approval. This guidance and journey has now culminated in a tangible product where I am able to give back to my peers and provide for them what ceased to exist for me—a combination of curated workouts, measured nutrition advice, and tailored health guidelines.

Say hello to Strive! An app designed for all teens to help them develop a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

It has been an amazing start to an arduous personal journey and now includes my community.

Come, share my learning and let me help you become the best version of you. Download my fitness app—TheStriveapp on the App Store. Join the FB page—@strivefitnessapp for regular updates.

Reach out, look for me in the SAS hallways, and come and tell me how it benefits you. I want all feedback, criticism, and learning to make it perfect for all of us.

After all, I am one of you! Strive on! Never Settle!