Peng Soon just can’t say no to laksa
Olympian admits he loses control when it comes to local delicacy in Penang
KUALA LUMPUR: Just like everyone else, athletes do give in to food cravings.
For national shuttler Chan Peng Soon, he just can’t say no to a steamy bowl of assam laksa.
“That is why I dread having matches in Penang. Whenever I go back, I just can’t stop myself,” said Chan, who hails from Ayer Itam, Penang, home of the famous Pasar Air Itam Laksa.
The Rio 2016 Olympics silver medallist admitted that he loves food such as laksa, char kuey
teow and fried kangkung belacan – all of which do not fall under the list of “healthy” food a national athlete should be having.
But the 28-year-old badminton star knows how to rein in those cravings.
“When I am thinking about eating something oily or ‘heaty’, I will go get healthy food, such as rice.
“Once my stomach is filled up, the urges stop,” the cheerful Olympian told The Star in an interview.
Chan admitted that he does not follow a strict diet plan and would occasionally indulge in food he enjoys.
“Do not take too much oily food. If I have fried chicken in the morning, then I will avoid oily food at night.
“That is how I balance my diet,” he shared.
To keep fit, the Penangite exercises nearly up to eight hours a day.
And – get this – Chan believes anyone can achieve his level of fitness.
“The key is to take care of your body. Drink more water and do not over-exert yourself. Only then can you continue exercising,” he said.
He pointed out that over-ambitious newbies may sometimes make the mistake of wanting to “do too much too quickly”.
“Do not attempt to increase your running pace every day. Your body may not have adjusted itself to the exertion.
“If you can run for 15 minutes, continue to do so the next day, and the next until your body is used to it.
“Then up it to 20 minutes. That is how I believe everyone can improve themselves,” he said.
Chan and his comrade-inarms Goh Liu Ying brought pride to the nation by snagging Malaysia’s first Olympic medal in mixed doubles badminton in Rio de Janeiro in August.
He is married to local singer Ester Cham May May and they have a son and a daughter.
For more tips on eating well and keeping healthy, visit the FitForLife Penang fair next weekend.
A diverse range of health and lifestyle products and services under one roof is available to people of all ages.
This year’s theme Get Fit, Live Great! is to inspire Malaysians to lead a healthy lifestyle and adopt a holistic approach that includes physical and mental fitness, financial health and general fitness.
FitForLife Penang 2016 is organised by Star Media Group with Great Eastern Life as the event partner. Other sponsors include Nestle Omega Plus (wellness sponsor) and Guardian (healthcare provider).