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May 2025

Business

How Solaren’s Integrated Training and Tech Systems Drive Operational Success

Solaren continues to distinguish itself in the security sector through a model that blends rigorous staff training with sophisticated technology systems. This integration has allowed the company to maintain consistent service quality as it expands operations across Tennessee and surrounding regions. Jack Byrd, Solaren’s founder and CEO, has emphasized the importance of internal systems that scale with the company’s growth, ensuring that operational expansion does not compromise reliability or professionalism.

At the heart of this strategy is a proprietary platform used to manage documents, schedules, timesheets, and internal communications. This centralized system enables real-time coordination among Solaren’s teams, many of whom operate in field conditions. By consolidating information into a single interface, the company has reduced administrative delays and minimized error rates. Contractors benefit from immediate access to relevant job details, while supervisors can ensure policy compliance and operational efficiency at every site.

This technology platform is complemented by an extensive in-person training regimen. Courses are led by professionals with active law enforcement experience, grounding the material in practical application. Sessions cover report writing, emergency medical techniques, and legal protocols. The training ensures that every team member meets a baseline of competency, while also preparing them for scenarios that require rapid decision-making and adherence to legal standards. This approach has proven particularly effective during deployments for major events and high-risk environments.

Employee retention is another area where Solaren’s approach stands out. The firm prioritizes consistent recognition of performance, culminating in an annual review process that rewards top performers with financial bonuses and public acknowledgment. These practices foster a culture of merit and recognition, creating an internal environment where professionalism is both expected and rewarded. The approach also enhances employee morale, which translates into higher standards of service delivery for clients.

Solaren’s operational readiness was tested during Hurricane Milton, when the company quickly mobilized patrol units and a command center to assist with on-the-ground security. Thanks to the company’s internal systems and staff preparedness, the deployment was carried out with minimal disruption. Clients praised Solaren for its responsiveness and coordination, further reinforcing its reputation as a reliable partner in complex situations. The experience also highlighted the benefits of having a dual emphasis on training and technology, as both played a role in the smooth execution of the response.

Jack Byrd’s continued investment in internal infrastructure and staff development reflects a clear strategic vision for Solaren. Rather than relying solely on expansion or external tools, the company is building a resilient foundation that supports long-term growth. This foundation is evident in the systems that guide day-to-day operations and the people who carry them out. As the security landscape evolves, Solaren’s dual focus on scalable systems and capable personnel positions it to meet future challenges with consistency and professionalism.

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Health

Maximise Every Ride: How to Get the Most Out of Your Indoor Spin Class in Singapore

Indoor cycling has surged in popularity across Singapore, with more people than ever hopping onto a bike in search of a high-energy, results-driven workout. Whether you’re new to fitness or already attending classes weekly, there’s always room to optimise your performance and results from an indoor spin class.

Spin isn’t just about pedalling to music—it’s a powerful workout that, when done correctly, can boost endurance, sculpt muscles, and leave you mentally recharged. But like any training format, your results depend on how you approach it. Let’s explore the smartest ways to maximise every ride and transform your indoor cycling experience.

Preparation Starts Before You Ride

Eat and Hydrate Right

Fuel is essential for peak spin performance. In Singapore’s humid climate, even indoor workouts can lead to heavy sweating. It’s important to:

  • Drink 1–2 cups of water 1 hour before class
  • Avoid heavy meals; opt for light carbs and protein 90 minutes prior (e.g. banana with peanut butter)
  • Rehydrate with electrolytes if you sweat excessively

Proper hydration reduces fatigue, helps maintain form, and enhances calorie burn throughout the class.

Arrive Early to Set Up Properly

Bike setup is more than a technicality—it’s key to injury prevention and comfort. Always ensure:

  • Your saddle is level with your hip bone
  • Your handlebar is at a comfortable height to prevent back strain
  • Your knees are slightly bent at the bottom of your pedal stroke

Ask the instructor if you’re unsure. A few adjustments can completely change your ride quality.

Studios like TFX offer well-maintained equipment and helpful staff to guide you through the setup process, especially if you’re new or returning after a break.

Mindset Matters: Show Up with a Goal

Each indoor spin class is a fresh opportunity to challenge yourself. Set a simple goal before every ride, such as:

  • Holding a steady cadence during climbs
  • Pushing through every sprint without slowing
  • Staying present and mindful throughout the session

Setting small goals improves focus and gives you a sense of accomplishment after each class.

During Class: Ride Smart, Not Just Hard

Listen to the Instructor—but Also Your Body

The instructor’s cues help keep the class on pace and motivated, but always tune into how your body feels. If you’re struggling to keep up, drop the resistance slightly and recover, then rejoin the group when ready.

Don’t Ignore the Resistance Dial

One of the most common mistakes in indoor spin classes is riding with too little resistance. Not only does this reduce muscle engagement, but it also puts strain on your knees due to lack of control.

Use resistance intentionally to:

  • Simulate climbs and strengthen glutes and thighs
  • Increase intensity without needing more speed
  • Prevent bouncing in the saddle

Focus on Your Form

Proper posture and muscle activation make every spin session more effective. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Engage your core to protect your lower back
  • Relax your shoulders and grip
  • Keep your knees aligned with your toes while pedalling

Good form ensures you’re working the right muscles and staying safe throughout the ride.

Use Music as Your Performance Driver

Music is more than background noise in a spin class—it’s the rhythm that drives your performance. Let the beat guide your pedal strokes. Instructors usually match track tempo to cadence goals, so syncing with the music enhances both intensity and enjoyment.

Let the music:

  • Push you during sprints
  • Help you maintain rhythm in steady-state intervals
  • Keep your mind focused and engaged

Engage Mentally: Treat It Like Therapy

An indoor spin class isn’t just a workout—it’s a stress reliever. Many Singaporeans treat their spin time as “me time”, a mental escape from daily noise. Embrace that mental reset by:

  • Closing your eyes during steady rides (if safe to do so)
  • Letting go of to-do lists and external worries
  • Focusing on breath, movement, and the music

This mindfulness approach leaves you not only fitter but mentally lighter too.

Post-Class Recovery: What You Do After Matters

Cool Down and Stretch

Don’t skip the cooldown. These last 5 minutes help:

  • Lower your heart rate gradually
  • Prevent blood pooling in the legs
  • Reduce muscle soreness the next day

Stretch your quads, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and hip flexors after each class to maintain flexibility and reduce tightness.

Nutrition and Hydration

Your body needs fuel to repair and recover. Within 45 minutes of your class, consume:

  • A protein-rich meal or smoothie (e.g. eggs, chicken wrap, Greek yoghurt)
  • Fluids with electrolytes if you had an intense sweat session

Consistent recovery helps you perform better in your next class and minimises fatigue.

Track Your Progress

Many spin bikes display stats like:

  • Distance
  • Calories burned
  • Average cadence
  • Resistance levels

Use these numbers to track improvement over time. Even if you’re not chasing weight loss, it’s motivating to see performance gains, especially in endurance and output.

Extra Tips to Get the Best Results from Your Spin Routine

  • Cross-train once a week: Add yoga or strength training to prevent overuse injuries and keep things fresh
  • Invest in padded shorts or spin shoes: Comfort goes a long way in helping you focus on performance
  • Ride with a buddy: Accountability and a bit of friendly competition make classes more enjoyable
  • Try different instructors: Each brings a unique energy, format, and musical style
  • Join themed classes: Some studios run special rides like 90s music or blackout rides to keep things exciting

Real-Life FAQ

Q: How many indoor spin classes per week are ideal for results?
A: For most people, 2 to 3 sessions per week is optimal. This allows enough recovery while maintaining consistency. If you’re seasoned and recovering well, 4 to 5 is fine.

Q: Can I attend an indoor spin class if I have back pain?
A: Yes, with proper bike setup and form. Raise your handlebars and engage your core. If pain persists, consult a physiotherapist before continuing.

Q: What’s the best time of day to attend spin classes in Singapore?
A: It depends on your schedule. Mornings offer an energetic start, while evenings help destress. Choose the time you’re most likely to stick with.

Q: Do I need to buy my own spin shoes?
A: Most studios provide them, but having your own ensures better fit and hygiene. It also improves power transfer for more efficient pedalling.

Q: How long until I see visible results from spin classes?
A: You’ll likely feel stronger and have better stamina within 2 weeks. Visible muscle tone and fat loss usually appear after 4–6 consistent weeks, especially when paired with good nutrition.

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Tech

Solaren Expands Capabilities to Serve Government and Municipal Clients

Solaren has steadily increased its footprint among government and municipal clients, responding to the unique needs of public-sector operations with adaptable and compliant security services. Working across city, county, and state levels, the company delivers a comprehensive suite of offerings that range from personnel deployment and traffic control to advanced surveillance systems. This consistent presence in public contracts has allowed Solaren to become a trusted partner for agencies requiring reliable, scalable, and responsive support tailored to public infrastructure and civic operations.

Government entities often require enhanced vetting, detailed reporting, and strict policy compliance. Solaren’s structured approach aligns with these expectations, ensuring that officers deployed to public-sector roles meet procedural standards and legal requirements. Assignments such as courthouse entry screening, water treatment facility monitoring, and city administration building oversight are all carried out with an emphasis on transparency and accountability. These responsibilities demand not only awareness of local laws and ordinances but also interpersonal skills that support a respectful public interface.

To further support municipal partners, Solaren integrates real-time analytics and AI-supported monitoring through its partnership with REKOR AI. These tools provide additional visibility around public buildings, transportation corridors, and critical access points. The REKOR systems collect actionable insights, which allow agencies to proactively address threats, monitor compliance, and improve safety outcomes without increasing manpower. Solaren’s ability to pair these systems with physical security teams enables a more strategic use of limited public resources and builds redundancy into government operations.

In rural jurisdictions or during temporary assignments such as elections or public works projects, Solaren supplements personnel with LiveView Technologies’ mobile surveillance trailers. These units can be placed at public parks, polling stations, or roadwork sites, offering a deterrent against vandalism and unauthorized access. The solar-powered systems are quick to deploy and provide uninterrupted monitoring, which supports public confidence while reducing the burden on local agencies. The cameras are managed remotely by Solaren’s operations center and offer immediate playback capabilities for investigations or compliance reviews.

Beyond deployment, Solaren provides pre-engagement assessments to help agencies determine the appropriate security footprint for their sites. These evaluations are particularly important when coordinating with multiple departments or contractors. Solaren’s project managers assist with scheduling, documentation, and compliance tracking to ensure that city or county leaders maintain control over their public safety obligations. As a result, Solaren supports not just security, but also operational continuity across a wide range of services.

The company’s responsiveness and flexibility have made it particularly well-suited to serve municipalities facing shifting priorities and tight budgets. Solaren offers short-term contracts, scalable coverage, and structured reporting that align with procurement processes. Agencies have noted the reliability and professionalism of the company’s staff, as well as the benefit of having a single vendor manage both traditional security and technology integration under a unified command structure. This streamlined approach reduces communication overhead and accelerates response times across departments.

Solaren’s ongoing success in the public sector is built not just on capacity but on consistency. Its approach to municipal service prioritizes accountability, adaptability, and ongoing communication with clients. Through repeat engagements and long-term contracts, the company has reinforced its role as a dependable force multiplier for agencies charged with safeguarding public assets and managing events. This reliability has helped solidify Solaren’s position as a preferred provider for institutions that require both strategic oversight and frontline performance across a range of civic functions.

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Home

Double door refrigerators: The smart family investment transforming kitchens in 2025

Big families, bigger storage – Top double door picks for 2025

In busy households, a refrigerator is more than just a storage space, it’s the heart of the kitchen.  From storing leftovers and snacks to stocking weekly groceries to keep kids’ snacks ready, we rely on our refrigerators to help us get through the day smoothly. Double door fridges are a popular choice in the market due to their blend of energy efficiency, storage capacity, and dependable cooling. Whether you have a large family or cook in bulk, or someone who likes their fridge well-stocked, a double-door refrigerator provides you with the space and convenience you need. So, let us look at the top 2025 double door fridge models to find the perfect fit for your family.

  1. LG GL-T382TPZX 443-Litre Double-Door Refrigerator

With a massive 443-litre storage space, this refrigerator is ideal for large families. Not to mention, you can convert its freezer to get additional fridge space. Plus, with Door Cooling+ technology, it offers even cooling for items stored near the door. The smart inverter compressor of this refrigerator ensures energy savings while reducing noise. So, whether it’s storing groceries for the week or keeping snacks fresh, this fridge handles it all effortlessly.

  1. Samsung RT42C5532S8/HL 385-Litre Double-Door Refrigerator

Equipped with 5-in-1 convertible modes, this Samsung double-door fridge adapts to your needs. With three tempered glass shelves, four door racks, an egg tray, and a fruit and veggie basket, it can easily accommodate your daily meal prep and grocery supplies.

  1. Haier HRB-4952BIS-P 445-Litre Double-Door Refrigerator

Engineered for joint families or those who cook in bulk, the 445-litre Haier fridge offers a surprisingly spacious layout. The standout feature? A separate fruit box, which fits everything from seasonal specials to bulk-bought fruits without cramming. In addition, with triple inverter technology, this refrigerator ensures consistent cooling with minimal power bills.

  1. Whirlpool Intellifresh Pro 312-Litre Double-Door Refrigerator

If your family loves to stock up on fresh produce for the week, the Whirlpool Intellifresh Pro is a great ally. With a 312-litre capacity and toughened glass shelves that can easily hold heavy containers, it’s built for the demands of everyday family life. What truly sets it apart is its Microblock technology, which helps reduce up to 99% of bacterial growth. That means your fruits and veggies stay fresh for longer, resulting in less wastage, fewer grocery runs, and more peace of mind every time you open the fridge.

Big families come with big appetites and bigger fridge needs. From storing groceries to handling snack raids, a refrigerator should be well-equipped to handle the modern routine. Therefore, it’s essential that when you upgrade to a double door fridge, it should be correctly sized and feature-rich. The ideal refrigerator should not only reduce grocery runs and food waste but also meal prep stress by providing all ingredients within reach and ample space to accommodate them. Remember the right fridge needn’t be the most expensive one, but rather more aligned to your family’s usage patterns.

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