Dr. Ng Wai Vern is a woman of remarkable dedication, seamlessly blending her demanding career as a dentist with her fervent passion for Muay Thai. Her story is one of resilience, meticulous planning, and an unyielding pursuit of balance.
The Balancing Act
When asked how she manages to juggle her dental practice with her Muay Thai training, Dr. Ng emphasizes the importance of effective time management and prioritization. “At work, I focus on delivering top-notch care to my patients. Outside of work, Muay Thai is essential for staying fit, managing stress, and pursuing something I’m passionate about,” she explains.
Her typical day is a testament to her disciplined routine. Dr. Ng’s mornings once started as early as 6 AM with a run, followed by a full day at the dental clinic. Evenings were reserved for intense Muay Thai training, ending her day around 11 PM. Though she has since stepped back from competitive fighting, this rigorous routine instilled in her a sense of discipline that continues to influence her approach to both her work and personal life.
Overcoming Challenges
Balancing two demanding careers inevitably comes with its challenges. During her competitive training days, Dr. Ng faced significant time management hurdles. To prepare for fights, she would often use her annual leave for two-week training stints in Thailand, pushing herself to the brink of exhaustion. Realizing this approach was unsustainable, she transitioned from competitive fighting to coaching, allowing her to maintain her connection to the sport while focusing on her dental practice.
“I am now actively involved in part-time coaching for the Penang team,” she shares. This role requires her to travel to Penang as needed, integrating her passion for Muay Thai with her professional responsibilities.
The Power of Prioritization
Dr. Ng’s ability to prioritize is a cornerstone of her balanced lifestyle. “I ensure my body receives ample rest and recovery,” she says. On days off, she limits activities to focus on recuperating from intense training sessions. She also highlights the unwavering support of her husband and the cherished moments they spend together, such as morning runs with their dogs.
Memorable Moments and Proudest Achievements
Reflecting on her Muay Thai career, Dr. Ng recalls participating in 12 amateur and 11 professional fights across various locations in Malaysia. One particularly memorable experience was a month-long solo training trip to Thailand, where she fought without protective gear in a bar on Pattaya’s Walking Street. This experience, coupled with her participation in a significant Malaysian ranking fight, are highlights of her journey.
Her proudest achievement, however, extends beyond the ring. Muay Thai sparked a newfound love for fitness and running, leading her to participate in six half-marathons and a challenging 33km marathon. These accomplishments symbolize her dedication and personal growth.
Influence on Dentistry
Muay Thai has profoundly influenced Dr. Ng’s approach to her dental practice. “The sport’s emphasis on gradual improvement has shown me the power of consistent effort and focused attention,” she says. Starting Muay Thai in her 20s taught her that it’s never too late to pursue what you love, a lesson that emboldened her to establish her own practice.
Training Regime and Recovery
Dr. Ng’s training regime during her competitive days was intense, with six-day weeks and multiple daily sessions. She continues to maintain her fitness through daily morning runs and evening gym routines, prioritizing rest to ensure long-term health.
Diet and recovery are equally crucial. During fight preparations, her diet was highly restrictive, focusing solely on eggs. Now, she prioritizes a balanced approach to health, nourishing her body with a variety of foods to support her well-being.
Inspiration and Advice
Dr. Ng’s journey with Muay Thai began in 2014 when she sought an outlet from the demands of her new job as a dental officer. The discipline and resilience she gained from the sport have been invaluable in her dental practice.
Muay Thai taught me the value of discipline, conditioning my mind, body, and spirit,
she reflects
For those trying to balance a demanding career with a passion for sports or other activities, Dr. Ng advises careful planning, dedication, and maintaining a positive mindset. Her story is a powerful reminder that with commitment and passion, it is possible to integrate different aspects of one’s life into a harmonious whole.
Dr. Ng Wai Vern’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, discipline, and the pursuit of balance. Her ability to excel in both dentistry and Muay Thai serves as an inspiration to all who strive to find harmony between their professional and personal lives.
