Chinese New Year — the Year of the Fire Horse — arrived with power, intensity, and a little bit of drama… just as it’s known to.
As a fitness instructor, I’ve always believed in strength, resilience, and showing up no matter what. But this year, the celebration didn’t just come with fireworks and red lanterns — it came with a bang I didn’t expect.
Severe food poisoning.
Instead of festive visits and prosperity tosses, I found myself lying at our family doctor’s clinic, hooked up to drips, completely drained. For someone who is always on the move, always training, always motivating others — being forced to stop was humbling.
The Fire Horse energy is bold, different, and unapologetically intense. And this start to the year? It was exactly that. Different. Unexpected. A little wild.
But everything happens for a reason.
That week of recovery became more than just physical healing. It was a reset. A reminder that even the strongest bodies need rest. Even the most disciplined minds need stillness. Even coaches need recovery.
It took me a full week to bounce back. A week to rebuild my strength. A week to refocus. A week to realign.
And when I came back — I came back stronger.
Stronger in body.
Stronger in mindset.
Stronger in gratitude.
The Year of the Fire Horse didn’t ease in quietly. It tested me immediately. But as in fitness and in life, resistance builds resilience.
This year isn’t about a gentle start.
It’s about power.
It’s about transformation.
It’s about rising — even after being knocked flat.
And I’m ready.
Back on my feet.
Back in the studio.
Restarted.
Refocused.
Stronger than ever.
chrisywong.com 