HONG KONG – A member of the local band ROVER has traded his microphone for dumbbells and emerged victorious in a major fitness competition, surprising fans and industry insiders alike. Chen Zhen-heng, known affectionately as “Heng Zai,” clinched the championship at the HKUBA All-Hong Kong Secondary School and Tertiary Institution Fitness Competition, marking his debut in the sport with a decisive win.
The 25-year-old singer underwent a grueling transformation under the guidance of Ocean Leung, the husband of actress Li Qi-wen. Leung, a certified fitness coach, designed a punishing “hell-style” training program to prepare Heng for the contest. The intensive regimen included daily weightlifting sessions, strict nutritional planning, and cardiovascular conditioning, all aimed at sculpting a competition-ready physique.
Heng’s victory was announced via social media posts from both the singer and his coach, who shared photos of the champion holding his trophy and flexing his newly developed muscles. The posts quickly went viral, with fans dubbing him the “Attacking Chen Zhen-heng” in reference to his aggressive physical transformation. The nickname plays on his boyish image as a ROVER member, contrasting sharply with his now-ripped appearance.
“I never imagined I could achieve this in my first attempt,” Heng stated in a post-competition interview. “The training was brutal, but Ocean kept pushing me even when I wanted to quit. I owe this win entirely to him.” Coach Leung reciprocated the praise, noting that Heng’s discipline and work ethic were exceptional. “He never missed a session, never complained, and absorbed every instruction,” Leung said.
The HKUBA competition, which draws amateur athletes from middle schools, universities, and vocational institutions across Hong Kong, is known for rigorous judging criteria that evaluate muscle definition, symmetry, and overall presentation. Heng competed in the men’s open category, facing more experienced contenders. According to event organizers, his performance in the mandatory poses and free routines earned him top marks from a panel of international judges.
Industry observers see Heng’s win as a potential boost for ROVER’s public profile. The band, which rose to prominence in the local indie scene, has been working on new material. While Heng’s fitness commitment temporarily diverted his attention from music, band members expressed full support. “We’re incredibly proud of him,” said a band representative. “This shows the same dedication he brings to the stage.”
Health experts caution that extreme bodybuilding regimes should only be undertaken with professional supervision. The Hong Kong Sports Institute recommends that amateur athletes undergo comprehensive health screenings before starting such programs. For those inspired by Heng’s journey, starting with measured strength training and gradual caloric adjustments is advised.
Moving forward, Heng plans to balance his music career with occasional fitness competitions, though he has not committed to a full schedule. “For now, I’m focusing on the band’s upcoming album. But if another competition comes up, I’ll definitely consider it,” he said. His coach Ocean Leung hinted at potential training workshops for aspiring fitness enthusiasts, leveraging the publicity from Heng’s victory.
The story of a pop star’s foray into bodybuilding underscores a growing trend in Hong Kong where celebrities are increasingly diversifying into fitness, blending entertainment with athletic achievement. Heng’s debut victory may well inspire a new wave of crossover participation in the city’s amateur sports scene.
