Fitness enthusiasts practice wuqinxi, an ancient Chinese physical exercise mimicking the movements of five animals, at a qigong event in Bozhou, East China's Anhui Province, on August 7, 2023, a day before China's National Fitness Day. Photo: VCG
Established in 2009, National Fitness Day is celebrated to promote physical activity among the public.Aligning with the Paris Olympics, this year's National Fitness Day presents a unique opportunity to harness the public's enthusiasm for the Games and channel it into widespread participation in fitness activities, as the theme, "National Fitness and the Olympics Together," emphasizes the importance of integrating fitness into daily life and encourages people to engage in regular, science-based exercise.
On this day, numerous sports venues across the country will open their doors to the public for free, allowing the public to explore a wide range of fitness activities. This open-access approach is designed to make physical activity more accessible to everyone and to inspire individuals to find a sport or exercise routine that suits them.
In addition to summer sports, this year's festivities are also promoting winter sports. Activities in Harbin, capital of Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, will focus on these sports as Harbin will be the host city of the Asian Winter Games in February 2025.
While hosting the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, China successfully achieved the goal of getting 300 million people involved in ice and snow activities.
Harbin's hosting of the Asian Winter Games will undoubtedly reinforce this campaign.
The National Fitness Day activities reflect the objectives of the State Council's 2021 version of "National Fitness Plan (2021-2025)," which outlines a vision for a more comprehensive public fitness service system by 2025. This plan aims to enhance convenience, boost participation in various sports, and elevate overall fitness enthusiasm.
Since its implementation, there has been a notable improvement in the accessibility and quality of fitness facilities, and public enthusiasm for health and fitness has steadily increased. This progress represents a significant step forward in achieving a healthier China and a stronger sporting nation.
As Team China continues to excel at the Paris Olympics, it is likely that their achievements will inspire more people to participate in sports activities, especially among the young generations.
The benefits of participating in regular physical activity are profound and multifaceted.
Engaging in exercise not only enhances physical health but also positively impacts cognitive function. Regular physical activity improves concentration and mental clarity, which is particularly beneficial for students. These effects contribute to improved learning efficiency and academic performance among young people. For adults, regular exercise extends productive working hours and boosts overall work efficiency, making it an essential component of a balanced lifestyle.
The National Fitness Day is more than just a day of events. It is also as a powerful reminder of the vital role that sports and exercise have been playing in our daily lives.
By participating in fitness activities, individuals not only contribute to their own well-being but also support the broader goal of fostering a healthier, more active society. This celebration is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Olympic spirit, which emphasizes the importance of physical health, personal achievement and community involvement.
As China marks National Fitness Day, let us embrace the Olympic values of perseverance, excellence, and inclusivity through our commitment to fitness. By doing so, we honor the achievements of the past and pave the way for future generations to enjoy the numerous benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle.
The author is a reporter with the Global Times. [email protected]
