Seniors stepping up to the plate
When thinking of physical fitness, the image of a muscular young man in a gym may come to mind at first, rather than that of an elderly person with gray hair exercising on fitness equipment. However, fitness doesn't just belong to the younger generation in China. Seniors are also active in fashionable fitness routines, such as working out in gyms and running marathons.
Bai Jinqin, 71, from the northern port city of Tianjin, has been working out since 2005, when she began practicing yoga: "I had a severe sickness that year. After leaving the hospital I started doing physical training. Regaining my health made me realize how important and precious it is."
She now visits a gym six times a week, receiving professional training for an hour every session: "I've made big progress this year - my muscles are growing, my fat levels are falling and my cardio-pulmonary function is becoming stronger. As a result of being fit, I seldom catch cold and I maintain a good figure."
