Apart from traditional ways to keep fit, like Taichi, there are state-of-the-art gyms. You find them in every corner of the city.
Beijing has many fitness centers. The major hotels have their own. But even outside the hotels, there's always one nearby in almost every community. There's a big youth market. Young people are avid followers of overall fitness, body building, and relaxation. And there's lots of competition at fitness clubs to have the most up to date facilities. There are the stairsteppers and treadmills, body building machines and stationary bicycles. There are fitness instructors to provide professional training where it's needed.
Mainly clubs operate on a yearly membership, but they also welcome visitors on a pay as you go basis.
Most fitness clubs have gymnasiums. There are plentiful classes in gymnastics, dance, yoga and pilates.
There's taekwondo. All of these are a big draw for young people, who like to workout in groups. There are also clubs where the focus is exclusively on either yoga or pilates.
At the sports centres you find in almost every district, you can play badminton, volleyball, basketball and football. But the most complete exercise, remains swimming. And you'll find a swimming pool at every major sports centre. The pools offer a good escape from the heat.
Beijing is going at its daily fitness routines with increased vigor thanks to the coming of the Olympics. If you train and like to keep fit, no reason to take a rest while you're here. There're lots of places to go.
(CCTV August 16, 2008)
