Recently, Zhang Yibing, a 62-year-old resident of Changchun, Jilin, has been frequently visiting a dry snow area to practice his jumping skills. Clad in his gear, he launches himself off a jump ramp over ten meters high, twisting in mid-air for a 180 or 360-degree spin, all while striving to secure his snowboard and make a smooth landing.
“Practice makes perfect—I’m determined to keep trying,” he shared as his silver hair stood out in the crowd. Preparations for the new snow season’s big jump ramps and slope tricks have kept him busy for over a month, and he has even been hitting the gym for extra training.
Aside from traditional activities like square dancing, tai chi, and aerobics, some seniors are taking a liking to more intense workouts. Weightlifting, gymnastics on bars, cycling, and marathons have become increasingly popular among older adults. Statistics reveal a growing number of participants over 60 in China’s major marathon events, even sparking discussions among younger generations online.
Jilin Province, renowned for its abundant powder snow resources, has become a haven for skiing enthusiasts. While winter sports like high-speed jumps typically attract younger athletes, Zhang Yibing has successfully made a name for himself in various competitions due to his agility and solid foundational skills.
“The goal of sports is to pursue health while also testing one’s willpower, regardless of age,” Zhang emphasized. He began skiing at 40 and has dedicated more time to structured training since retirement. “I feel great health-wise—no high blood pressure or cholesterol issues—and I’m setting a good example for my granddaughter on the slopes.”
Closer to his seventies, Sun Jianwei, a passionate winter swimming advocate and the head of the Jilin City Winter Swimming Association, aims to continue swimming through the Songhua River this winter. He has held the record for crossing a section of the river for an extended period and now trains daily at the winter swimming base. “Consistency is key; you have to swim in summer and autumn as well,” he noted, mentioning that his association boasts over 2,000 members, with more than half over the age of 65, the oldest being 89.
“Winter swimming really pushes physical limits. We don’t compete over results; we prioritize health,” he explained, securing a life buoy to his waist as he and friends entered the water once more.
In Jilin City, 67-year-old Liu Yunhe has gained fame as the “Yoga Grandpa.” He has garnered a significant following on social media platforms after practicing yoga in his yoga outfit against the stunning backdrop of rime ice. “Exercising in harsh weather builds willpower, but you also have to know your limits,” Liu advised.
Experts suggest that as China’s economy continues to grow, the increase in sports facilities provides seniors with a broader range of fitness choices. However, they caution that evaluating personal health is crucial when selecting more challenging activities to avoid potential risks.
