Making fitness fun for kids

Olympics, down from around 900 ahead of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, according to Luo Chaoyi, former director of the National Gymnastics Administrative Center.

“We are not sure if the current talent pool will be strong enough to support our campaign after Tokyo for the 2024 Olympics,” said Luo, who was elected a vice-president of the International Gymnastics Federation in October.

Citing the model of around 4,000 gymnastics clubs in the United States, Luo said it’s necessary to change the public perception in China that gymnastics is only for aspiring professionals.

“In the first place, it should be fun, accessible and rich in educational value,” he said.

With the country stridently promoting diversity in physical education, Zou sensed the opportunity has come to give gymnastics a push by introducing basic body exercises based on fun and interactive training to kindergartens and preschool institutions.

“Basic gymnastics practice actually fits in the physical development of children aged 3 to 7 years,” said Zou.

“It’s not about learning difficult routines; it features exercises and games that help build flexibility, coordination and a general interest in sports.”

Zou initiated a startup program in his home city of Luzhou, Sichuan province, in early 2017 to promote preschool gymnastics, supported by local sports and culture authorities.

The program provides tailor-made courses for young participants, facilitated by Zou and his former Olympic teammates at commercial and public venues.

Zou’s effort has been embraced by the sport’s governing body.

Initiated by the National Gymnastics Administrative Center, the Recreational Gymnastics project, a nationwide program tailored for children, with customized equipment and courses, was launched in 73 pilot schools and institutions in seven provinces and municipalities by the end of 2017.