CHONGQING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Frog jumps, crawling, jogging, and weightlifting -- these are the daily three-hour workout regimen of Zou Heping, a 70-year-old fitness enthusiast from southwestern China's Chongqing Municipality.
Among China's aging population, Zou stands out as a beacon of vitality and optimism, and his commitment to physical fitness and his youthful spirit have captured widespread attention online, inspiring countless seniors to discover joy and fulfillment in their twilight years.
Amid the ongoing demographic shift in China, where the number of people aged 60 and above had reached nearly 300 million by the end of 2023, the narrative of aging is often linked with decline and dependency.
Zou, however, challenges this stereotype, demonstrating that aging can be a period of growth, vitality and boundless possibilities.
"I began fitness training decades ago, which not only strengthened my physique but also sharpened my willpower," Zou said, mentioning his daily routine of morning runs and carrying heavy buckets of water to work.
Even after his retirement in 2008, he did not slow down -- instead, he intensified his dedication to fitness, investing even more time in a variety of exercises.
Gele Mountain in Chongqing has become Zou's preferred training ground, where he pushes himself in climbing the 2,500 steps that lead to the summit.
Completing the ascent in just one hour and descending in 50 minutes, Zou often overtakes younger hikers. "This proves that age is just a number," Zou said with pride.
Zou attributes his youthful appearance and robust health to his consistent dedication to exercise and a balanced low-salt, low-oil diet that is also rich in vegetables and fruits.
"I encourage all seniors to embrace an active lifestyle. Age should not be a barrier to pursuing one's passions and dreams," Zou said, emphasizing that with determination and hard work, one can lead a fulfilling life filled with laughter, love and purpose, even in one's later years.
In the face of China's aging population, Zou offers a hopeful vision of aging -- one that is not defined by decline but by continuous growth, joy, and the relentless pursuit of well-being.
This vision is gradually becoming a broader reality. According to the Chongqing municipal civil affairs bureau, the city has established more than 9,000 elderly sports organizations at various levels, with over 4.2 million senior citizens in Chongqing regularly participating in physical fitness activities. ■
