According to recent reports from CCTV, the monitoring of national fitness levels is a critical initiative in the realm of public health and fitness. In 2023, the General Administration of Sport in China launched a pilot program for regular national fitness monitoring across 15 provinces, aiming to transition from a “testing-centered” approach to one focused on “scientific fitness services.” By 2024, this initiative will expand nationwide. As of now, the national fitness monitoring efforts have reached all 31 provinces, with local fitness monitoring stations offering the public access to fitness assessments and scientific exercise guidance.
The fitness assessments cover individuals ranging from ages 3 to 79, with different standards set for various age groups. Fang Fang, a staff member from the Shaanxi Province Sports Science Research Institute and the National Fitness Monitoring Center, explains, “We assess 17 different items, including height, weight, lung capacity, grip strength, back strength, single-leg balance, push-ups, and sit-ups, among others.” These national fitness tests are conducted year-round.
According to the latest monitoring report, which is published every five years, the percentage of the Chinese population meeting or exceeding the qualified fitness level has increased from 87.1% in 2000 to 90.4% in 2020, indicating a steady improvement in national fitness levels. Feng Qiang, Deputy Director of the National Fitness and Scientific Exercise Research Center, pointed out the strong correlation between physical fitness and health. “Through fitness testing, we hope to make more people aware of their physical health status, which will help in preventing chronic diseases and improving overall health.”
In recent years, Yantai, Shandong, has established community-based scientific fitness stations to promote fitness monitoring at the grassroots level, exploring new avenues for disease prevention through sports intervention. Wang Cunting, a resident of the Huanghaimingzhu Community in Yantai, underwent a fitness assessment at the community station in July 2024. He discovered deficiencies in upper body strength, balance, and flexibility. Based on the monitoring results and his diabetes condition, the station’s exercise prescription specialist designed a tailored exercise plan for him.
After each training session, staff members continuously monitor and document Wang’s progress, adjusting his training regimen as needed based on his performance. In 2022, Yantai set up a “Scientific Fitness Station” at the Laishan Huanghailu Community Health Service Center, integrating fitness monitoring with scientific fitness guidance, health education, and chronic disease prevention services, all in conjunction with family doctor contracts. This initiative has transformed the station into a comprehensive health center, attracting more residents to engage in physical activity.
In Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, social sports instructors and volunteer service initiatives are being explored to cultivate consistent, scientifically grounded fitness practices among the populace. During an open teaching day at Nanchang’s Bayi Sports Ground, national-level social sports instructor Ceng Ling led participants in a lively Xinjiang dance class, while traditional martial arts training was also taking place in the park nearby, bringing together people of all ages for physical and mental wellness.
Moreover, in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, government efforts are focused on enhancing public fitness facilities and athletic services so that residents can easily engage in fitness activities to boost their physical health. At the Tang City Wall Ruins Park in Xi’an’s High-tech Zone, numerous table tennis enthusiasts come together to play. With increasing participation, local authorities have responded by adding more table tennis tables to meet the growing demand.
