Running takes long strides for health, tech and economy

China Daily2025-08-08 15:32

Athletes compete in the Women's Marathon event at the 14th National Games in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, on Sept 26, 2021.WEI XIAOHAO/CHINA DAILY

　　The popularization of national fitness is an important sign of a country's modernization level. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the Party with Xi Jinping at its core has attached great importance to building a sports power, elevating national fitness to a national strategy, and promoting the deep integration of national fitness and national health.

　　From the bustling Beijing Marathon, where thousands participate, to the spontaneous health runs organized in rural fields; from urban white-collar workers jogging through mountain trails to schoolchildren enjoying physical education classes. Through the lens, runners of different ages and professions sweat it out, challenging themselves on smart tracks and relishing the joy of movement.

　　Guided by the "Healthy China 2030" and "The Year of Weight Management" campaigns, marathons have become the new calling card for showcasing urban images. The deep integration of technology and sports has made national fitness smarter and more scientific.

　　The rise of the running economy is activating new consumption dynamics — sports app users surpassing 300 million and sports tourism driving rural industry revitalization — all highlighting the upgrade in industry vitality driven by the demands of the people.