Tai chi festival honors tradition
Print Edition
THE first Shanghai Tai Chi Cultural Festival was held recently in Minhang, acknowledging the growing popularity of the ancient exercise, combat and fitness regime.
The Xinhong Community Tai Chi Team won the Best Teamwork Award in a competition at the festival.
Since January, more than 320 tai chi teams have been formed in the district, attracting around 20,000 people, according to the district government.
“Everybody knows about tai chi, but not everyone practices it,” said Zhu Fengqin, leader of the Xinhong team. “However, in the past few months, interest in sports and exercise seems to be taking the district by storm.”
Liu Shijie is a well-known tai chi teacher in Minhang. A decade ago, he quit his job at a state-owned company and began teaching and promoting tai chi. Now his “students” include senior citizens, white-collar workers and business owners.
“In China, many people believe that tai chi is only for seniors,” said Liu. “Maybe that’s because all the tai chi masters we see in the media are white-bearded old men.”
“But that stereotyping is misguided. Tai chi can benefit everyone in relieving pressure and building fitness, which city people need the most,” he added.
The district is actively encouraging residents to get more exercise. It is including exercise stations, outdoor sports venues and walking trails in greenbelt projects.
Many of the venues were built after the original illegal constructions were removed.
“In the past, we had only a seniors’ activity room in the village,” said Cai Meihua, a resident of Xupu Village. “And seniors had to queue to use the venue. Now we have a new park nearby, with complete fitness facilities. It’s easier for people to gather and do tai chi.”
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