As the citywide fitness program gains steam in Nanyang, an increasing number of elderly are going to local sports centers and parks to get in shape.

Residents of both urban and rural areas have benefited from sports facilities and stadiums available throughout Nanyang's 147 communities and 4,532 villages.

To promote the physical and mental health of the elderly, 20 special committees have been established by the Nanyang Veteran's Sports Association, which provides great opportunities for members to join up for activities such as tai chi, yangge dances, and diabolo.

The city has a large number of elderly interested in sports, some of which are professional senior athletes. A special committee for qigong, a breathing and health exercise, has won first place three times and second place four times in a national competition.

Last year was a busy year for sports enthusiasts, as a variety of national sporting events were held for the elderly, including hiking and tai chi events. The city's elderly showed considerable enthusiasm and took part in all the events.

Wang Jilian, vice executive chairman of the city veteran's sports association, said it's great that the elderly can enjoy retirement by cultivating hobbies, such as exercising, with like-minded people.

Senior citizens in sports uniforms play diabolo, or Chinese yo-yo, in a playground in Nanyang, Henan province. [Photo by Zhang Jinchao/ epaper.01ny.cn]