Once thought to be exercises mainly for older adults, traditional Chinese practices like Baduanjin and Tai Chi are now gaining popularity among younger generations. These ancient workouts are adding new variety to modern fitness routines.
Finding Focus Through Baduanjin
Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese aerobic exercise, can be seen practiced in many places—from airport lounges early in the morning to quiet forests, from city apartments to snowy mountain bases. Jiang Xi, a fashion designer born in the 1990s, has made Baduanjin a daily habit. She often shares videos of her practice on social media, where her calm and relaxed style has attracted many followers.
Jiang started learning Baduanjin three years ago. Her older brother, Jiang Nan, who graduated from the Wushu Department at Beijing Sport University, guided her. “I began posting videos just to keep myself motivated. I didn’t expect so many people to join me,” she said. Today, tens of thousands follow her simple and soothing videos.
Baduanjin has a history of more than 800 years. It has been popular with older adults for a long time. But recently, young people have also shown interest in traditional workouts like Baduanjin and Wuqinxi. Wuqinxi, or the “Five-Animal Exercises,” mimics the movements of a tiger, deer, bear, monkey, and bird.
On the video platform Bilibili, Baduanjin videos shared by the General Administration of Sport of China have been viewed over 10 million times.
“Baduanjin is easy to learn, low-cost, and does not need much space,” Jiang said. “It is more than exercise. It helps people focus on themselves and find balance.”
Tai Chi Becomes a Campus Favorite
At Peking University, Tai Chi is gaining strong support among students. Chai Yunlong, a physical education teacher and 2013 World Wushu Champion, leads Tai Chi classes. These classes fill up quickly every semester.
“Tai Chi helps young people build strength and improve their mood,” Chai said. “It calms the mind and supports emotional health.”
With his deep martial arts experience, Chai makes the classes interesting and easy to follow. He also teaches health exercises and self-defense skills. “Students learn practical skills through Tai Chi that stay with them for life,” he added.
Su Yu, an undergraduate student, said, “Before taking Chai’s class, I didn’t know how much Tai Chi had to offer.”
Tai Chi is part of campus life at Peking University. It is included in required courses, workshops, and summer programs for international students. Student clubs, competitions, and sports events make the experience lively and engaging.
Wang Jiahang, a PhD student, took Tai Chi classes four years ago and still values them today. “Tai Chi is not just about physical movement. It teaches discipline and reflects important cultural values like balance and overcoming strength with gentleness,” he said.
