Smart fitness equipment makes exercise more fun, convenient in NW China city

The 75-year-old Liu Qiang takes out his mobile phone and connects its Bluetooth with that of a pavilion that locals use for exercise. After his favorite song came out from the loudspeaker on the roof, he begins his daily walk at Zhongshan Park in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

"Everyday at around 11 a.m. I come to this park to do exercise. In the past I have to take along a hi-fi, now there is no need to do that," said Hu.

At the same time, another man is recharging his radio through the power socket in the pavilion.

According to officials of the Zhongshan Park, this "Fitness Pavilion" is the first smart fitness route in this city and contains four pieces of equipment, and was set up two weeks ago.

Electricity for the pavilion is supplied by solar energy. Those who don't know how to use the equipment can scan the QR code posted on it, and then a video would pop up with instructions.

Not far away from this site, another set of smart fitness equipment attracts many elderly people doing exercise despite the cold weather. There are more than 20 pieces of fitness equipment, including a field on which people can both play football and basketball.

Guan Zongchang, director of the Equipment Maintenance Center of Yinchuan Sports Tourism Bureau, said the government will set up more smart fitness equipment in the parks as well as in some communities in the future to promote exercise among citizens.

"Smart fitness equipment will make exercise more comfortable and more scientific, people will surely like it. We hope citizens can use this equipment properly," he said.