This Spring (2025), I went to Olympic Training Center in Beijing to learn from Olympic Gold Medalists’ coaches, trainers and therapists.
Approximately 40 individuals from across China attended the Sports Performance and Conditioning Camp. These attendees primarily consisted of former athletes transitioning into coaching, personal training, or related fields. We had one professional MMA fighter, one a municipal SWAT team coach, some gym owners, and some who are simply enthusiasts.
These two are my roommates at the camp. The young man in the middle is an exercise enthusiast coming to the camp for self-improvement. The big guy on the right is a former bodybuilder and now gym owner of one of the largest gym in Nantong, Jiangsu Province.
His gym span approximately 40,000 sqft, which is nearly an acre. I was very surprised by the size. He said that his rent is around $0.1 USD per square foot a surprisingly low rate he attributed to the overcapacity of commercial real estate in China.
His goal for this camp is to gain more knowledge about Sport Conditioning an Performance so he can share with the personal trainers at his gym
My other roommate is an Uyghur, an ethnic minority from Urumqi, Xinjiang Province. He owns an indoor soccer field that spans approximately 2 acres. He mentioned his rent is around $0.08 USD per square foot
This low cost reflects the overcapacity of commercial real estate in China created an interesting trend , where many traditionally outdoor businesses have capitalized on the situation by moving their operations indoors. In Beijing malls, I’ve seen indoor skiing, surfing, and skateboard parks.
At the Olympic Training Center, I was inspired by a culture that embodies a relentless pursuit of excellence, where self-improvement is a badge of honor and collective enthusiasm is palpable. Being surrounded by individuals who radiate positivity and dedication was a truly energizing experience!
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