China's week-long National Day Holiday is giving emerging sports like climbing and diving an added boost, as young people seek new experiences pass the time during the break.
At a rock climbing gym in southwest China's Chengdu, an influx of new climbers has kept the staff busy. According to Gao Chenfei, a coach at the gym, rock climbing may look intimidating, but getting started is easier than it seems.
"After the first introductory class, beginners can usually complete some basic routes while staying safe. Climbing is a sport where you can really feel yourself improving. Reaching the top gives you a real sense of achievement. I think that's one of the biggest things that attracts young people," said Gao.
For many young climbers, the draw is about more than just the workout. At a reasonable cost, they get a chance to challenge themselves, feel a sense of achievement and, perhaps most importantly, make new friends.
"I've been doing this for about six months. Climbing is about moving upward, so it gives me a very positive and optimistic feeling. And you meet a lot of like-minded people along the way," said a customer.
If climbing is about moving up, diving is about moving down and exploring a whole new world. For many diving enthusiasts, a long holiday is also an ideal time to train and get certified.
"I first saw the sport online and thought it looked really cool. It helps me relax and learn how to control my body," said a client at a freediving gym in Chengdu.
Whether scaling new heights or exploring the depths, these emerging sports are providing China's youth with an opportunity to foster personal achievement, mental well-being, and new friendships.
Chinese young people embrace trendy new sports during National Day holiday
