Chinese seniors embrace quirky workouts – crocodile crawl, tree-bumping for longevity

By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-03-20 06:11:40 | Updated at 2025-03-20 15:38:47 9 hours ago

Pursuing longevity is the aspiration of many, particularly as we advance into the later stages of life. For seniors in China who have entered their golden years, conventional exercise routines may not suffice in fulfilling their quest for a robust and healthy body.

As a result, many adventurous individuals have taken to inventing unconventional workouts to foster physical well-being and mental clarity, capturing the public’s attention over recent years.

The Post delves into some of the most unusual exercises popularised by senior citizens across China.

Crawl like a crocodile

This unique practice is frequently observed in the eastern Jiangsu province and central Hunan province, where dozens, and sometimes even hundreds, of individuals line up to crawl like crocodiles along jogging tracks and open plazas.

 Weibo

Proponents of crocodile crawling claim that this activity improves their health and alleviates discomfort associated with herniated discs. Photo: Weibo

Participants, typically in their 50s and 60s, often don matching uniforms and chant rhythmic slogans. Many who encounter these energetic “crocodile groups” express admiration for the vitality exhibited by these aunts and uncles, as they move in unison at a surprisingly brisk pace.

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