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  • Writer's pictureVictor Nwoko

China Exercise fanatic, 70, Impresses with Workout Regimen


A 70-year-old grandfather in China defies age with his passion for fitness and mountain climbing, boasting the physique and agility of someone half his age.


Zou Heping, hailing from Chongqing city in southwest China, considers the nearby Gele Mountain his personal outdoor gymnasium. Rising 678 meters (2,224 ft) above sea level, this mountain serves as a hub for sports and fitness enthusiasts, equipped with fitness facilities, parks, and scenic hiking trails.


Zou's daily regimen is nothing short of impressive, encompassing weighted pull-ups, rope or pole climbing, handstands, and the highlight of it all, conquering the mountain itself. With over 2,500 steps leading from its base to the summit, he spends an hour ascending and 50 minutes descending.



Innovative climbing techniques like frog-jumping uphill and alligator-style crawling downhill are Zou's signature moves, aimed not just at conquering the terrain but also at preserving joint health and enhancing limb coordination.


Zou's fitness journey commenced in 1979 when he recognized the value of running through a magazine article. Since then, he has diligently maintained a routine of uphill running, a practice spanning 45 years. In the early days, he would rise at 5:30 am, lugging a 20kg (44lbs) water load uphill before commencing his workday at 8 am. Presently, he runs daily, regardless of weather conditions, often opting for a topless, barefoot approach.

Despite his age, Zou sports a head of black hair and boasts six-pack abs, a testament to his unwavering commitment to health and fitness. His secret? Zou attributes his youthful vigor to a life centered around running and consistent exercise, coupled with abstaining from alcohol and cigarettes for four decades and prioritizing sufficient rest.


Zou's remarkable story has captivated audiences across mainland social media, with many expressing awe and admiration for his superhuman feats and highlighting the timeless adage that age is never a barrier to achieving physical excellence.



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