China
22:12, 19-Jul-2017
Fast walking frenzy in China raises safety concerns
[]
Share
Copied
Square dancing, the favorite pastime of many Chinese women, has just been listed as one of the official events of this year’s 13th Chinese National Games.
Now, people, particularly senior citizens, may have just found a new keep-fit activity: fast walking.
With loud music and slogans, dozens of senior citizens take to city streets in this easy and free after-dinner exercise.
But healthy doesn’t necessarily mean safe. Just last week, a taxi crashed into a group, causing one death and two injuries. Police say both the driver and the group bear responsibility, for the walkers were in the vehicle lanes.
CGTN’s Jiang Shaoyi reported that it’s not the first time seniors have been criticized for taking over public spaces. The square dancing grannies have long been involved in disputes over noise and venues. City planners need to do more to ensure exercise doesn’t give anyone fits.