Online exercise puts spring in people’s steps

She has reduced her waistline and improved her figure a little, so she can wear clothes she had outgrown after gaining some weight when she stayed at home as a result of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

"At my age, it's essential to live a happy, healthy and full life. I keep myself busy with colorful activities such as having afternoon tea with friends, and the must-do is my exercise session," she said.

Zhang Wei, who is in charge of HiLefit's home exercise business, said: "The COVID-19 epidemic has boosted the online exercise business in China and raised people's awareness of health. In addition to offline gyms, our brand also provides diverse online courses of short videos and livestreams for members."

He said many people just want to become more physically active rather than to keep fit. As do seniors, who may feel at a loss about how to exercise when they stay at home.

"Early this year, we unveiled our online fitness service specially for the 'gray generation', based on market demand and potential. Like Qiu, users of such online services are those aged from 55 to 65, who have retired. A lower intensity of scientific workout is suitable for them," he said.

According to Zhang the services provide seniors with products that center on their health-for example, teaching workouts that will strengthen the knees. "The crunch" is popular among younger exercisers, but it's not suitable for older people because improper movements may hurt the waist.

He said online fitness content is growing greatly across the whole market, and it is important to help exercisers form the habit of working out, even without the guidance of livestreams.