CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- Whenever the night falls, you can see groups of residents do sports or dance in Jinyang Square in Shapingba District. A well-balanced figure is eye-catching in the crowd. Her well-proportioned figure and elegant movements make her the brightest ‘star’ in the square. She is the leader of the Jinyang Fitness Team – Hong Yan.

A “square dancer” from the gym

As the night fell, Jinyang Square in Shapingba District rang with pleasant music, cheers, and laughter. Men and women of all ages gathered here to learn new dance moves and communicate with each other happily.

Dressed in a sports suit, Hong Yan has been the leader of the fitness team for nearly ten years. She was a full-time mother before she came into contact with acrobatic dancing. After her child studied at middle school, she got more free time and went to the gym for sports occasionally. But acrobatic dance was not what her life was about at that time.

Ten years ago, when Hong Yan passed by Jinyang Square, she was attracted by the enthusiastic atmosphere of the fitness team. Therefore, she joined them and gradually became the most outstanding dancer in the team. She was then elected as the leading dancer.

It’s difficult to associate Hong Yan with a 50-year-old lady, as she has tight muscles and skin. "When I joked to people that I'm 37 or 18, no one doubted it," she laughed. The youthful vigor of her is attributed to the one-hour exercise she insists on every day.

A seemingly thin figure in the team dances most vigorously. He is Mr. He, 66 years old. In addition to one hour of exercise every day, he also helps Hong Yan arrange lighting, audio, and other equipment. Mr. He was not interested in square dancing at first. He just danced to keep fit. “I feel good whenever I come here. I become healthier and see a doctor less. My family encourages me to dance, and I am fond of it now.”

Many young people are attracted by square dancing. Yan, a college graduate, also joined them. “There are few opportunities for college students to have access to outdoor sports. I feel that the leading dancer is sunny. As I prefer the atmosphere here, I join them uncontrollably.” (Photographed by Yang Xinyu and Hu Xinyue) 

(Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)