Shifting stones on ice

Losing weight and keeping fit are popular pursuits in spring, as people want to prepare to look their best during the summer, when they won't be bundled up in clothes.

It's like an annual cycle－after losing weight in spring, and staying as slim as you can for summer, you indulge in hearty meals at the start of autumn. Starting from the first solar term of autumn, liqiu, or Beginning of Autumn, in early August, Chinese people have an annual culinary ritual called tieqiubiao, which involves eating more meat in preparation for the cold weather of winter.

In spring, outdoor activities and ballgames are popular ways to shed some calories and keep fit.

While the sunnier days will lure many outside, the 2022 Winter Olympics have stirred many people's interest in ice and snow sports. Indoor ice rinks and ski resorts allow you to enjoy the excitement and improve your skills all year around.

One of the sports that caught many people's attention during the Games was curling. But only after you've played it can you truly appreciate it.

It's like playing chess on ice－you have to choose the best options, making the best use of your stones and brooms. The aim is to place as many stones near the center of the target as you can, and, if you are playing competitively, trying to stop your opponents from doing the same.

The situation undergoes rapid changes as stones are slid into position or are employed to knock out or block the other team's stones.

Olympjoy International Curling Club is one of the few curling clubs open to the general public.

Besides hosting national and international curling competitions, the club is also a training center for student players from primary and middle schools and professional athletes.

"Thanks to the Games, our bookings early this year were almost full. I'm confident about the market because more ordinary Chinese have become interested in curling over the past two years," says Wang Dequan, marketing director of the club.

He says many have been tempted to try after watching the Games, and then fall in love with curling after playing it and learning more about the spirit of the sport.

He explains that in a standard match each curling rink has eight players, but for amateurs, the number can be about 10 to 16. A coach of the club teaches basic skills and strategies and acts as a referee.

It's suitable for a gathering of friends or several families. Many corporations also choose the club for team building.

"Teamwork counts in curling. It exercises both brain and body. Once the opponent slides a stone, you have to deal with emergency and think about your next move."

If you go

Please check the COVID-19 control and prevention policy of the scenic area and make a reservation in advance before travel.