Exercise, determination transform woman's physique

Twenty-four-year-old Wei Xiaoting weighs 75 kilograms, the same as two years ago. But a comparison of her physique between now and then might tell a different story.

After going through a series of frustrations in life – being isolated by peers, dumped by a boyfriend and teased by others - even strangers, the native of Nanning, capital of South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, made up her mind to "get rid of her old image" in 2017.

But instead of going on a diet like many might do, she opted for working out and bodybuilding. Having spent an average of 90 minutes in the gym every day over the past two years, Wei has not only built her formerly plump body into a sculpture-like figure, but also gained a variety of championships at bodybuilding competitions across the country.

She also stood out at a national bikini contest recently and inspired many of her peers to start working out.

"It's like going through hell," Wei said, recalling the days when she first started exercising.

As working out has become a part of her daily routine, she said she is more confident and happier now.