Top athletes welcome China's outbreak of running fever

Chinese people's enthusiasm for sports along with Shanghai's efforts to build a global sports metropolis have not only impressed athletes at home and abroad, but also presented gigantic opportunities for global sportswear corporations.

"People in China, especially in Shanghai, really understand the value of exercise," said former marathon world record holder Haile Gebrselassie, speaking at a racing shoe unveiling event held by German sportswear company Adidas in Shanghai on Monday. "It's not just about staying fit; it's about growing stronger mentally, physically, and even in business and life". 

The two-time Olympic gold medalist and four-time world champion from Ethiopia said he was impressed by Shanghai's enthusiastic embrace of running culture.

"Look at the Shanghai Half Marathon—so many people take part in such a well-organized event. And it's not just about having a race in a big city; it's about creating a habit, a way of life. The Shanghai Marathon is becoming a model event, and I'm not surprised to hear it has reached Platinum level. After all, it's Shanghai, a major city where people are eager to stay active," he added. "And really, it doesn't matter where you are, exercise is something you can do anywhere. Whether it's at home, outside, or even indoors, what matters is that you move. That's the best thing for the people of China."

Chinese long distance runner Xu Shuangshuang said she too was impressed by the superb atmosphere in Shanghai.

"Once I was running in Shanghai's Century Park. I ran in reverse on purpose, and was surprised to find that there were runners in almost every corner, every section where I ran," she said. "I really like this atmosphere, and I would love to go for a run with someone at the same pace as me." 

Gebrselassie noted that marathon running has become a global trend in recent years.

"Particularly here in China, it has evolved into a lifestyle," he said. "While it's difficult to pinpoint exactly why it has gained such popularity, I believe it reflects a broader shift in how people approach health and fitness."

"Our bodies, too, are made for motion. This is why people in China and all over the world are increasingly recognizing the importance of exercise. Without physical activity, there is no real health, and ultimately, no life."

According to Gebrselassie, technology could enhance human performance and overall health, which is deeply connected to lifestyle and the way people train.

"I've had the privilege of running with Adidas for the past 33 years, and I still have shoes from every era — the 90s, the 2000s, and now the 2020s," he added. "The evolution in technology is remarkable. The shoes we have today contribute at least 15 percent to an athlete's overall performance."

"Back in 2008, I ran a marathon in 2:03:59 with the technology available at the time. But if I had been wearing today's shoes back then, I'm certain my time would be under two hours—seriously. I know my training, and I know the difference that cutting-edge footwear makes."

Fully aware of the market potential and rapid development in China, German sportswear company Adidas launched its latest series of racing shoe, or Adizero Adios pro 4, in Shanghai on Monday.

"In addition to the common requirements including being comfortable, enhancing speed of running with lighter weight of the shoes, we've also noticed differentiated requirements of Chinese consumers in terms of function, color and design," said Alberto Uncini Manganelli, general manager of Adidas running and credibility sports.

"The China market developed at extremely fast speed in the past few years, which is also the reason why we need to pay more attention, investment more to support the strong growth of the China market."

Li Junfeng contributed to this story.

wang_ying@chinadaily.com.cn