Xiangyang Daily (Wang Jingjing, the All-media Journalist, and Wang Lingwei, the Correspondent) Recently, the General Administration of Sport of China announced commendable news. Fancheng District in Xiangyang, Hubei Province, has been awarded the title of “2021-2024 Exemplary Organization of National Mass Sports” in recognition of its exceptional efforts and remarkable achievements in promoting mass sports.

In recent years, with the objective of “promoting sports and enhancing public physical fitness,” the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Fancheng District has consistently pursued innovation and development. This initiative has led to a distinctive path for sports development that leverages regional characteristics and advantages. The bureau has been recognized with several honors, including being designated as a “pilot construction site for the integration of sports and education in Hubei Province” and receiving accolades as an “outstanding unit in citywide sports work during the 16th Games of Hubei Province.” As the national fitness movement continues to gain momentum, the vibrancy of sports is flourishing across this region.

Fancheng District prioritizes facilities to establish a “15-Minute Fitness Circle.” It is actively implementing the project to enhance national fitness facilities, leading to an increasingly comprehensive network of public fitness facilities at the district, street (town), and community (village) levels. On the one hand, numerous parks and public fitness venues have been constructed and upgraded to high standards. On the other hand, by strategically utilizing every corner of Xiangyang, every opportunity is seized to develop community fitness plazas and install fitness pathways. As of now, the per capita area of sports venues in the entire region has increased significantly, while the coverage of the “15-Minute Fitness Circle” in both urban and rural areas continues to expand. This initiative effectively addresses the diverse and convenient fitness needs of the residents.

Fancheng District leads the initiatives and fosters a robust environment for national fitness. It is committed to spearheading brand events while building upon regular activities. It meticulously organizes and plans a diverse range of engaging national fitness programs, including the “riding in Fancheng” cycling challenge, community sports competitions, and staff sports festivals, all of which are gaining increasing influence.

Fancheng District promotes integrated development to expand new avenues for sports to benefit the community. It is actively exploring an integrated development model of “sports+” to enhance both the breadth and depth of mass sports participation. It aims to promote the integration of sports and education, fostering a coordinated approach between cultural learning and physical exercise for young people, strengthening the foundation of youth health.