What was once a centerpiece of the 2008 Beijing Olympics has become the heartbeat of China's urban fitness culture. The Olympic Forest Park, spanning 680 hectares of lakes, gardens, and forest trails, now draws thousands of runners weekly who flock to its 10km professional track and winding nature paths.
'This park saved my mental health during lockdowns,' says Li Wei, a 28-year-old software developer who runs here daily. 'The mix of skyline views and wetlands makes every lap feel new.' Data shows over 15,000 visitors daily, with runners comprising 40% of morning traffic according to park authorities.
The space exemplifies China's push for ecological urban development, using native plant species to filter air in one of Beijing's most polluted districts. Recent upgrades include solar-powered hydration stations and AI-assisted crowd management systems – blending tech innovation with environmental stewardship.
For digital nomad Maria Gonzalez from Mexico, the park represents cross-cultural connection: 'I've made friends from five continents here. We don't speak the same language, but we share kilometers.'
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
