Revolutionizing senior health with customized fitness

In a residential building in Beijing, a 77-year-old man is diligently completing a set of squats under the guidance of his trainer, Li Xuan. This is his 40th fitness session, each lasting nearly two hours.

This service is provided by Zhaoyang Fitness, a studio founded by 30-year-old Li and 34-year-old physical therapist Gao Ruijun, specifically designed to cater to older adults.

Zhaoyang Fitness takes a fresh approach to senior wellness, offering more than the typical tai chi or stretching routines commonly seen in parks or public squares. It also stands apart from traditional gyms.

"Unlike many gyms, which focus on equipment, we emphasize adjusting breathing and muscle activation patterns as the foundation of fitness," Li explained. "We also aim to prevent common age-related conditions like joint issues and osteoporosis."

Since opening last year, the studio has helped nearly 100 clients lead healthier, more active lives.

Catering to individuals aged 55 and above, Zhaoyang Fitness provides both in-studio classes and home visits, making fitness more accessible for those who may feel uncomfortable or unable to visit a gym.

The idea of opening a fitness studio tailored to seniors first came to Li in 2022, after an injury during exercise forced him to leave his job in e-commerce. While recovering at home, he joined his family's domestic services business, where he became increasingly aware of the growing need for health and rehabilitation services for seniors.

Although Li didn't initially have a professional background in fitness, he earned a certification from the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) after starting the business and plans to further his studies at Beijing Sport University.

Gao, with 13 years of expertise in physical rehabilitation, particularly with middle-aged and senior clients, brings valuable expertise to the team.

Beyond physical health

Before beginning any training, each new client undergoes a thorough assessment to evaluate their overall health — covering the nervous system, blood circulation, and joint flexibility. The process helps identify not only physical limitations but also psychological concerns.

"Many seniors worry that strength training could lead to injuries or worsen their conditions," Gao said. "So we start with gentle, personalized exercises to help them build confidence."

For example, when designing a fitness plan for a 69-year-old woman, Gao noticed significant joint degeneration. Instead of focusing on body shaping, he customized the program aimed at activating her muscles, improving mobility, and easing discomfort.

Beyond training, the young staff at Zhaoyang also help older clients deal with everyday challenges brought on by the digital age, which can sometimes be overwhelming for them.

Li recalled helping an elderly couple return an online purchase and assisting another senior in learning how to use a navigation app.

"For me, being a coach is about more than guiding exercises — I see myself as a friend," he said. "True companionship is built on mutual respect and honest communication."

He also noted that many older people are reluctant to share their worries with their children and tend to shoulder their health problems alone. Coaches, however, can often bridge that gap by offering valuable feedback on both a client's physical and emotional well-being.

"We hope to encourage better interaction between the two generations," Li said.

Gao remembered an 88-year-old woman who had difficulty walking due to poor leg strength. After being hospitalized for a month in early 2024, she developed degenerative patellar dislocation, leaving her unable to stand or bend her legs. Her goal was simple: to regain independence and avoid being a "burden", as she put it. After more than 10 sessions, she was able to stand on her own.

"When she finally stood up, tears filled her eyes. It was an incredibly emotional moment," Gao said. "Experiences like that constantly show me how meaningful my work truly is."

The studio primarily attracts clients through word of mouth and social media promotion. Li is also looking to expand partnerships with senior care facilities in Beijing and gyms in other cities.

"Many people believe the 'silver market' — the market catering to older adults — is booming, but as a professional in this field, I've noticed that real growth is mainly happening in the entertainment sector," Li said, reflecting on the obstacles his studio faces. "Exercise can be difficult, so it's usually the children who bring their parents in, rather than the elderly seeking it out themselves."

Despite the challenges of entrepreneurship, working with older clients has offered Li valuable life lessons.

"Young people today are always in a hurry," Li said. "But these friends from older generations often remind me that not everything in life is as urgent as it seems. Take things slow, and time will give you the answers."