When many expats first arrive in China, they often think they can improve various aspects of their lives, with joining a gym being a common initial step. Interacting with fellow gym-goers in China can feel like a completely different experience. Whether you are a seasoned gym member or a newbie, chances are you’ve come across one of these gym archetypes! Or perhaps you see yourself in one of them…
1. The "Noodle Guilt" Transformation
There's always that one expat in a Chinese gym who constantly laments their weight gain since arriving. Sure, we understand how tempting those Xinjiang noodles can be at 11 PM, but there's a cost to indulge. This type of person joins the gym in hopes of reversing the effects of all those noodles.
2. The Overly Friendly Gym Pal
For the overly friendly gym pal, the language barrier is insignificant. They enter the gym and greet everyone, receiving minimal response but feeling connected nonetheless. Other gym-goers give them a thumbs up as they stroll by; they’ll quickly spot for you or offer advice and often have extra protein bars to share with fellow fitness enthusiasts. They enjoy signing up for group HIIT classes and are usually the first to join outdoor runs when it’s sunny. If these individuals were dogs, they would undoubtedly be golden retrievers.
3. The WeChat Deal Hunter
This type of gym-goer is your resource for all the best gym deals. They don’t work out much, but they excel at finding great packages and add-ons. They belong to every WeChat group that advertises any fitness membership and can often be seen scouting for deals at Supermonkey and other pay-as-you-go gyms. The downside of WeChat warriors is that they would likely have six-pack abs if they directed as much effort into exercising as they do into finding discounts.
4. The Yoga Wanderer
This individual is a free spirit, often found outside the fray of typical gym-goers. They usually carry a brightly colored yoga mat and seek a serene escape from the usual gym bustle. Members of every yoga studio WeChat group, they eagerly share the numerous benefits of yoga whenever given the opportunity.
5. The Douyin Fashionista
This person prioritizes appearance over efforts. You’ll catch them in upscale gyms in the CBD, clad in coordinated Lululemon attire with a full face of makeup. They are equipped with a tripod, recording every movement. Strangely, these individuals never seem to break a sweat, always looking immaculate in the latest gym fashion and cute accessories.
6. The Quiet Weightlifter
There’s often one gym-goer who walks in, lifts weights like it's nothing, and then leaves without a word. They are rarely seen, speak to no one, and typically don a loose T-shirt and gray pants. However, on a less crowded day, you might be fortunate enough to witness them shed their shirt to show off their gains, quickly becoming the object of admiration for everyone lucky enough to see.
7. The Caffeinated Gym Junkie
Let’s not overlook those whose energy is fueled by caffeine. They enter with a large cup of Luckin or Starbucks and manage their way through intense workouts while sipping. Sporting noise-canceling headphones, they remain focused on their weights without distraction.
Have you come across any of these gym archetypes? Or does one resonate a bit too closely with you? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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Images: Unsplash, Canva
Regardless of whether you are a seasoned gym-goer or have only visited a few times, there's a good chance you’ve come across one of these gym archetypes in person!