Abundant fitness facilities and rich resources allow local people to easily access fun fitness spots in Shandong province. [Photo/SdChina]

Upon entering the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–30), East China's Shandong province is making major strides in building a nationwide fitness system with accessible facilities, grassroots events, and scientific guidance.

As of the end of April, Shandong had 308,100 sports venues, with per capita sports space reaching 3.04 square meters. The "15-minute fitness circle" initiative is complete in urban residential areas, with nearly all administrative villages covered. In cities such as Heze, Rizhao, and Binzhou, residents can reach a fitness spot within just a 10-minute walk.

The province has also creatively reused spaces like an old power plant in Zibo for sports, and turned idle plots into "pocket parks" in Heze, meeting local demand for exercise spots.

The Qilu Super League ignites summer days in Shandong. [Photo/SdChina]

Meanwhile, grassroots events are booming. Popular competitions such as the Qilu Super League, "Cun BA" (village basketball game), and stair-climbing races have drawn widespread participation. They've become community events that bring and bind people together.

Shandong is also a leader in integrating sports with health. The province now has 270,000 social sports instructors and has launched a pilot program to combine traditional Chinese medicine with exercise. 

As of now, more than 12 million people have been screened through a spinal health initiative which helps prevent scoliosis. The initiative is now a key public service.

The province is also promoting culturally themed fitness, blending traditional exercises like "six arts" tai chi with other local heritage to make sports more meaningful and accessible.