Tai chi competition lights up Yangzhou

The 2018 Taijiquan International Invitation Competition opens at Yangzhou Polytechnic College on Oct 13. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The two-day 2018 Taijiquan International Invitation Competition opened at Yangzhou Polytechnic College on Oct 13, attracting 434 athletes from 74 countries and regions including China, Pakistan and Ghana.

Taijiquan, also known as tai chi, is a traditional Chinese martial art practiced for health benefits.

Tian Jinlong, one of the guests invited to the event, said many people thought tai chi only has the effect of improving health, yet it can also be practiced in competition.

With public participation in outdoor activities on the rise, Tai chi is no longer seen just as an exercise for the elderly. A competition for children was additionally set up and the youngest participant was only five years old.

"I don't think tai chi has an age limit, it can not only help people stay healthy but also help you become a better person. My family supports me a lot during my study of it," said Luo Yi, a 13-year-old practiser of tai chi.