Life of Guangzhou - Female Doctors Fight to Relieve Stress

Duanbing is become increasingly popular with doctors and graduate students at Jinan University. (Guangzhou Daily)

A type of combat sport called Duanbing is become increasingly popular with doctors and graduate students at Jinan University, where association members engage in intensive training every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday night. Many female doctors are getting in on the action, claiming the hot new activity is exciting and fun – even when they are getting hit.

Originated from ancient fencing

The president of the Duangbing association, Doctor Geng, says that more than half of the 50 members are doctors and postgraduates, 15 of which are females.

Following a warm-up, all members are divided into two teams who line up face to face and prepare to fight. Upon hearing the order “Action!” from the president, the students attack with sword-like weapons, lunging and striking.

"It is painful and pleasurable," says Meng, a gentle and quiet girl who remains excited even as she receives several blows. "The concentration it takes to fight is truly relaxing, and looking for opportunities to attack while dodging helps me become more flexible."

A national sport

Slim-figured Xiong praises Duanbing enthusiastically, which she believes improves her both spiritually and intellectually. She says, "You must act fast. Most physical training originates from abroad, while Duanbing is a sport with our nation's style."

(By Ji Lanrong, Stephen Roach)