Residents in Zaozhuang, Shandong province took part in various activities to mark the annual National Fitness Day on Aug 8, which was created as part of the country's efforts to improve people's health and well-being.

In recent years, Zaozhuang has built more facilities for sports activities and established an enhanced public service system for national fitness programs.

According to local officials, sports is an important means of improving people's health, meeting people's aspirations for a better life and facilitating well-rounded human development.

Children practice taekwondo in Shizhong district, Zaozhuang, Shandong province on Aug 8. The day marked the country's National Fitness Day. The theme of this year's activities was centered around the Olympics. [Photo/IC]

Children attend a fitness promotion activity at Xisha River Park in Shizhong district, Zaozhuang, Shandong province on Aug 8. [Photo/IC]

Children practice taekwondo to celebrate the National Fitness Day in Zaozhuang, Shandong province on Aug 8. [Photo/IC]

Local residents perform the "ribbon dragon" dance during the National Fitness Day celebration in Zaozhuang, Shandong province on Aug 8. [Photo/IC]

The National Fitness Day celebration activities promote a scientific and healthy lifestyle in public. More people have been participating in fitness activities in China during the pandemic. [Photo/IC]

The "ribbon dragon" dance is performed during the National Fitness Day celebration in Zaozhuang, Shandong province on Aug 8. [Photo/IC]