The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has launched one of the most ambitious physical activity promotion programs in recent years. In partnership with the China Institute of Sport Science (CISS), the organization aims to reach 100 million people across China by the end of 2028 through a strategy that combines community sports, digital engagement, and initiatives designed to improve public health and well-being. The program is also part of the celebrations surrounding Olympic Day, which is observed worldwide every June 23.
The project comes at a time of significant public health challenges. Although China has experienced considerable growth in sports participation over recent decades, figures show that only 37.2% of the population engages in regular physical activity. The situation is even more concerning among young people, as 80% of adolescent boys and 85% of adolescent girls fail to meet the physical activity levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). In response, the IOC is working to bring sport closer to local communities and establish it as a daily tool for improving quality of life.
A Program That Connects Sport, Health, and Community Participation
The Community Sport and Health Cooperation Initiative in China was launched in January 2026 as a three-year program designed to strengthen collaboration between the sports and health sectors. Its main goal is to expand access to physical activity opportunities and encourage healthier lifestyles through a combination of in-person experiences and digital platforms. As part of this effort, the initiative aims to directly support 250,000 residents in transitioning from occasional participation to regular involvement in sports and physical activity within their communities.
One of the program’s key pillars is its network of 32 Community Sport and Health Centers located throughout the country. These centers provide inclusive, safe, and accessible activities for people of all ages while integrating technological tools that help participants discover new sports, track their progress, and remain connected to local programs. The initiative is inspired by the global “Let’s Move” campaign, which promotes movement as a simple and effective way to improve both physical health and emotional well-being.
Local Stories with Global Impact
The activities taking place in these community centers are already generating experiences that highlight the transformative power of sport. In Hangzhou, for example, a recent table tennis event brought together participants ranging from 9 to 75 years old in an environment designed to strengthen social connections and showcase the physical and mental benefits of staying active. The event also gave attendees the opportunity to interact with national team athletes, creating an inspiring and engaging experience for participants.
The testimonials of those involved demonstrate the impact such programs can have. Wang, a 12-year-old participant, described the experience as “fun and inspiring,” emphasizing the opportunity to meet new people and interact with elite athletes. Zhou, a 60-year-old local resident, noted that activities like this encourage more people to leave their homes, stay active, and remain involved in community sports. The Chinese program is part of a broader international strategy led by the IOC alongside the WHO and the organization PATH, which has already benefited more than four million people in countries such as Ghana, Tanzania, Nepal, Peru, and Vietnam, reinforcing sport’s role as a powerful tool for building healthier and more active communities.
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